Italian Game · C56

Two Knights Defense, Max Lange Attack, Berger Variation

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. d4 exd4 5. O-O Bc5 6. e5 d5 7. exf6 dxc4 8. Re1+ Be6 9. Ng5 Qd5 10. Nc3 Qf5 11. g4 Qg6 12. Nce4 Bb6 13. f4 O-O-O

The structure hands White the half-open d-file - rook pressure down it is a standing plan. Black comes out ahead on material - White needs concrete play to justify it. Kings castle on opposite wings - expect pawn storms racing at both kings.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. e4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 1... e5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d4, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 2. Nf3 Develops the knight to f3, eyeing d4 and e5.
• 2... Nc6 Develops the knight to c6, eyeing d4 and e5. It also props up the e5 pawn.

Sign in to read every move's note and train this line — 22 more moves in this line, 26 in all.