The Van Geet Opening: A Deep Dive into 1. Nc3

Introduction

The world of chess openings is filled with rich history, deep theoretical battles, and innovative strategies. Among the lesser-known yet intriguing choices is the Van Geet Opening, characterized by the first move 1. Nc3. This flexible and dynamic opening, sometimes known as the Dunst Opening or the Sleipnir Opening, is an excellent choice for players looking to avoid mainstream opening theory while maintaining a solid and strategic position.

Named after the Dutch International Master Dick van Geet, who frequently employed it, this opening can lead to a variety of setups, from transpositions into mainstream openings to unique, independent lines full of tactical and strategic depth.

In this article, we will explore the history, variations, notable practitioners, famous games, and grandmaster opinions on the Van Geet Opening.

Origins and History

The move 1. Nc3 has been played for centuries but did not gain much prominence until the 20th century. While it had been experimented with sporadically by different players, it was Dutch IM Dick van Geet (1932-2012) who brought the opening into serious consideration by frequently using it in high-level play.

Van Geet was a strong International Master who sought to surprise his opponents by sidestepping well-trodden opening theory. His advocacy of 1. Nc3 led to the opening being associated with his name. Despite its rarity in elite circles, it has remained a viable choice, especially in faster time controls and club-level play.

Key Ideas and Move Order

The Van Geet Opening is defined by:

1. Nc3

This move immediately controls the center (d5 and e4) and prepares flexible development. It can lead to various transpositions, including the Vienna Game (1. e4 Nc3 2. f4), the English Opening (1. c4), or even a Delayed Reti setup (g3, Bg2, d3).

Core Strategic Ideas:

1. Flexibility – White can choose different setups based on Black’s response.
2. Avoiding Theory – The opening sidesteps deep theoretical battles in mainstream openings.
3. Center Control – White influences the center without committing to pawn moves too early.
4. Transpositional Potential – The game can transpose into well-known openings such as the Nimzowitsch Defense, English Opening, or the Pirc/Modern setups.

Variations of the Van Geet Opening

Since 1. Nc3 is not a forcing move, Black has several responses. Let’s examine the key variations.

1. Nc3 d5 (Classical Response)

This is the most natural response, directly challenging White’s control of the center. White has multiple options:

• 2. e4 – Transposing into the Vienna Game or Scandinavian Defense after 2… dxe4.
• 2. d4 – Transitioning into a Queen’s Gambit-type setup.
• 2. Nf3 – Developing solidly and waiting for Black’s commitments before deciding on the central structure.

1. Nc3 e5 (Direct Challenge)

Black immediately claims central space. White can proceed with:

• 2. e4 – Transposing into a reversed Vienna Game.
• 2. d4 – Leading to a Scandinavian-like structure where White aims to undermine Black’s center.
• 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 – Entering a flexible pawn structure similar to the Four Knights Game.

1. Nc3 Nf6 (Hypermodern Setup)

This move allows Black to develop pieces flexibly. White can continue with:

• 2. e4 – Transposing into Pirc/Modern structures.
• 2. d4 d5 3. Bg5 – Entering a Jobava-London-style system.

1. Nc3 c5 (Sicilian-Like Approach)

Black attempts to adopt a Sicilian structure. White can react with:

• 2. e4 – Transposing into the Closed Sicilian.
• 2. g3 – Aiming for a fianchetto setup with an English Opening flavor.

Notable Grandmasters and Players Who Used the Van Geet Opening

Though not a mainstream opening, the Van Geet Opening has been played by several notable players:

• Dick van Geet – The namesake of the opening, who used it frequently and successfully in high-level games.
• Bent Larsen – A highly creative grandmaster who occasionally employed 1. Nc3 in his games.
• Magnus Carlsen – Has used 1. Nc3 in online and blitz games as a surprise weapon.
• Richard Rapport – A modern grandmaster known for his unconventional opening choices, has experimented with 1. Nc3.
• Hikaru Nakamura – Has used 1. Nc3 in rapid and blitz games to steer opponents into unfamiliar territory.

Grandmaster Opinions on the Van Geet Opening

Pros

• Surprise Factor: Since it is rarely studied in depth, opponents may struggle to find the best responses.
• Flexibility: Can transpose into multiple openings, keeping the opponent guessing.
• Avoiding Theory: Allows White to bypass deeply analyzed opening lines.

Cons

• Lack of Direct Central Control: Unlike 1. e4 or 1. d4, White does not immediately claim the center with a pawn.
• No Forced Advantage: Unlike openings such as the Ruy-Lopez or Queen’s Gambit, White does not gain a clear theoretical edge.
• Relatively Uncommon at Elite Level: It is not frequently seen in top classical tournaments.

Famous Games Featuring the Van Geet Opening

Game 1: Dick van Geet vs. Otto Borik (1971)

1. Nc3 d5 2. e4 dxe4 3. Nxe4 Nd7 4. d4 Ngf6 5. Ng5 e6 6. Bd3 Be7 7. N1f3 O-O 8. h4

Van Geet demonstrated an aggressive setup, quickly launching an attack against Black’s kingside, ultimately securing a victory with precise play.

Game 2: Magnus Carlsen (Online Blitz 2020)

1. Nc3 e5 2. e4 Nc6 3. g3 g6 4. Bg2 Bg7 5. d3

Carlsen played a slow, positional game, transposing into a reversed King’s Indian Attack, utilizing hypermodern principles to outmaneuver his opponent.

Conclusion

The Van Geet Opening (1. Nc3) is an exciting and underexplored option for players who enjoy flexibility, creativity, and avoiding mainstream opening theory. While not a staple in elite classical chess, it remains a strong weapon in rapid, blitz, and club play.

For players who value versatility, surprise, and strategic depth, incorporating the Van Geet Opening into their repertoire can lead to rewarding and unpredictable games.