The Classical Variation of the Nimzowitsch-Larsen Attack arises after 1.b3 d5. ECO code: A01.

Overview

With 1...d5, Black establishes a central pawn on d5 immediately, the most direct challenge to White's hypermodern approach.

Main Lines

After 2.Bb2, Black can continue:

• 2...c5 – Building a broad centre. White may play 3.e3 Nc6 4.Nf3 Nf6 5.Bb5, reaching a reversed Nimzo-Indian Defence structure.

• 2...Nf6 – Flexible development, preparing ...e6 or ...g6.

• 2...Bg4 – Developing the bishop actively before deciding on a pawn structure.

Strategic Themes & Plans

The fundamental tension is between White's long-diagonal pressure and Black's central presence. White may seek to challenge the centre with c4 or e3 followed by d4, while Black uses the central pawns as a base for active piece play. Both sides have numerous viable plans, making this one of the most balanced and theoretically important lines of the Nimzowitsch-Larsen Attack.