ECO code: C55
Italian Game: Two Knights Defense, Max Lange Attack
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 exd4 4. Bc4 Nf6 5. O-O Bc5 6. e5
Characteristic: This line features an aggressive pawn thrust by White (6. e5) attacking Black's knight on f6, aiming to gain space and initiate active play. It is a sharp and tactical continuation within the Italian Game, leading to complex positions where precise calculation is required.
Playing Style: For White, this move is decidedly attacking, seeking to challenge Black's central and kingside setup immediately. Black must respond carefully to avoid falling into a passive or vulnerable position. Black's play is often defensive or counterattacking, trying to neutralize White’s initiative.
Center Control: Yes, this opening strongly contests the center. White challenges Black’s control of the central squares with the early d4 push and follows up with e5 to dislodge Black’s knight, striving for dominance in the center.
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: Two Knights Defense, Max Lange Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 14 - Move #8 black