ECO code: C69
Ruy Lopez: Exchange Variation, King's Bishop Variation
This line arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Bxc6 dxc6 5. O-O Bd6. Here, White exchanges the bishop on b5 for Black’s knight on c6 early, doubling Black’s c-pawns but giving Black the bishop pair. Black responds with ...Bd6, developing the king’s bishop to an active square, supporting the center and preparing to castle.
Characteristic: The key feature of this variation is the early exchange on c6, which weakens Black’s pawn structure but gives Black the bishop pair. The move ...Bd6 is somewhat uncommon here and aims to reinforce central control and prepare kingside safety.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this variation is generally more positional and slightly less aggressive compared to other Ruy Lopez lines, focusing on exploiting Black’s pawn weaknesses rather than immediate attacks. Black’s ...Bd6 supports central presence and prepares for development, balancing between defense and counterattack.
Center Control: Yes, both sides fight for central influence. White’s e4 and Black’s e5 pawns are central stakes, and Black’s ...Bd6 supports the e5 pawn, helping maintain a strong hold 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 Ruy Lopez: Exchange Variation, King's Bishop Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 20 - Move #6 black