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.
Four Knights Game
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Nc3 Nf6
The Four Knights Game is a classical and symmetrical opening where both sides develop their knights towards the center early, aiming for solid and balanced play. The characteristic feature of this opening is the peaceful development of knights on their natural squares (c3 and f3 for White, c6 and f6 for Black), leading to a stable and flexible position.
From White’s perspective, this opening is generally considered balanced and can be both attacking or defensive depending on the chosen plan, but it often leads to quiet positional maneuvering rather than immediate aggression. For Black, it is similarly solid and flexible, allowing for various counterattacking possibilities.
The Four Knights Game strongly contests the center, with both sides fighting for control of the key central squares (d4 and e5). The knights placed on c3 and f6 help to support central pawn breaks and prepare for further development.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Four Knights Game, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 240 - Move #5 white
You can also discover how top players used Four Knights Game to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.