The Modern Variation of the Nimzowitsch-Larsen Attack arises after 1.b3 e5. ECO code: A01.

Overview

With 1...e5, Black occupies the centre immediately, challenging White to demonstrate that the hypermodern approach can cope with a classical pawn centre.

Main Lines

White continues 2.Bb2, and the critical question is whether Black can maintain the e5/d5 pawn centre effectively. After 2...Nc6, White may play:

• 3.e3 d5 4.Bb5 – Undermining the centre hypermodernly, pinning the knight.

• 3.c4 – Contesting d5 in English Opening fashion.

Black can also choose 2...d6, maintaining a flexible Philidor-type structure, or 2...f6 to reinforce e5.

Strategic Themes & Plans

The tension between Black's classical centre and White's long-diagonal pressure defines the character of this variation. White aims to provoke weaknesses in Black's pawn chain before challenging it directly. Black should develop actively, seeking to maintain the centre while avoiding overextension.