Réti Opening

ECO A04–A09 · Level: Intermediate · Also known as: Reti, 1.Af3, Kral Hint Atağı

The Réti Opening (1.Nf3) controls the centre from a distance with pieces and the c4 push instead of occupying it with pawns. It is a hypermodern opening.

Position at the end of the main line

Main line

1.Nf3 d5 2.c4 e6 3.g3 Nf6 4.Bg2 Be7 5.O-O O-O

Play it in the opening explorerTry it against the computer

History

Introduced in the 1920s by Richard Réti, leader of the hypermodern school, who used it to beat Capablanca in 1924.

White's plan

  • Put pressure on the centre from the flank with Nf3, g3, Bg2 and c4.
  • Transpose to the English, Catalan or King's Indian Attack depending on Black's set-up.

Black's plan

  • Build a solid centre with ...d5 and ...e6 or ...c6.
  • Keep your own set-up consistent against White's flexibility.

Key variations

King's Indian Attack

1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nf6 3.Bg2 c6 4.O-O Bg4 5.d3 Nbd7 6.Nbd2 e5 7.e4

Open in explorer →

Who should play it?

For White players who like to stay flexible and choose a plan based on Black's set-up.

Frequently asked questions

Are the Réti and the English the same?

They often transpose; in the Réti, Nf3 comes first and White delays d4.

Learn this opening with lessons

Related openings

  • English Opening — The English Opening (1.c4) controls the centre from the flank, allowing reversed-Sicilian structures and many transpositions.
  • Catalan Opening — The Catalan combines Queen's Gambit structures with g3 and Bg2, creating lasting pressure along the long diagonal.
  • London System — The London System sets up the same solid structure (d4, Bf4, e3, c3, Nf3, Nbd2) almost regardless of Black's moves.

← All chess openings