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.
Italian Game
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4
FEN: r1bqkbnr/pppp1ppp/2n5/4p3/2B1P3/5N2/PPPP1PPP/RNBQK2R b KQkq - 3 3
The Italian Game is one of the oldest and most classical openings in chess. The move 3.Bc4 develops the bishop to a strong, active square, aiming directly at Black’s vulnerable f7 pawn—the weakest point in Black's position early in the game. This move is characteristic for its focus on rapid piece development and control of key central and attacking squares.
From White’s perspective, the Italian Game is primarily an attacking opening, aiming to put immediate pressure on Black’s center and kingside. Black must respond carefully to avoid early tactical threats.
Regarding the center, the Italian Game supports control of the central squares, especially d4 and e5, through piece pressure rather than immediate pawn confrontation. White attacks the center indirectly by developing pieces that influence these critical squares, preparing for eventual central pawn advances.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Italian Game, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1256 - Move #4 white
You can also discover how top players used Italian Game to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.