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.
Ruy Lopez: Morphy Defense, Modern Steinitz Defense
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 d6
This line is a variation of the classic Ruy Lopez opening where Black responds to White’s bishop retreat with 4...d6, reinforcing the center and preparing a solid but somewhat passive setup. The move d6 characterizes this as a flexible but defensive approach, aiming to support the e5 pawn and limit White’s central activity.
From Black’s perspective, this is a defensive move that prioritizes solidity over immediate counterattack. White, on the other hand, maintains a slight initiative and can continue to build pressure on the center and kingside.
The opening does focus on the center, but rather than challenging it aggressively, Black opts to fortify their central pawn on e5. White typically aims to increase control over the center and exploit Black’s somewhat cramped position.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Ruy Lopez: Morphy Defense, Modern Steinitz Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #8 white
You can also discover how top players used Ruy Lopez: Morphy Defense, Modern Steinitz Defense to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.