The Dutch Defence with 2.g3 arises after 1.d4 f5 2.g3. ECO code: A81.

Overview

White's most common and theoretically respected response to the Dutch Defence. The fianchettoed bishop on g2 will exert strong pressure along the h1–a8 diagonal, taking advantage of Black's weakened light squares after ...f5.

Strategic Themes & Plans

White's Bg2 is excellently placed to exploit the weakened a8–h1 diagonal created by ...f5. Combined with c4 and Nf3, White builds a flexible position. Black should complete development with ...Nf6, ...e6 or ...g6, and choose between Stonewall (...d5), Leningrad (...g6, ...Bg7), or Classical (...e6, ...Be7) structures.