Chess Opening Theory/1. b3/1...d5

Classical variation A01 Nimzowitsch-Larsen attack 1...d5 · Classical variation Black's controls the centre and opens up the queenside bishop. This prevents White from playing e4 or Nc3, as the pawn will be taken or the knight kicked respectively. 2. Bb2 is the main move: developing the bishop to control the long diagonal and prevent Black from taking more space in the centre with ...e5. White often plans a set-up involving e3 and Nf3, though move orders are flexible. One idea is to challenge the d5-pawn with e3 & c4, supported by the king's bishop. In 1. b3 move order, compared to the 1. Nf3 move order, White has retained the option of set-ups involving f4. If White can't or doesn't wish to play e3, then g3 allows them to develop their king's bishop to the other flank. Theory table 2. Bb2 Nf6 3. e3 g6 4. c4 Bg7 5. cxd5 O-O Classical variation 2. ... Bg4 3. g3 c6 4. Bg2 Nd7 5. Nf3 Ngf6 6. O-O e6 References See also Nimzovich-Larsen Attack Eric Schiller 2002 2nd Unorthodox Chess Openings Cardoza 1-58042-072-9