1Nf6

1...Nf6 is chess notation that indicates Black’s knight from g8 moves to f6 on Black’s first move. It is one of the most common first replies for Black, valued for its flexibility and quick development. The knight on f6 controls the central squares e4 and d5, prepares several pawn breaks, and allows a wide range of set-ups depending on White’s response.

Strategically, 1...Nf6 aims to contest White’s central plans without committing pawns. It can lead to a variety of openings and transpositions, from direct counterplay to more hypermodern paths that invite White to occupy the center with pawns before Black challenges it.

In openings, 1...Nf6 appears in both 1.e4 and 1.d4 games. Against 1.e4, it gives the Alekhine Defense, where White often plays 2.e5 to chase the knight and Black seeks counterplay later. Against 1.d4, it is a standard starting point for many Indian Defenses, including the King's Indian Defense (1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6), the Grunfeld Defense (1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6 3.Nc3 d5), and various Nimzo-Indian configurations (continuing with 2.c4 e6 and 3.Nc3 Bb4 in some lines). The move thus serves as a flexible umbrella that can lead to both solid and dynamic structures.

Overall, 1...Nf6 remains a foundational and versatile choice for Black, valued for rapid development, central influence, and a broad range of strategic possibilities. See also Alekhine Defense, Indian Defense, King's Indian Defense, and Grunfeld Defense.