Nimzo-Indian Defense for Black – Part 2 PGN Only January 18, 2026

Completing Your Arsenal

Nimzo-Indian Defense for Black – Part 1 addressed the Rubinstein and Sämisch systems. This second installment tackles everything else: the Classical Variation with 4.Qc2, the increasingly popular Fianchetto systems with 4.g3, the dangerous Bg5 setups, and White’s remaining sidelines. The philosophy remains consistent—find dynamic, fighting solutions backed by deep preparation and modern engine analysis.

Variation Map:

• 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nc3 Bb4
  • 4.Qc2 (Classical/Capablanca Variation) – Main focus
    • 4…O-O 5.a3 Bxc3+ 6.Qxc3 b6 — Chapters 2-5
    • 4…O-O 5.e4 d6!? — Sharp fighting line, Chapters 6-7
    • 4…O-O 5.Nf3 c5 6.dxc5 Na6 7.g3 — Chapter 1
      • Modern approach: 9…Bxc3!? 10.bxc3 Qc7
  • 4.g3 (Fianchetto System) — Chapters 8-9

• Carlsen-Niemann ideas and 2025 innovations

• 4.Nf3 O-O 5.Bg5 (Bg5 Systems) — Chapters 10-11

• Fresh antidotes to dangerous setups

• 4.Qb3 and other sidelines — Chapter 12