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, Bishop Attack
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 O-O 5. Bd3
Description: In this variation, White develops the dark-squared bishop to d3, reinforcing control over the e4 square and preparing for a solid but flexible setup. The move 5.Bd3 is characteristic for supporting a strong central presence while maintaining options for kingside development and potential pawn breaks later in the game.
Characteristic of the Move: The bishop placement on d3 is aimed at controlling key central squares and preparing for potential e4 advances, but it also signals a more positional and restrained approach compared to more aggressive lines with Nf3 or Qc2.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this setup is more positional and somewhat defensive, focusing on solid development and central control rather than immediate attacks. Black, having completed kingside castling, aims to challenge White’s center and exploit the pin on the knight at c3 if possible, leading to balanced play with counterattacking chances.
Center Control: Yes, this opening does focus on controlling the center. White supports the central d4 pawn and prepares to contest e4, while Black challenges the center indirectly through pressure on the c3 knight and flexible pawn breaks.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Bishop Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #25 white
You can also discover how top players used Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Bishop Attack to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.