ECO code: C43
Russian Game: Modern Attack
The Russian Game, also known as the Petrov Defense, begins with the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6. The Modern Attack variation continues with 3. d4 exd4. This line challenges Black's control of the center immediately after the symmetrical start.
Characteristic: The move 3. d4 is a direct and assertive attempt by White to seize the center and open lines for rapid development. By doing so, White aims to exploit the momentary tension in the center before Black completes development.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this is an attacking move, aiming to claim central space and initiative early on. Black's capture on d4 is somewhat defensive, aiming to reduce White's central presence but can lead to dynamic counterplay.
Center Control: This opening definitely focuses on attacking the center. White challenges Black's pawn on e5 by pushing d4, striving to dominate the central squares and open lines for active piece play.
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: Modern Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 31 - Move #5 white