Italian Game Traxler Counterattack
Italian Game: Traxler Counterattack
Definition
The Traxler Counterattack—also called the Wilkes-Barre Variation—is a sharp, tactical branch of the Italian Game that arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. Ng5 Bc5!? (ECO code C57). Instead of the “normal” 4…d5 (Two Knights Defense), Black provocatively places the bishop on c5, offering seemingly dangerous sacrifices on f7 in return for an all-out attack against the white king.
Typical Move Order & Main Ideas
Standard branching paths:
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5. Nxf7 (the most ambitious)
- 5…Bxf2+ 6.Kxf2 Nxe4+ 7.Kg1 (or 7.Ke1) when both kings are exposed and every tempo counts.
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5. Bxf7+ (safer)
- 5…Kf8 6.Bb3 d5!, Black gains time to open lines while the bishop on b3 is temporarily out of play.
Strategic & Tactical Themes
- King Safety: Both sides quickly lose castling rights; accuracy is critical.
- Piece Activity over Material: Black often sacrifices one–two pawns for rapid development and open lines.
- Central Tension: …d5 and …Nxe4 aim to smash the e4-d5 squares before White consolidates.
- Calculation-Heavy: Memorized lines and concrete tactics frequently trump general principles.
Historical Significance
The counterattack is named after the Czech master Karel Traxler, who unleashed it in 1890. In the United States the line became popular through analysis circulated in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania—hence the alternate name “Wilkes-Barre Variation.” Its controversial reputation (bordering on “unsound yet dangerous”) has fascinated club and correspondence players for more than a century.
Illustrative Game
One of the earliest showcases is Traxler’s own brilliancy: Karel Traxler vs. Reverend G. W. Salwe, Prague 1890. The line below follows modern notation through the fireworks stage:
The game continued with relentless tactics, culminating in a picturesque mate on move 29. Though modern engines show improvements for both colors, the game remains a model of Traxler-style aggression.
Modern Usage
At elite level the Traxler is rare, but it occasionally appears as a surprise weapon in blitz and rapid play. Grandmasters such as Hikaru Nakamura and Baadur Jobava have tested it online, banking on its shock value. In classical events it is mostly seen when a lower-rated player seeks complications against a favorite.
Interesting Facts & Anecdotes
- In 1997 the line was used in correspondence chess with computer assistance; several tries once considered refutations were overturned by engine discoveries.
- Because both kings often stand on e1 and e8, commentators jokingly call some main lines a “double king walk in the center.”
- A famous mnemonic in playing the Black side is “When in doubt, check!”—there is almost always a forcing check available.
- According to database statistics, club players below 1800 rating score nearly 55 % with Black—evidence of its practical sting even if theory favors White with perfect play.
Key Takeaways
- The Traxler is a high-risk, high-reward counterattack suitable for tactically inclined players.
- Precise calculation is mandatory; one tempo can decide the game.
- White should choose between the critical 5.Nxf7 and the safer 5.Bxf7+, study main lines, and keep the king out of immediate danger.
- Black must be comfortable sacrificing material and navigating messy positions in return for dynamic chances.