Nimzo-Indian Defense: Three Knights Variation, Duchamp Variation

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

The opening is a variation of the Nimzo-Indian Defense, which is a popular and well-respected choice for Black against 1.d4. In this variation, Black aims to control the center and create imbalances in the pawn structure by pinning the knight on c3 with the bishop on b4. White's typical response is to develop the other knight to f3, supporting the center and preparing for kingside castling.

The Duchamp Variation is characterized by Black's move 7...b6, preparing to fianchetto the light-squared bishop on b7. This move adds pressure on the central e4 square and can potentially lead to the exchange of the dark-squared bishops, which can be advantageous for Black.

White has several options to continue the game, including advancing the pawn to e4, playing e3 to solidify the center, or opting for a more aggressive approach with moves like g4 or h4. Black can counter these plans by breaking in the center with moves like c5 or d5, or by focusing on piece play and coordination.

The resulting positions can be rich in strategic and tactical possibilities, with both sides having chances for an advantage. The opening is named after the famous artist and chess player Marcel Duchamp, who contributed to its development and popularization. Overall, the Duchamp Variation offers Black a solid and flexible choice against 1.d4, with plenty of opportunities for creative play.