The Wade Defence arises after 1.Nf3 d6 2.e4 Bg4 in the Réti Opening. ECO code: A04.

Overview

Named after the British IM Robert Wade, this system sees Black develop the bishop to g4 early, pinning the knight and creating immediate tactical possibilities on the kingside.

Strategic Themes & Plans

Black applies early pressure on the e4-pawn through the pin on the knight. If White plays d4, Black may follow with ...Nf6, ...e6, and ...Be7, setting up a solid structure. The Wade Defence can also transpose into certain lines of the Pirc Defence. White should aim to break the pin with Be2 or h3 and maintain central control.