Open Games

Every opening in this family begins 1. e4 e5: both sides place a pawn in the centre, and White's second and third moves decide the character of the game. Development is quick, the e- and d-files often open early, and both kings usually castle within the first ten moves. Play centres on the e5 pawn, the d4 and d5 squares, and bishops aimed at f7 and f2.

The Ruy Lopez, 3. Bb5, puts pressure on the knight that guards e5 and leads to long manoeuvring games. The Italian Game, 3. Bc4, aims at f7; modern lines build slowly with c3 and d3. The Scotch Game, 3. d4 exd4, opens the centre at once, giving White space and Black free piece play. The Four Knights Game, 3. Nc3 Nf6, develops symmetrically and often stays level. The Petroff Defence, 2. Nf3 Nf6, counterattacks e4 instead of defending e5 and is known for solid, balanced positions. The Philidor Defence guards e5 with ...d6, accepting a cramped but sturdy setup. The Vienna Game, 2. Nc3, keeps the f-pawn free to advance to f4. The Bishop's Opening, 2. Bc4 Nf6 3. d3, is quiet and can transpose into Italian structures. The King's Gambit, 2. f4 exf4 3. Nf3, gives up a pawn for an open f-file and a fast attack.