Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation

A flexible and offbeat opening, the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation aims to control the center with pieces and allows for various pawn structures.

The Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation is a chess opening characterized by the fianchetto of the light-squared bishop on b2, which aims to control the central squares from a distance. Named after Danish Grandmaster Bent Larsen, who was known for his unconventional and creative play, the Indian Variation specifically refers to the response 1...Nf6 by Black. This move allows Black to quickly develop their kingside pieces and prepare for castling.

Considered a hypermodern opening, the Nimzo-Larsen Attack does not immediately occupy the center with pawns but rather aims to control it with pieces. White's plan in this opening is to create a flexible pawn structure that can adapt to various pawn breaks and piece placements. The opening can transpose into other systems, such as the English Opening or the Reti Opening, depending on the subsequent moves by both players.

Black has several ways to counter this opening, such as playing ...d5 to challenge the center or ...g6 to fianchetto their own dark-squared bishop. The Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Indian Variation is not as popular or well-studied as other openings, which can be an advantage for players who are well-prepared and enjoy surprising their opponents with offbeat lines.