ECO code: C55
Italian Game: Two Knights Defense, Perreux Variation
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. d4 exd4 5. Ng5
This variation arises after White aggressively challenges Black's central presence with 4. d4, and follows up with 5. Ng5, aiming directly at Black's vulnerable f7-square. The characteristic move 5. Ng5 is a sharp, attacking thrust that seeks tactical opportunities by putting immediate pressure on Black's position.
From White's perspective, this opening is decidedly attacking, focusing on quick initiative and potential threats against Black's king and center. Black must respond carefully to avoid falling into dangerous traps.
The Perreux Variation strongly targets the center, with White contesting control of the key central squares early on and using active piece play to seize the initiative.
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, Perreux Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #7 black