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: Classical Variation, Center Attack
This opening arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. c3 Nf6 5. d4. White's fifth move, d4, is the hallmark of the Center Attack, aiming to challenge Black's control of the center directly.
Characteristic: The move 5. d4 aggressively strikes at Black's central pawn on e5 and the bishop on c5, seeking to open lines for White's pieces, especially the light-squared bishop and queen. The c3 pawn supports this central push and prepares for a potential d4 advance.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this variation is clearly attacking, as it initiates immediate central tension and aims to seize the initiative. Black must respond carefully to maintain balance, often leading to tactical and open positions.
Center Control: Yes, this opening focuses on attacking the center. White challenges Black's pawn on e5 and aims to establish a strong central presence, which is critical for active piece play.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Italian Game: Classical Variation, Center Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 25 - Move #8 black
You can also discover how top players used Italian Game: Classical Variation, Center Attack to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.