Van Geet Opening: what should White play?

Nf3! — Excellent Choice!

✅ One of 2 top moves — you found a winning strategy!

Why this move is excellent: By playing Nf3, you are prioritizing flexible development. This move controls the vital d4 and e5 squares, prepares for kingside castling, and keeps your central options open for the next few moves.

Multiple Valid Strategies

In this specific opening setup, you actually had two paths to a slight advantage. Both are objectively equal in strength!

Different paths, same destination: While d4 is a more "territorial" approach to grab the center immediately, your choice of Nf3 is more patient. It’s a professional way to develop that doesn't commit your central pawns too early, making it harder for Black to find a target for a counter-attack.

Your Continuation

After Nf3, the game likely proceeds with a solid central struggle: d5 d4 Bf5 Bd3 e6

What Made This Move Good

You correctly saw: That developing your minor pieces toward the center is the highest priority. While many players at this level might play passively with moves like a3, you chose the most efficient way to bring your g1 into the fight.

📚 Takeaway: In positions with multiple good moves, trust your style! Whether you prefer the immediate center control of d4 or the flexible development of Nf3, both lead to a great game for White.