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
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. c3 Nf6
This variation is characterized by White's move 4. c3, which prepares to build a strong pawn center by supporting the advance d2-d4. Black's response 4...Nf6 develops the knight actively, targeting the e4 pawn and preparing to castle.
From White's perspective, this line is typically attacking, aiming to control the center quickly and open lines for an early initiative. Black's setup is more defensive but flexible, focusing on solid development while challenging White's center.
The opening strongly attacks the center, with White planning to push d4 soon to establish central dominance and open the position for tactical opportunities.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Italian Game: Classical Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 46 - Move #8 white
You can also discover how top players used Italian Game: Classical Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.