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, Anderssen Variation
This variation arises after the moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. d3. Instead of immediately challenging Black’s center with d4, White adopts a more modest and flexible approach by supporting the center and preparing for a slower buildup.
Characteristic of 5. d3: This move is a quieter, more positional choice compared to the mainline Ruy Lopez where White pushes d4 early. It solidifies White’s control over the e4 pawn and keeps the center tension low, aiming for a gradual buildup rather than immediate confrontation.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this move is generally defensive and positional, focusing on solid development and maintaining a strong pawn structure. For Black, it signals less immediate central tension, allowing for flexible development and counterplay opportunities.
Center Control: White maintains control over the center with pawns on e4 and d3 but does not aggressively challenge Black’s central pawns right away. This leads to a more restrained battle for the center, with both sides developing their pieces before any major central pawn breaks.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Ruy Lopez: Morphy Defense, Anderssen Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 9 - Move #7 white
You can also discover how top players used Ruy Lopez: Morphy Defense, Anderssen Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.