Smyslov_Fan wrote on 08/05/09 at 16:06:49:


Isn't this essentially what TN wrote? Anyhow, probably because I am far under 2400, I feel that Black's lack of space after 4.Bd2 does not matter as much, because (s)he exchanges a pair of bishops. According to the same straightforward logic Black should prefer the setup with ...d6 and ...e5. Then it must be hard for White to make any progress. Now I do recall some lines in which White plays an early c4-c5 and turns a slight lead in development into c-file domination.
For the reasons TN gave (and if 4.Nc3, why not 3.Nc3 indeed?) I voted 4.Nbd2. I am not impressed by the argument that Bc1 is shut in. That's only temporary; if nothing else then b2 is a good square.

Smyslov_Fan wrote on 08/05/09 at 16:06:49:


I was looking at some Andersson games and he does make it look very reliable.

I recommend the 4.Nbd2 system as being the best option for a player below 2400. In my opinion 4.Bd2 is better over 2400 as the level of technique at this level is significantly higher. 

4.Bd2 probably offers a slightly greater edge for White than 4.Nbd2, but with 4.Nbd2, White usually gains the bishop pair (4...0-0 5.a3 Be7 being the notable exception), and in practice it is often easier to win such positions with the bishop pair than those in 4.Bd2 with extra space but with no Black weaknesses to attack. 

The 4.Nbd2 variation is more ambitious, and also offers flexibility in that White can follow up with a3, e3 or g3, whilst White's options to fight for an advantage after 4.Bd2 are somewhat more limited but objectively more testing than White's attempts with 4.Nbd2. I have played the Bogo-Indian myself and found that the 4.Nbd2 line is more frustrating than the 4.Bd2 variation. The experience of my opponents who played the Bogo-Indian is similar.

4.Nc3 is possible, but I don't think White can hope for more than a tiny edge here. If Black wants to continue to play in Bogo-style, there is always 4...Bc3(?! for objective merit, !? for practical value) 5.bc3 d6 which should be a solid +=. 

1.e4 is also a good winning chance, but it's not against the Bogo...

Old Shaun Taulbut book on the Bogo was what started me off there some twenty years ago. Explains things nicely. Still worth a look I imagine. Theory is available everywhere. Players need ideas too.

Smyslov_Fan wrote on 08/05/09 at 05:57:38:


Troll? Bit peculiar.
Naturally, it is a very solid system. If white could find a straightforward plus-over-minus, noone would play it. 
Tips:
Calm down a little. Put on your patient hat.
Try Nc3 and get a copy of Ward's book on the Kasparov Nimzo.

Hi all!

I've been having a terrible time reaching + positions as White against the Bogo-Indian.

I have read quite a bit of the literature and followed the games of some of the star players, but I am becoming more and more convinced that while White's game is attractive, there is no way through Black's defense unless he makes some sort of big mistake.

Of course, the games of Ulf Andersson (as Black) aren't helping any.

So, what's the best way to play for a win for White against the Bogo-Indian?

(1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nf3 Bb4+)