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: Spanish Variation
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Bb5
This variation arises when White develops the bishop to b5 in the Four Knights Game, combining elements of the classical Spanish (Ruy López) with the Four Knights setup. The characteristic of this move is that White pins Black's knight on c6, aiming to increase pressure on Black's central control and potentially provoke structural weaknesses.
From White's perspective, this is a flexible and mildly aggressive move that supports central control and prepares for kingside development, thus leaning towards a slightly attacking stance. Black, in response, can remain solid and develop comfortably, so the position remains balanced with chances for both sides.
Regarding the center, this variation indirectly attacks central squares by targeting the knight that supports Black's central pawn on e5. While it does not immediately challenge the center with pawns, it exerts positional pressure to influence the central battle.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Four Knights Game: Spanish Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 75 - Move #5 white
You can also discover how top players used Four Knights Game: Spanish Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.