What is 1 a3?

The move 1. a3 in chess is a relatively uncommon opening move for White.

• Purpose: It aims to control the b4 square, potentially hindering Black from developing a knight to that location. It can also be seen as a waiting move, allowing White to assess Black's intentions before committing to a more specific plan.
• Drawbacks: It's generally considered passive and doesn't contribute much to immediate development or control of the center. It can cede the initiative to Black. Because of the passive nature, the move <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Passive%20Move">Passive Move</a> is not usually recommanded.
• Common Usage: It may be seen in some sidelines or transpositions, rarely as a primary opening choice at higher levels of play. It is sometimes considered a form of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Anti-preparation">Anti-preparation</a>, used to avoid heavily analyzed main lines.
• Assessment: Most chess engines and opening databases would view 1. a3 as a weak or inaccurate move in standard chess. It deviates from established opening principles which put emphasis on <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Center%20Control">Center Control</a> and rapid development.