Nimzo-Indian Defense
ECO E50 · Nimzo-Indian Defense · positional · advanced
The Nimzo-Indian Defense (E50) is a positional chess opening in the Nimzo-Indian Defense family, played by Black. It arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 O-O 5. Nf3. Considered the best defense against 1.d4. Recommended for advanced players.
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 O-O 5. Nf3
About this opening
The Nimzo-Indian Defense (1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nc3 Bb4) pins the c3 knight to control the e4 square and threaten to double White's pawns after ...Bxc3. This unique blend of positional play and dynamic pressure makes it one of the most respected defenses against 1.d4. The Rubinstein Variation (4.e3), the Classical (4.Qc2) and the Sämisch are its pillars. Aaron Nimzowitsch laid its hypermodern foundations.