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: Paulsen Attack
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nc4
FEN: rnbqkb1r/ppp2ppp/3p1n2/8/2N1P3/8/PPPP1PPP/RNBQKB1R b KQkq - 1 4
The Paulsen Attack in the Russian Game (also known as the Petrov Defense) is characterized by White's move 4. Nc4, which retreats the knight to a safe square while simultaneously exerting pressure on Black's d6 pawn and maintaining influence over the center. This move is somewhat unusual compared to the more common 4. Nf3 or 4. d4, aiming to keep tension and provoke weaknesses in Black's position.
Characteristic: The knight move to c4 targets Black's central pawn on d6 and prepares to increase White's control over key central squares. It is a flexible move that keeps options open for White, including potential central breaks or development with c3 and d4.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this is a semi-aggressive, positional approach that balances defense with latent attacking prospects. White challenges Black’s setup indirectly, aiming to exploit any inaccuracies. Black, on the other hand, must respond carefully to avoid falling into a passive or cramped position.
Center Control: Yes, this opening continues to contest the center. White indirectly attacks the d6 pawn and maintains pressure on central squares, preparing for a strong central presence in the middlegame.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Russian Game: Paulsen Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #8 black
You can also discover how top players used Russian Game: Paulsen Attack to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.