ECO code: C24
Bishop's Opening: Paulsen Defence
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Bc4 Nf6 3. d3 c6
This variation arises when Black responds to the Bishop's Opening with 3...c6, known as the Paulsen Defence. The move ...c6 is characteristic for preparing a solid pawn structure and supporting a potential ...d5 push, aiming to challenge White's central control in a flexible manner.
From Black’s perspective, this setup is more defensive and positional rather than aggressively attacking. It focuses on solidifying the center and limiting White’s immediate central and kingside initiatives.
For White, the Bishop’s Opening naturally aims at quick development and pressure on Black’s f7-square, but with 3.d3, White adopts a quieter, more positional approach rather than a sharp central assault.
Overall, this line leads to a slow buildup where both sides maneuver for central control; Black’s ...c6 move supports a potential ...d5 break, so there is an indirect contest for the center rather than immediate occupation.
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 Bishop's Opening: Paulsen Defence, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 9 - Move #7 white
You can also discover how top players used Bishop's Opening: Paulsen Defence to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.