ECO code: C00
French Defense: Steinitz Attack
Moves: 1. e4 e6 2. e5
Description: The Steinitz Attack is an uncommon and somewhat offbeat variation against the French Defense. By pushing the pawn immediately to e5 on White's second move, White gains space in the center and cramps Black's position early on. This move aims to challenge Black's typical French counterplay, which often revolves around undermining White’s center with ...d5.
Characteristic: The immediate 2. e5 move is a direct spatial claim that restricts Black’s natural development and central counterattacks but also somewhat neglects rapid piece development. It is a straightforward way for White to avoid the main lines of the French Defense.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this is an attacking move focusing on gaining space and initiative. For Black, the position requires a solid and often defensive approach initially, as Black must find ways to challenge White’s advanced pawn and free their game.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly attacks and gains space in the center by pushing the e-pawn forward early, aiming to restrict Black’s counterplay in the center.
This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the French Defense: Steinitz Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 29 - Move #7 white