Nimzo-Indian Defense: Reshevsky Variation

Before the first move

The Nimzo-Indian Defense is one of Black's most reliable responses to 1.d4, focusing on hypermodern control of the center. In the Reshevsky Variation, White develops the knight to e2 to avoid doubled pawns on the c-file. You will navigate a strategic battle where Black seeks rapid development and White aims for a solid, flexible structure.

1. d4White

White starts with d4, the most common alternative to e4. This move leads to more strategic and closed positions compared to the open games. You'll need to decide how to respond to White's central claim, with options like Nf6, d5, or even the aggressive Englund Gambit.

1... Nf6Black · your move

Develop your knight to f6. This is the most flexible response, preventing White from immediately playing e4 while keeping your options open for several different defensive setups.

Other paths here: Na6 (Australian Defense) · g5 (Borg Defense: Borg Gambit) · b6 (English Defense) · e5 (Englund Gambit)

2. c4White

White plays c4, the standard follow-up to d4. This move builds a powerful central duo and prepares to gain space on the queenside. You might see White try other setups here, like the Catalan with g3 or the Veresov Attack with Nc3.

Other paths here: f4 (Canard Opening) · g4 (Indian Defense: Gibbins-Weidenhagen Gambit) · e4 (Indian Defense: Omega Gambit) · d5 (Indian Defense: Pawn Push Variation)

2... e6Black · your move

Move your pawn to e6. This solidifies your control of d5 and opens the diagonal for your king's bishop, preparing for a future challenge in the center.

Other paths here: g5 (Indian Defense: Medusa Gambit) · b5 (Indian Defense: Pyrenees Gambit) · a6 (Indian: 2.c4 a6) · Nc6 (Mexican Defense)

3. Nc3White

White plays Nc3, developing a piece and eyeing the center. This is a very ambitious move that challenges you to respond. While White could play Nf3 to avoid the pin, this move is the most direct way to fight for an advantage.

Other paths here: g3 (Catalan Opening) · Qb3 (Indian Defense) · g4 (Indian Defense: Devin Gambit) · Bg5 (Indian Defense: Seirawan Attack)

3... Bb4Black · your move

Slide your bishop to b4. This pin on the c3-knight is the defining move of the Nimzo-Indian. You are indirectly fighting for the e4-square by neutralizing one of its defenders.

Other paths here: b6 (Queen's Pawn: Neo-Indian, 3...b6) · c5 (Queen's Pawn: Neo-Indian, 3...c5) · d5 (Queen's Gambit Declined: Exchange Variation)

4. e3White

White plays e3, opting for the solid Rubinstein System. This is one of the most popular ways to meet the Nimzo-Indian. White could also try the sharper f3 Variation or the Mikenas Attack with Qd3 if they wanted a more tactical struggle.

Other paths here: f3 (Nimzo-Indian Defense: Kmoch Variation) · Qd3 (Nimzo-Indian Defense: Mikenas Attack) · g3 (Nimzo-Indian Defense: Romanishin Variation) · Bd2 (Nimzo-Indian: 4.Bd2)

4... O-OBlack · your move

Castle kingside to bring your king to safety. This is a crucial step in your development, ensuring your king is tucked away before the center opens up and the real fighting begins.

Other paths here: Nc6 (Nimzo-Indian Defense: Rubinstein System, Taimanov Variation) · c5 (Nimzo-Indian Defense: Rubinstein System) · b6 (Nimzo-Indian Defense: St. Petersburg Variation) · d5 (Keres Variation, Nimzo-Indian)

5. Ne2White

White plays Ne2, the signature move of the Reshevsky Variation. White intends to meet a capture on c3 with Nxc3, maintaining a clean pawn structure. This is a more patient approach than the main line Bd3, which often leads to more immediate tactical complications.

Other paths here: Bd3 (Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation) · Nf3 (Nimzo-Indian Defense) · a3 (Nimzo-Indian Defense: Sämisch Variation)

Where you stand

The position is balanced and rich in strategic depth. White has a solid center and avoids pawn weaknesses, while Black has completed development and is ready to challenge the center with d5 or c5. The battle will revolve around whether White can utilize their space advantage or if Black can exploit the slightly passive placement of the knight on e2.

• d7-d5 Challenge the center with a d5 push
• e2-g3 Relocate the knight to a more active square
• c1-d2 Develop the bishop and break the pin
• b4-e7 Reposition the bishop if attacked by a3