Vienna Game · C28

Stanley Variation, Three Knights Variation

1. e4 e5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6

Nc3 first keeps f4 available: White chooses between a kingside pawn storm and quiet Italian-style play, and Black must be ready for both.

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. Nc3 Develops the knight to c3, eyeing d5 and e4. It also props up the e4 pawn. Theory calls this the Vienna Game.
• 2... Nc6 Develops the knight to c6, eyeing d4 and e5. It also props up the e5 pawn. Theory calls this the Max Lange Defense.

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