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: Modern Attack
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. d4
FEN: rnbqkb1r/pppp1ppp/5n2/4p3/3PP3/5N2/PPP2PPP/RNBQKB1R b KQkq - 0 3
The Modern Attack in the Russian Game arises after White challenges Black's central presence immediately with 3.d4. This move is characteristic for its direct strike at the center, aiming to open lines and gain space quickly.
From White's perspective, this is an attacking approach, seeking active play and early confrontation in the center. Black, on the other hand, often adopts a more defensive or counterattacking stance, aiming to neutralize White's central initiative and exploit any overextensions.
Overall, this opening strongly attacks the center, as White immediately contests Black's pawn on e5 and tries to establish a dominant central presence.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Russian Game: Modern Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 68 - Move #5 white
You can also discover how top players used Russian Game: Modern Attack to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.