Nimzowitsch-Larsen Attack, Classical Variation
Nimzowitsch-Larsen Attack, Classical Variation
Definition
The Nimzowitsch-Larsen Attack (ECO A01) is an opening that starts with the flank move 1. b3. The “Classical Variation” specifically refers to Black’s most traditional reply, 1…e5, followed by 2. Bb2 Nc6. After these three ply the position is reached:
Position after 1. b3 e5 2. Bb2 Nc6 White’s queen-bishop sits on the long diagonal a1-h8, Black has claimed the centre with the classical pawn pair e5–d7–d5 (often played next) and developed a knight to its natural c6 square.
Typical Move-Order
- 1. b3 e5
- 2. Bb2 Nc6
- 3. e3 d5
- 4. Bb5 Bd6
White may also choose 3. g3, 3. e4, or 3. Nf3, but 3. e3 is the most “classical” treatment, aiming for solid development before striking the centre.
Strategic Ideas
- White
- Exert long-diagonal pressure with the fianchettoed bishop on b2, often targeting the e5-pawn and, later, the g7-square.
- Delay king-side knight development (Nf3) to keep the f-pawn flexible for a possible f2-f4 break.
- Create a “reversed Nimzo-Indian” structure: after …d5 and …Nf6 by Black, White may play Bb5 pinning the c6-knight, followed by Nf3, d3, Nbd2.
- Black
- Occupy the centre with pawns on e5 and d5, gaining space and cramping the b2-bishop.
- Develop naturally with …Nf6, …Bd6 or …Bc5, and …0-0; the position often resembles a French Defence reversed, but with an extra tempo for Black.
- Consider the thematic thrust …f7-f5 when safe, challenging White’s bishop and claiming more dark-square control.
Historical Significance
The move 1. b3 was championed in the early 20th century by Aron Nimzowitsch, who enjoyed flouting classical dogma. Bent Larsen revived the line in the 1960s and 70s, scoring notable wins against world-class opposition, hence the double-barrelled name. The tag “Classical Variation” arose from orthodox players’ response 1…e5, deemed the most principled centre-claiming reply.
Illustrative Example
[[Pgn| b3|e5|Bb2|Nc6|e3|d5|Bb5|Bd6|f4|Qe7|Nf3|Bg4|h3|Bxf3|Qxf3|Nf6|O-O|O-O-O|Bxc6|bxc6|fxe5|Bxe5|Qf5+|Nd7|Bxe5|Qxe5|Nc3|Qxf5|Rxf5|Nh6|Rf4|f6|Ra4|Kb7|b4|Nf5|b5|c5|Rf1|g6|a3|d4|exd4|cxd4|Ne4|Rhf8|Nc5+|Ka8|Na6||arrows|b2e5,d1h5|squares|e5,d4 |]]Larsen – Uhlmann, Lugano Olympiad 1968. Larsen calmly steered the game into a middlegame where his long-diagonal pressure and queenside space told. Uhlmann, an expert on classical openings, nevertheless struggled to untangle his pieces, illustrating the latent venom of White’s set-up.
Practical Usage Tips
- If you play 1. b3, be ready for …e5; rehearse structures where your light-squared bishop is temporarily blocked by …d6–d5.
- Study manoeuvres like Na3-c4, or d2-d4 breaks supported by c2-c4, to undermine Black’s centre.
- As Black, remember the prophylactic move …a6 to discourage Bb5 pins, and be alert to tactical shots on e5 and d5 once White piles pressure on the long diagonal.
Interesting Facts & Anecdotes
- In 1970 Larsen used 1. b3 to defeat World Champion Boris Spassky in just 17 moves (USSR vs. Rest of the World Match); the game stunned spectators and boosted the opening’s popularity overnight.
- Chess engines rate 1…e5 as the most challenging reply, yet many club players shy away, fearing home-prepared gambits with f4 or e4.
- Because White’s early bishop can get “shot down” by …Ba3 ideas in some lines, 1. b3 players jokingly say they are “willing to trade a bishop for a tempo—and a legend.”
In summary, the Nimzowitsch-Larsen Attack, Classical Variation, offers both sides rich strategic play: a clash between long-range piece pressure and classical central occupation. Its unorthodox origin and success stories make it an enduringly popular surprise weapon.