Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Bishop Attack, Classical Defense

A solid and flexible opening for Black, focusing on controlling the center and creating imbalances in pawn structure.

The opening is a popular choice among players of all levels, as it offers a solid and flexible setup for Black. It is characterized by Black's early fianchetto of the dark-squared bishop, which puts pressure on White's central pawn chain. The main idea for Black is to control the center and create imbalances in the pawn structure, which can lead to dynamic play and rich middlegame positions.

In this variation, White chooses to develop the light-squared bishop to d3, attacking Black's pawn on d5. Black's classical response is to play d5, reinforcing the pawn on e6 and challenging White's pawn on c4. This leads to a pawn tension in the center, which can result in various pawn structures depending on how the pawns are exchanged.

White's main plan in this opening is to maintain a strong pawn center and exploit the weaknesses in Black's pawn structure. Black, on the other hand, aims to undermine White's center and create counterplay on the queenside. Both sides have multiple plans and piece setups available, making this opening a versatile and rich battleground for strategic and tactical ideas.

Overall, the opening is a solid choice for players who enjoy a flexible and dynamic setup with opportunities for imbalances and counterplay. It has been played by many top-level grandmasters, including former World Champions Anatoly Karpov and Garry Kasparov, showcasing its viability and richness in high-level play.