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, Giuoco Pianissimo
This opening arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. c3 Nf6 5. d3. The Giuoco Pianissimo ("very quiet game") is a slow, strategic variation of the Italian Game, where White opts for a solid and flexible setup rather than immediate confrontation.
Characteristic of 5. d3: This move supports the center and prepares to develop the dark-squared bishop, while maintaining a strong pawn structure. It avoids early tactical skirmishes and keeps tension in the position.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this variation is generally more positional and somewhat defensive, focusing on building a stable center and gradual development rather than direct attacks. Black can respond actively or also choose a quiet setup, making the position rich in strategic maneuvering.
Center Control: White's play with c3 and d3 supports the center but does not immediately challenge Black's central pawns aggressively. Instead, it aims for a slow buildup, controlling the center solidly rather than attacking it directly.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Italian Game: Classical Variation, Giuoco Pianissimo, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 25 - Move #8 white
You can also discover how top players used Italian Game: Classical Variation, Giuoco Pianissimo to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.