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: Giuoco Pianissimo, Normal
The Italian Game begins with the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. d3 Bc5. This line, known as the Giuoco Pianissimo ("very quiet game"), adopts a slow and strategic approach rather than immediate tactical clashes.
Characteristic: The move 4.d3 is the hallmark of the Giuoco Pianissimo. It supports the e4 pawn and prepares for a solid, flexible development without committing to early central tension. This move keeps options open and avoids sharp lines like the Evans Gambit or aggressive d4 pushes.
Playing Style: As White, this setup leans towards a positional and somewhat defensive approach, focusing on piece development and maintaining a strong pawn structure. Black's 4...Bc5 mirrors White's bishop placement, aiming for balanced piece activity. Both sides typically build up slowly, preparing for a middlegame with maneuvering rather than immediate attacks.
Center Control: While the center is not contested aggressively here, White maintains a solid presence with pawns on e4 and d3. The absence of an early d4 means the center is more controlled than attacked. This opening emphasizes steady control and gradual buildup over direct central confrontation.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Italian Game: Giuoco Pianissimo, Normal, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 67 - Move #7 black
You can also discover how top players used Italian Game: Giuoco Pianissimo, Normal to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.