ECO A09 · for White
Réti Opening
The line below is what Lichess 1600-1800 players actually play: after the opening's defining moves, each move is the most common choice at that point. The notes are Chessbook's move notes, the same ones shown while building a repertoire.
1,433,377 games in this band reached the Réti Opening position. From there White won 53% and drew 4%.
1. Nf3 d5 2. c4 dxc4 3. e3 b5 4. a4 c6 5. axb5 cxb5
Moves 1 to 2
1. Nf3 d5 2. c4 dxc4
1. Nf3
A flexible first move that can transpose to many different lines.
1... d5
Advancing the d-pawn to open up the light-squared bishop and control the center.
2. c4
Challenging the d5 pawn and allowing for sharp continuations.
2... dxc4
Capturing the c4 pawn and relieving the central tension, but giving up the center.
- 2... d4: Relieving the pressure on the d5 pawn, while gaining space, and restricting the b1 knight's development.
- 2... c6: Supporting the d5 pawn and planning to recapture on d5 with the pawn.
- 2... e6: Supporting the challenged d5 pawn and intending to recapture on d5 with the pawn after cxd5.
- 2... Nf6: Developing the knight and preparing to recapture on dd5 with the knight.
Moves 3 to 4
3. e3 b5 4. a4 c6
3. e3
3... b5
4. a4
4... c6
Move 5
5. axb5 cxb5
5. axb5
5... cxb5
Plans for White in this position
What White usually does from here in Chessbook's games data. Hover a move to see it on the board.
- White typically castles kingside
- The pawn on b3 generally captures the pawn on c4
- The queen usually recaptures the pawn on b3
- The queenside knight often develops to c3
- The queen typically develops to a4
- Common pawn moves are b3 and d4
Related opening guides
- Italian Game for White
- Queen's Gambit for White
- English Opening for White
- Bishop's Opening for White
- Zukertort Opening for White
- Ruy Lopez for White