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: Rosentreter Gambit
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. d4
This gambit is characterized by White’s immediate challenge to Black’s central pawn with 4. d4, aiming to open up the center quickly and gain space. By offering a pawn, White seeks rapid development and active piece play, putting pressure on Black’s position early on.
From White’s perspective, this is an attacking move, as it aggressively contests the center and tries to destabilize Black’s pawn structure. Black must respond carefully to avoid falling behind in development or losing material.
The opening clearly attacks the center, as White’s 4. d4 strikes directly at Black’s e5-pawn and invites open lines for White’s pieces to become more active.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Italian Game: Rosentreter Gambit, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 49 - Move #5 black