Russian Game: Classical Attack, Chigorin Variation

A chess opening characterized by sharp play and tactical opportunities, often leading to imbalanced positions and dynamic middlegames.

1. e4 2. e5 3. Nf3 4. Nf6 5. Nxe5 6. d6 7. Nf3 8. Nxe4 9. d4 10. d5 11. Bd3 12. Nc6 13. O-O 14. Be7 15. Re1

The opening in question is a popular and aggressive choice that arises from the Petrov Defense. It is named after a renowned Russian chess player who was one of the leading players in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The opening is characterized by sharp play and tactical opportunities, often leading to imbalanced positions and dynamic middlegames.

In this variation, White aims to exploit the central pawn majority and open lines for their pieces, while Black seeks counterplay on the wings and tries to undermine White's pawn center. The opening is known for its rich strategic and tactical ideas, making it an excellent choice for players who enjoy complex and challenging positions.

Both sides have multiple options and plans at their disposal, which can lead to a wide variety of middlegame positions. This variation is considered to be one of the most aggressive and ambitious ways for White to play against the Petrov Defense, and it has been employed by many top-level players throughout chess history.

While the opening can lead to sharp and double-edged positions, it also requires a deep understanding of the resulting pawn structures and piece coordination. Properly handling the resulting middlegame positions is crucial for both sides, as mistakes can be severely punished. Overall, this opening is an exciting and combative choice that can lead to thrilling battles on the chessboard.

Frequency: 21.7 %Stockfish score: 0.2, depth 33
Games Statistics:
White/Draws/Black
41.2%
13.8%
45%
Bookmoves score:
RateWhiteBlack
0...180047.652.4
1800...200057.256.9
2000...220055.356.6
2200...250055.953.2
2500...57.849

Variations:

Russian Game: Classical Attack, Berger Variation

The Russian Game: Classical Attack, Berger Variation is a chess opening that involves a strategic pawn sacrifice to gain control of the center and develop the pieces harmoniously.

Frequency: 13.6 %

Russian Game: Classical Attack, Krause Variation

The Russian Game: Classical Attack, Krause Variation is a chess opening that involves a strategic pawn sacrifice to gain control of the center and develop the pieces harmoniously.

Frequency: 0.3 %