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: Open Variation
The Open Variation of the Ruy Lopez arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. O-O Nxe4. Here, Black immediately challenges White's center by capturing the pawn on e4.
Characteristic: This variation is marked by Black's early capture on e4, which opens lines for quick piece activity but also creates dynamic tension in the center. It deviates from the more common closed Ruy Lopez lines, leading to sharper play.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black's perspective, the move 5...Nxe4 is aggressive and attacking, aiming to seize central space and provoke White. White, meanwhile, often plays actively to regain the pawn and exploit Black’s temporarily exposed knight, so White’s play is also focused on active counterattack rather than defense.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. Black’s early capture on e4 challenges White’s central pawn, and both sides fight for central dominance throughout the opening.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Ruy Lopez: Open, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #9 white
You can also discover how top players used Ruy Lopez: Open to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.