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.
Russian Game: Classical Attack
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nf3 Nxe4 5. d4
Characteristic: This line is a classical approach within the Petroff Defense (Russian Game) where White quickly challenges Black’s central presence after the initial exchanges. The move 5.d4 strikes at the center, aiming to regain space and open lines for development.
Playing Style: From White's perspective, this is an attacking move that seeks to seize control of the center and develop actively. Black’s position is more defensive here, as Black tries to maintain material equality and counter White’s central initiative.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. White’s 5.d4 is a central pawn thrust aiming to challenge Black’s knight on e4 and establish a strong foothold in the center.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Russian Game: Classical Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 16 - Move #8 white
You can also discover how top players used Russian Game: Classical Attack to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.