ECO code: C62
Spanish: Old Steinitz, 4.d4 exd4
This opening arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 d6 4. d4 exd4. It is a variation of the Spanish (Ruy López) where Black adopts the Old Steinitz Defense setup with an early ...d6, aiming for a solid but somewhat passive stance.
Characteristic of the move 4.d4: White immediately challenges Black’s central presence and tries to open lines for rapid development. By pushing d4, White seeks to undermine Black’s pawn on e5 and open the center to gain space and activity.
From White’s perspective, this move is attacking in nature, as it aims to seize control of the center and open the position to exploit White’s lead in development. Black’s response with exd4 is more defensive, intending to relieve central tension and stabilize their position.
Overall, this opening strongly attacks the center by White, aiming to gain central space and open lines, while Black tries to maintain a solid foothold and avoid early weaknesses.
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 Spanish: Old Steinitz, 4.d4 exd4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 12 - Move #8 white