Nimzo-Indian Defense: Three Knights Variation

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Overview

Nimzo-Indian Defense: Three Knights Variation is a specific line in the Indian Defenses family (ECO E21), arising from a recognised theoretical position.

The Indian Defenses group covers Indian defences — hypermodern lines where Black challenges the centre with pieces rather than pawns.

The line arises from 7 plies — specifically the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Nf3.

The line is a first-level refinement of Nimzo-Indian Defense.

The line splits into 5 documented sub-systems: Nimzo-Indian Defense: Romanishin Variation, Nimzo-Indian Defense: Romanishin Variation, English Hybrid, Nimzo-Indian Defense: St. Petersburg Variation, and others.

Together the deeper variations number 7 across the full subtree.

Explore the position on the interactive board, study its real-world results from Lichess, and challenge the engine when you are ready.

ECO code: E21
Group: Indian Defenses (E)
Plies: 7
Parent: Nimzo-Indian Defense
Direct variations: 5
Total in subtree: 7

This overview is generated automatically from the opening's metadata. Know this line well? Write a description — submissions are reviewed before publishing.

Statistics from Lichess

2,261,376 games · White 48.3% / Draw 5.2% / Black 46.5%

Moves	Games	W / D / B
O-O	666,810
c5	410,669
b6	370,935
d5	285,456
Bxc3+	271,688
Ne4	151,823
Nc6	29,365
h6	19,912

Source: Lichess Opening Explorer · cached 2026-09-26 01:43:57

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Variations (5)

Show all 7 sub-variations (full subtree)

Overview

Statistics from Lichess

Variations (5)

Related variations at the same level