Reshevsky Variation

1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nc3 Bb4 4.e3 c5

The Reshevsky Variation combines the solid Rubinstein system with an immediate central strike. By playing c5, Black challenges White's center directly while maintaining the pin on the knight, creating rich strategic and tactical possibilities.

ECO Code

E24

Difficulty

Intermediate to Advanced

Style

Strategic/Active

Key Players

Reshevsky, Fischer, Kasparov

Active Strategy

Central challenge: c5 immediately contests White's center
Maintaining the pin: Bishop stays on b4 creating pressure
Piece activity: Quick development with active piece play
Strategic flexibility: Multiple piece placement options
Counterplay generation: Create immediate imbalances

Main Continuations

5.Bd3

5.Bd3 Nc6 6.Nf3

Natural development maintaining piece coordination and central control.

5.Nge2

5.Nge2 cxd4 6.exd4

Flexible knight development preparing to support the center differently.

5.dxc5

5.dxc5 Bxc5 6.Nf3

Immediate resolution accepting doubled pawns for quick development.

Reshevsky's Innovation

Samuel Reshevsky developed this active approach to combine the solidity of the Rubinstein system with immediate counterplay. The c5 advance creates tactical opportunities while maintaining the positional advantages of the pin.

Strategic Themes

Key Ideas for Both Sides

Central tension: The c5 vs d4 battle becomes crucial
Piece development: Both sides must develop actively
King safety: Early castling while maintaining central pressure
Tactical awareness: Pin and counterpin motifs are common
Pawn structure: Central exchanges determine the character

Typical Plans

White's Response

Development and central control

White must balance development with maintaining central control and dealing with the pin.

Black's Counterplay

Active piece development and central pressure

Black seeks active piece play and maintains central tension for tactical opportunities.

Key Points

For White: Develop harmoniously and don't allow Black to dominate the center completely.

For Black: Maintain active piece play and look for tactical opportunities created by the pin.

Modern Applications

The Reshevsky Variation remains a solid choice for players seeking active counterplay against the Rubinstein system. It offers good practical chances while avoiding the most forcing theoretical lines.

Master the Reshevsky Variation

Learn active counterplay and understand how to create immediate central tension in the Nimzo-Indian.

Back to Nimzo-Indian Defense Explore Hübner Variation