Réti Opening: Anglo-Slav Variation, Bled Variation

In the Réti Opening: Anglo-Slav Variation, Bled Variation, White begins with the move Nf3. This move has several purposes. Firstly, it controls the e5 square, preventing Black from advancing their pawn and gaining control of the center. Secondly, it allows the possibility of later developing the bishop to g5, putting pressure on Black's d5 pawn. Finally, it keeps White's options open and flexible, as the knight can potentially be rerouted to other squares depending on how the game develops. In sum, Nf3 is a solid and versatile move that sets the stage for a strategic and dynamic game.

In response to 1. Nf3, Black often chooses to play d5. This move aims to control the center and gain more space on the board. By advancing the d-pawn, Black also opens up lines for their queen and bishop, which may be useful in future moves. However, playing d5 can have the drawback of weakening the pawn structure, especially if White later plays e4 and Black is unable to respond with e6. Nonetheless, d5 is a standard response to 1. Nf3 that shows Black's intention to fight for control of the board from the outset.

After the moves 1. Nf3 d5, White often plays b3. This move prepares to develop the light-squared bishop to b2, where it will eye Black's weak points on the long diagonal. Additionally, b3 reinforces the pawn on c4, which supports White's control of the center and facilitates possible pawn breaks with d4. The move b3 also prepares for further development options, such as a knight move to b2 or c3. However, b3 does create a weakness on a3, which Black can potentially exploit in the future. In sum, b3 is a flexible move that enables White to harmoniously develop their pieces and get ready for the middle game.

In the Réti Opening: Anglo-Slav Variation, Bled Variation, Black often responds to 2. b3 with the move Nf6. By developing the knight, Black puts pressure on White's pawn on d4, as well as eyeing the e4 square. Moreover, Nf6 prepares for a potential pawn break with e5 or c5, which could further increase Black's control of the center. This move also allows for the bishop on c8 to be developed to b7, where it can pressure White's pawn on d4 and contribute to the control of the light squares. In sum, Nf6 is a natural and flexible move that aims to create advantageous positions for Black.

After the moves 1. Nf3 d5 2. b3 Nf6, White usually develops their bishop to b2. Bb2 is a flexible move that completes White's mini strategy of controlling the light squares and preparing to castle kingside. This move also indirectly pressures Black's pawn on d5 and can make it more difficult for Black to advance it in the future. Furthermore, Bb2 supports the pawn on c3 if White chooses to play d4 later, expanding their control of the center. Finally, Bb2 allows White to potentially trade the dark-squared bishops, which can make Black's defense of the king more difficult and create weaknesses in their pawn structure. In sum, Bb2 is an important move that helps White harmoniously develop their pieces and sets them up for a solid position in the middle game.

After the moves 1. Nf3 d5 2. b3 Nf6 3. Bb2, Black often responds with g6. This move prepares to develop the bishop to g7, where it will pressure White's pawn on d4 and control the long diagonal. Moreover, by playing g6, Black prevents White's knight on f3 from developing to g5 and attacking the weakened pawn on d5. This move also reinforces Black's control of the light squares and prevents White from using their light-squared bishop to attack the king directly. In addition, g6 can be followed by castling kingside, putting the king in a safer position. In sum, g6 is a solid move that helps Black develop their pieces and establish a sound position.

In the Réti Opening: Anglo-Slav Variation, Bled Variation, White often plays c4 after the moves 1. Nf3 d5 2. b3 Nf6 3. Bb2 g6. This move aims to seize more space in the center and limit Black's opportunities for pawn breaks. Additionally, c4 opens up a path for White's light-squared bishop to be developed to c2 or a2, where it can pressure Black's pawn on d5. The move c4 also prepares for possible pawn breaks with d4 or e4, which can increase White's control of the center and create more tactical opportunities. In sum, c4 is a flexible and dynamic move that enhances White's position and puts pressure on Black to find accurate responses.

After the moves 1. Nf3 d5 2. b3 Nf6 3. Bb2 g6 4. c4, Black often responds with c6. This move aims to support the pawn on d5 and create a strong pawn chain in the center. By playing c6, Black also prepares for a potential pawn break with dxc4, which could trade pawns and free up the position. Moreover, c6 prevents White's knight from jumping to d4 and aims to force it back to a less active square. The move c6 can also restrict the activity of White's dark-squared bishop, making it slightly harder to coordinate White's pieces. In sum, c6 is a solid move that reinforces Black's center and lays the groundwork for strategic possibilities in the middle game.