Play 1.b3! - Ilya Odessky

The popularity of the Nimzo-Larsen Attack is largely based on its surprise value, but in fact 1.b3 is one of White’s more logical first moves. By immediately developing his queen’s bishop, White aims at undermining the black centre.

Ilya Odessky’s message in this unusual opening book is: opening with 1.b2-b3 is a lot of fun! Odessky will amuse and surprise you, but also teach you all the ins and outs of this offbeat system, which has been used by top players like Bobby Fischer and Bent Larsen.

White avoids the many theoretical landmines of mainline openings and steers towards an open battle, right from the start. This system’s basic ideas are strategically sound and easy to learn. But it can also offer wild complications for lovers of tactics.

Odessky does not fool you into believing that White is better in all 1.b3 lines. But you will get to know this opening deeply, and you will be better prepared for the struggle than your opponent will be. You will enjoy playing 1.b3!

Ilya Odessky is an International Master from Russia, a well-known chess coach and an outstanding chess writer.