The Strategic 1.Nf3 System (Part 1) - 2.e3 Approach
The Reversed Nimzo-Indian: When White Dictates the Terms
The Nimzo-Indian Defense has shaped positional chess for a century. Black pins the knight, controls the center, and fights for long-term compensation. But what if White could play a Nimzo-Indian structure with an extra tempo and without the structural concessions? GM Baadur Jobava and GM Pier Luigi Basso answer this question with their Strategic 1.Nf3 System, a flexible repertoire where 2.e3 and the subsequent Bb5 pin creates a reversed Nimzo-Indian with White holding all the cards.
This isn't a gambit or a novelty hunt. The course builds on the Reti's inherent flexibility, using the move order 1.Nf3 d5 2.e3 to avoid early commitments while maintaining maximum options. Unlike the immediate 1.b3, which allows Black straightforward ...e5 setups, the 1.Nf3 with 2.e3 approach keeps the position fluid. White develops harmoniously with b3, Bb2, and Bb5, applying familiar Nimzo-Indian pressure but with reversed colors and an extra tempo. The key tactical motif appears after 1.Nf3 d5 2.e3 c5 3.b3 Nf6 4.Bb2 Nc6 5.Bb5—pinning the knight and challenging Black to navigate a structure where White's pieces coordinate naturally.
Jobava and Basso bring complementary expertise to this project. Jobava, known for his creative opening systems, provides the strategic framework and practical handling of imbalanced positions. Basso contributes precise theoretical analysis and structural understanding. Together, they recently collaborated on French Defense for Black - The Creative 2...a6 System, demonstrating their ability to uncover fresh ideas in established openings. Here, they apply that same rigor to a white repertoire that emphasizes understanding over memorization.
Variation Map
After 1.Nf3 d5 2.e3, Black's main responses are covered systematically:
2...Nf6 3.b3:
- 3...Bg4 → Chapter 1 (systems with h3)
- 3...Bf5 4.Be2 → Chapter 2
- 3...c6 → Chapter 3 (Slav structures)
- 3...g6 → Chapter 9 (fianchetto without ...c5)
2...c5 3.b3:
- 3...a6 → Chapter 5 (anti-Bb5 prophylaxis)
- 3...Nc6 4.Bb2 e6 5.Bb5 Nge7 → Chapter 7 (knight reinforcement)
- 3...f6 4.d4 → Chapter 10 (large center, rare lines)
2...c5 3.b3 Nf6 4.Bb2:
- 4...e6 5.Bb5+ → Chapter 6 (classical development)
- 4...g6 5.c4 → Chapter 8
- 4...Nc6 5.Bb5 → Chapter 4 (main line, reversed Nimzo)
The course covers the entire spectrum of Black's responses with the depth required for practical mastery. Over 70% of the material focuses on the critical ...c5 lines, where theoretical knowledge matters most. The remaining chapters address alternative setups including Slav structures, early bishop development, and fianchetto systems. Each chapter presents clear plans, typical middlegame themes, and concrete move-by-move guidance.
Course Features
- 10 Chapters
- 20 test positions
- Memory Booster
- To Go Version of every chapter
- Video instruction
- Multilingual PGN availability (English, German, French, Spanish)
The Strategic 1.Nf3 System offers a repertoire for players seeking positional clarity without sacrificing winning chances. The reversed Nimzo-Indian structure provides a reliable framework, the move order flexibility avoids theoretical landmines, and the authors' analysis gives you everything needed to implement this system with confidence. Get the course and start building your 1.Nf3 with 2.e3 repertoire today.