This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.
Opening Name: Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 O-O
Description: The Nimzo-Indian Defense is a classical and highly respected opening for Black against 1.d4. In the Normal Variation, White plays 4.e3, aiming to solidify the center and prepare for harmonious development of the bishop and queen. Black's move 4...O-O completes kingside safety and maintains flexibility in the center and queenside.
Characteristic of 4...O-O: This is a standard developing move that prioritizes king safety. By castling early, Black ensures the king is secure while keeping options open for central pawn breaks (like ...d5 or ...c5) and piece activity.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black's perspective, this setup is balanced but leans toward a strategic, positional approach rather than immediate attacks. Black applies indirect pressure on White's center, particularly targeting the doubled c-pawns that may arise after exchanges on c3. White’s 4.e3 is somewhat defensive, aiming to solidify control of the center and maintain a strong pawn structure.
Center Control: Both sides contest the center carefully. White maintains a strong pawn presence with pawns on d4 and e3, while Black exercises pressure indirectly through piece play and potential pawn breaks. This opening does not involve an immediate direct attack on the center but focuses on strategic control and flexibility.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #9 white
You can also discover how top players used Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.