The Réti Advance Variation arises after 1.Nf3 d5 2.c4 d4. ECO code: A09.

Overview

With 2...d4, Black pushes the d-pawn forward, gaining central space but leaving it potentially vulnerable. This ambitious approach tests whether the pawn on d4 is a strength or a weakness.

Main Lines

White's main responses are:

• 3.e3 – The solid approach, challenging d4 immediately.

• 3.b4 – A gambit, offering a pawn for queenside play and rapid development.

Strategic Themes & Plans

The d4-pawn can be both a strength (space advantage) and a weakness (target for White's pieces). White typically undermines it with e3 or b4, while Black tries to support it with ...c5 and ...e5. The resulting positions are strategically complex with chances for both sides.