Ruy Lopez: Schliemann Defense, Tartakower Variation

A sharp and aggressive chess opening that leads to imbalanced positions and offers chances for both sides to play for a win.

The Schliemann Defense, Tartakower Variation, is a dynamic and double-edged opening that arises from the Ruy Lopez. It is characterized by an early pawn break with f5, which challenges White's central pawn on e4. The Tartakower Variation specifically involves the move Nc3, which aims to recapture the pawn on e4 with the knight, rather than the pawn. This leads to a position where both sides have chances for active play and winning chances.

In this opening, Black sacrifices a pawn early on to open lines and create counterplay. The f-file becomes a potential source of activity for Black's rook, while the e5 pawn can become a target for White's pieces. White's main challenge is to consolidate their extra pawn and neutralize Black's counterplay, while Black aims to create complications and exploit any weaknesses in White's position.

The Tartakower Variation is named after the famous Polish chess Grandmaster Savielly Tartakower, who contributed significantly to chess opening theory. This variation is considered to be one of the more solid options for Black in the Schliemann Defense, as it avoids some of the more dangerous lines that can arise from other move orders.

While not as popular as some other lines in the Ruy Lopez, the Schliemann Defense, Tartakower Variation, remains a viable and interesting choice for players who enjoy sharp, unbalanced positions and are willing to take risks for winning chances.