ECO code: C54
Italian Game: Giuoco Piano, Greco's Attack
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. c3 Nf6 5. d4 exd4 6. cxd4 Bb4+ 7. Nc3
This variation of the Giuoco Piano is known as Greco's Attack, named after the 17th-century Italian player Gioachino Greco. The defining characteristic of this line is White's early central thrust with d4, challenging Black's control of the center and opening lines for rapid development. The check with Bb4+ by Black aims to disrupt White's setup, but after 7. Nc3, White maintains strong central presence and smooth piece coordination.
Characteristic of this move: The move 7. Nc3 blocks the check while reinforcing control over the center, particularly the d5-square. It also develops a piece to an active square, preparing for castling and further central pressure.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this line is attacking, focusing on rapid development and central dominance to pressure Black early. Black's check with Bb4+ is a tactical attempt to slow White down, but overall Black's position remains somewhat defensive against White's central initiative.
Center Control: Yes, this opening aggressively targets the center. White's moves c3 and d4 directly challenge Black's pawn on e5 and attempt to establish a strong pawn center, which is a hallmark of the Giuoco Piano and Greco's Attack.
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.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Italian Game: Giuoco Piano, Greco's Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #9 black