Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Dutch Variation

Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Dutch Variation

Definition

The Nimzo-Larsen Attack, Dutch Variation is an opening system that arises after the moves: 1. b3 f5. White’s flank development of the queen’s bishop on the long diagonal (b2–g7) meets Black’s aggressive …f5, characteristic of the Dutch Defence family. The sequence usually continues 2. Bb2 Nf6 3. e3, though move orders can vary. ECO classifies the line in the A01 category (Flank Openings).

Typical Move Order

The most common path into the Dutch Variation is:

1. 1. b3   f5
2. 2. Bb2  Nf6
3. 3. e3   e6 (or 3…g6)

From here the game can transpose into a variety of structures, including …d6/ …e5 Dutch-Stonewall hybrids or classical Dutch setups with …d5. White often aims for Nf3, c4, d4, fighting for the centre only after securely deploying the bishop.

Strategic Ideas

• For White
  • Exploit the long diagonal a1–h8, targeting Black’s weakened kingside dark squares (e.g., e5, h5).
  • Delay centre occupation; strike later with c4 and d4 to undermine Black’s pawn chain f5–e6–d6.
  • Flexible piece play: knights often land on f3 and c3; the queen can develop to f3 or h5, pressuring f5.
• For Black
  • Maintain Dutch spirit: control e4 and prepare …e5 or …d6/ …e5, creating a Stonewall-like cage.
  • Counter the b2-bishop by fianchettoing the own bishop (…g6, …Bg7) or erecting a pawn wall with …d5–e6.
  • Seek kingside initiative via …g5 or piece buildup on the f-file (…Rf8, …Qe8, …Qh5).

Historical & Theoretical Significance

• The opening bears the joint names of Aron Nimzowitsch and Bent Larsen, both pioneers of off-beat, hyper-modern ideas.
• The …f5 response was first seen in master practice in the 1920s, but it gained real theoretical attention after Larsen used 1. b3 as a primary weapon in the late 1960s and 70s.
• Modern engines evaluate the line as roughly equal; it is still a surprise weapon, attractive to Dutch-Defence aficionados who wish to steer the game into familiar attacking structures without allowing mainstream anti-Dutch theory (after 1. d4 f5).

Illustrative Mini-Game

The following short grandmaster clash shows typical ideas (
).

• White’s bishop pair scrutinises g7 and e4.
• Black keeps Dutch structure and eyes e5 breaks.
• The game balances dynamic pawn play with long-diagonal tactics—hallmarks of this variation.

Notable Encounters

• Larsen – Timman, Wijk aan Zee 1973 – An early heavyweight battle; Larsen uncorked a timely c4–d4 pawn storm to neutralise Black’s kingside ambitions.
• Jobava – Sutovsky, European Club Cup 2014 – A modern illustration where White delayed d4, used h3–g4 to seize space, and eventually dominated the f-file.

Common Plans & Tactics

1. Exchange on g7: Bxg7 Kxg7 followed by d4/d5 can rip open lines toward Black’s king.
2. c4-c5 thrust: Undermines the Stonewall centre if Black plays …d5-e6-f5.
3. Queenside castling: White sometimes castles long, then advances g- and h-pawns for a pawn storm.
4. …e5 or …c5 breaks: Key equalising plans for Black to unchain the light-square bishop.

Interesting Facts & Anecdotes

• Bent Larsen once quipped, “If Black insists on playing the Dutch, I might as well let him from move one.”
• The line is a favourite in blitz and bullet; pre-moving 1…f5 is a common psychological ploy against 1. b3 specialists.
• On online platforms, the ECO code A01 covers sideline diversions like 1. b3 g6 and 1…e5, but the Dutch Variation is the second-most popular response after 1…d5.
• Because the initial moves are so flexible, the game can transpose into English, Réti, or even reversed Dutch structures—valuable for players seeking to avoid heavy opening theory.

Further Study Suggestions

To deepen understanding, examine games by Bent Larsen, Baadur Jobava, and young talents who blend hyper-modern systems with dynamic Dutch pawn structures. Pair engine analysis with classic texts such as Nimzowitsch’s “My System” to appreciate the positional ideas underlying the queen’s-bishop fianchetto and delayed central occupation.