By playing b3, the player enters the Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Classical Variation, a setup within the Nimzo-Larsen Attack complex. While e3 is the consensus choice, b3 offers a fresh perspective. It succeeds by sacrificing popularity for a higher scoring weapon. This move aims to control the long diagonal.
From here, play typically proceeds with Bg4 or c5, leading into the Reti. Data analysis shows a 42% win rate for White, indicating White advantage.
Also known as: Reti: Nimzowitsch-Larsen, Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Classical Variation, 2. b3, Réti Opening: 1...d5:Nimzowitsch–Larsen Attack
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