About This Game
Al Onischuk and Magnus Carlsen met over the board in this full-length game at 36th Olympiad in 2004. It was played in round 14. The game dates from the modern computer-influenced era.
Play followed Nimzo-Indian Defense (E55) — a strategic battle of structure and activity. In these systems both sides manoeuvre carefully before committing.
Running to 57 moves, the game moved through a full middlegame into an endgame, showing how an advantage is carried between phases.
Magnus Carlsen is one of the grandmasters featured in the RamaChess archive, where you can browse their complete game collection, favourite openings and notable wins.
Games like this are useful at every level: opening principles for beginners, middlegame plans for club players, fine technique for experts.
In the end, Al Onischuk won with the white pieces. Step through the moves on the interactive board above and try the position trainer to sharpen your own play.
Frequently asked questions
Who played this game?
This game was played between Al Onischuk (White) and Magnus Carlsen (Black), at 36th Olympiad in 2004.
What opening was played?
The game used Nimzo-Indian Defense (ECO code E55). A strategic battle of structure and activity.
What was the result?
Al Onischuk won with the white pieces.
How long was the game?
The game lasted 57 moves (113 plies).
Can I replay this game move by move?
Yes. Use the interactive board on this page to step through every move, or open the analyser and Practice mode.
Where can I find more games like this?
Browse the full Nimzo-Indian Defense collection, Magnus Carlsen's complete game archive, and thousands more grandmaster games in the RamaChess archive.