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: Three Knights Game
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nc3
FEN: rnbqkb1r/pppp1ppp/5n2/4p3/4P3/2N2N2/PPPP1PPP/R1BQKB1R b KQkq - 3 3
The Three Knights Game arises after White develops the knight to c3 on move 3, supporting the central e4-pawn and preparing for further central control. This move characteristic reflects a flexible and classical development approach rather than an immediate aggressive strike.
From White’s perspective, this opening is generally balanced but leans towards a positional and developmental style rather than direct attacking. It supports control of the center but doesn’t launch an immediate assault. Black, by responding with Nf6, challenges White’s e4-pawn and prepares counterplay, so Black's stance is more defensive yet active.
The opening does focus on the center control, with both sides contesting the central squares e4, d4, e5, and d5. White’s 3.Nc3 helps to reinforce this control and prepares for possible central pawn advances like d4.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Russian Game: Three Knights Game, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 232 - Move #4 black
You can also discover how top players used Russian Game: Three Knights Game to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.