Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation begins with 1.b3, a rarely played move that catches the opponent off guard. This opening is named after the Danish Grandmaster Bent Larsen and is a variant of the Nimzo-Larsen Attack. The idea behind this opening is to delay the development of the c1-bishop, thereby avoiding symmetrical pawn structures that can arise in other openings.

One of the main strengths of this opening is that it allows the player to dictate the pace and style of the game, leaving the opponent without a clear plan. It's also a great choice for aggressive players as it often leads to open and tactical positions. However, the Indian Variation makes white's play less flexible and can lead to a cramped position if not played accurately.

In sum, the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation is a difficult opening to master due to its unconventional move order and requires a great deal of patience and preparation. Nonetheless, it's a great weapon for those looking to surprise their opponents and steer the game into their preferred style of play.

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation, move by move

b3

-0.18

In the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation, white starts with the move b3. This move is known as the Nimzo-Larsen Attack, named after two players who used this opening as a surprise weapon in the 1970s. The idea behind this move is to control the important squares on the diagonal a1-h8 and prepare for a kingside or queenside attack. By playing b3, white is not committing to any particular pawn structure and is keeping the game flexible. With this move, white is also inviting the black knight to move to f6, which is the most common response in this opening.

Play on the board

Nf6

+0.33

After the move 1. b3, Black often responds with 1...Nf6. This move is a common response to flank openings and develops the knight while controlling the center. By placing the knight on f6, Black is preparing to castle and putting pressure on white's central pawn on e4. Moreover, the knight on f6 can be used later to attack white's pawn on d4 or to control the e5 square. This move is also played to prevent any potential aggression from white with moves like e4 or d4. In sum, Black plays Nf6 to gain central control and prepare for future tactical possibilities.

Play on the board

How to play the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation starts with 1.b3, followed by 2.Bb2 to control the a1-h8 diagonal and allow the bishop to develop to b2. Next, white will focus on developing pieces to control the center. The move order may vary, but it's important to avoid moving the c1-bishop too early and falling into symmetrical pawn structures.

White can often play aggressively on the queenside with moves like a4 and b4, putting pressure on black's position. However, be careful not to overextend too early and create weaknesses. With careful play, white can exploit black's potential weaknesses and gain an edge.

How to counter the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation can be countered by playing to control the center with moves like d5 or e5. Black should avoid symmetrical pawn structures and try to restrict white's bishop on b2 by controlling the c4 square. If white plays aggressively on the queenside with a4 and b4, black can respond with moves like b6 and a6 to gain space and discourage further expansion.

Black should be cautious not to overextend and create weaknesses in their position. Instead, focus on developing pieces and controlling the center to gain an advantage in the middle game.

Pawn structure in the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation can lead to a variety of pawn structures, but one common structure features an asymmetrical position where white's b-pawn and black's d-pawn are exchanged. This structure offers white a half-open b-file and a4-b5 breakthrough possibilities. Black, on the other hand, has a protected central pawn and the option of an eventual c5 break to put pressure on white's position.

Another possibility is a reversed Maróczy bind structure where white's pawns are on c4 and e4, and black's pawns are on d6 and f6. White can aim to control the d5 square and restrict black's pawn breaks while black should focus on controlling the e5 square and finding ways to break free. These pawn structures require careful planning and accurate play to find potential weaknesses and exploit them.

The papachess advice

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation can be a strong weapon in the hands of a prepared player looking to steer the game into their preferred style. It offers a degree of flexibility and can lead to open and tactical positions. However, the Indian Variation can be difficult to master, and careless play can lead to a cramped position.

White should be careful not to overextend their position while black can look to control the center and limit white's potential breakthroughs. The opening's uncommon move order can surprise opponents and provide an advantage. The resulting pawn structures require a strategic approach to gain an advantage.

In sum, Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation requires a level of patience, planning, and adaptability. It may not be the most popular option, but those willing to put in the effort in mastering it can achieve success. By understanding the position's strengths and weaknesses, players can gain the confidence to use it as a weapon in their arsenal of chess openings.