Nimzowitsch Variation

1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nf3 Bb4+ 4.Bd2 a5 5.g3 b6 6.Bg2 Bb7

Black expands on the queenside with ...a5 and develops with ...b6 and ...Bb7. The setup keeps structural flexibility and often delays central commitment until piece placement is complete.

ECO Code

E11

Difficulty

Intermediate

Style

Positional/Queenside

Key Theme

Space and restraint

Main Plans

Black: Dark-Square Pressure

...d6 and ...Nbd7

Black coordinates around the b7 bishop and keeps central breaks in reserve.

White: Central Expansion

Nc3 and e4

White often gains space if Black delays direct central confrontation.

Queenside Geometry

a5 vs b4 squares

Black's pawn on a5 can prevent b4 plans and stabilize queenside play.

A Strategic Bogo-Indian Sideline

This variation suits players who like restrained queenside buildup.

Back to Bogo-Indian Defense a5 Queenside System