Italian Game: Evans Gambit, Tartakower Attack

The Italian Game: Evans Gambit, Tartakower Attack is a sharp and aggressive chess opening that aims to quickly challenge Black's center and create attacking chances.

1. e4 2. e5 3. Nf3 4. Nc6 5. Bc4 6. Bc5 7. b4 8. Bxb4 9. c3 10. Ba5 11. d4 12. d6 13. Qb3

The opening is characterized by an early pawn sacrifice by White, which aims to accelerate their development and open lines for their pieces. This gambit was popularized in the 19th century by the Welsh sea captain William Davies Evans, and it has been employed by many top players since then, including Garry Kasparov and Viswanathan Anand.

In this variation, White sacrifices a pawn on b4 to lure Black's dark-squared bishop away from the center. After Black captures the pawn, White plays c3, preparing to recapture the pawn with their d-pawn and open the center. Black retreats their bishop to a5, and White continues with d4, striking at the heart of Black's pawn structure.

The Tartakower Attack, named after the Polish Grandmaster Savielly Tartakower, is a specific line within the Evans Gambit where White plays Qb3, putting pressure on the f7 square and indirectly attacking Black's bishop on a5. This move can lead to sharp tactical battles and requires precise play from both sides.

Black must be cautious in their response, as careless moves can lead to quick defeats. However, if Black can weather the initial storm and consolidate their position, they may be able to exploit White's pawn weaknesses and gain a material advantage in the middlegame.

Frequency: 53 %Stockfish score: -0.5, depth 50
Games Statistics:
White/Draws/Black
51.9%
5.5%
42.7%
Bookmoves score:
RateWhiteBlack
0...180052.447.6
1800...200058.152.5
2000...220061.156.6
2200...250056.855.5
2500...53.150.9