Nimzo-Indian Defense

E20-E59intermediate

The Nimzo-Indian Defense is one of the most respected defenses to 1.d4. Black develops the bishop to b4, pinning the knight and creating active piece play.

Available Lines

Nimzo-Indian Defense: Leningrad Variation

After 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nc3 Bb4 4.Bg5, White enters the Leningrad Variation, developing the bishop to g5 to pin Black's knight. This flexible system aims for active piece play and central control. White prepares to create pressure on Black's position while maintaining a solid pawn structure.

Nimzo-Indian Defense: Classical Variation, Zurich Variation

After 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nc3 Bb4 4.Qc2 Nc6, White enters the Classical Variation with the Zurich Variation setup. This flexible system aims for solid development and strategic maneuvering. White prepares to control the center and create active piece play while maintaining a flexible pawn structure.

Nimzo-Indian Defense: Kmoch Variation

After 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nc3 Bb4 4.f3, White enters the Kmoch Variation, playing f3 to support the center and prepare for e4. This aggressive approach, named after Hans Kmoch, aims to create a strong central pawn structure and active piece play. White prepares to challenge Black's setup directly.

Nimzo-Indian Defense: Reshevsky Variation

After 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nc3 Bb4 4.e3 O-O 5.Ne2, White enters the Reshevsky Variation, playing e3 and Ne2 to avoid the pin and maintain flexibility. This solid system, named after Samuel Reshevsky, aims for strategic maneuvering and long-term positional advantages. White prepares for central expansion and piece activity.