ECO code: C42
Russian Game: Nimzowitsch Attack
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nf3 Nxe4 5. Nc3
This line arises from the Petrov Defense (also known as the Russian Game), where Black challenges White's central control early on. The Nimzowitsch Attack with 5. Nc3 is characteristic for developing the knight to a natural square while putting immediate pressure on Black’s centralized knight on e4.
Characteristics: The move 5. Nc3 is a direct and energetic way for White to challenge Black’s central presence. It aims to regain central control and develop quickly, leveraging the temporary advanced position of Black’s knight.
Attacking or Defensive: When playing as White, this opening is attacking in nature as it actively contests the center and seeks to exploit Black’s slightly exposed knight on e4. For Black, the setup is somewhat defensive, aiming to hold the center and equalize.
Center Control: Yes, this opening strongly focuses on contesting and attacking the center. White’s 5. Nc3 directly challenges Black’s knight in the center, reinforcing White’s central influence.
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 Russian Game: Nimzowitsch Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #8 white