Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation is an exciting and innovative opening that begins with 1. b3 b5. It's a rare and unorthodox opening that aims to seize control over the b4 square, creating pressure on Black's position right from the start.

One of the strengths of this opening is that it's easy to learn, as it mainly revolves around simple moves that follow a clear plan. It can also surprise opponents who are not familiar with it, resulting in them making mistakes.

However, one of the downsides of this opening is that it can be difficult to play against strong opponents who are familiar with its ideas. They can easily develop their pieces and use the holes in White's position to their advantage.

In sum, Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation can be an effective weapon in the hands of a creative player who likes to keep their opponents on their toes. It's a bold and dynamic opening that can lead to a diverse range of positions, making it an exciting choice for players who seek out sharp and challenging positions.

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation, move by move

b3

-0.18

In the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation, White starts the game with 1. b3. This move is also known as the Nimzo-Larsen Attack and aims to control the center with the bishop on b2. The idea behind this move is to prepare an attack on Black's pawn structure and force them to defend with moves like d5 or e6. By playing b3, White also creates a potential escape square for their king on b2. This opening is flexible and can transpose into different variations.

Play on the board

b5

+0.79

After the move 1. b3, Black wants to play b5 to challenge White's control over the center and create counterplay on the queenside. By playing b5, Black also stops White's pawn on b3 from advancing and gaining more space. This pawn move can also be a prelude for developing the c8 bishop to b7, which will put pressure on the long diagonal. However, playing b5 too early can lead to weaknesses in the pawn structure and afford White with opportunities for counterplay.

Play on the board

How to play the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation begins with the move 1.b3 b5.

The idea behind this move is to control the squares c4 and d5.

The Polish Variation means that White will also play c4 and try to put pressure on the queenside.

White should develop their pieces rapidly to counter Black's development.

White must also be careful to avoid creating weaknesses in their position, which Black can exploit later on.

How to counter the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation can be a challenging opening to play against if you're not familiar with it.

The best way to counter it is to develop your pieces quickly and control the center, preventing White from gaining an advantage.

Black should aim to place their pawns on squares that can't be easily attacked by White's bishop on b2.

It's also important for Black to find good squares for their knights and to control the c4 square, as it's a crucial square in this opening.

If played correctly, Black will be able to neutralize White's pressure and gain a good position in the center of the board.

Pawn structure in the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation can lead to a diverse range of pawn structures.

White's pawn structure typically consists of pawns on b3, c4, d3, e3, and f2.

This pawn formation aims to control the light squares on the queenside and the center of the board.

Black's pawn structure, on the other hand, often includes pawns on b5, c6, d7, e6, and f7.

These pawns help Black establish control over the dark squares and to develop their pieces efficiently.

The papachess advice

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation is an exciting and unique opening that can provide dynamic positions on the chessboard. Although it can create pressure on Black from the start, it is also relatively easy for beginners to learn. However, more experienced players may find it difficult to play against well-prepared opponents. The pawn structure that arises from this opening can lead to many different types of positions and strategies for both sides. To be successful with Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Polish Variation, White must be flexible and adaptable, adjusting their plans according to their opponent's moves. With careful planning and play, this opening can provide a solid, creative, and winning approach to chess.