Italian Game: Classical Variation, Center Attack
Italian Game: Classical Variation, Center Attack
Definition
The Italian Game: Classical Variation, Center Attack is an aggressive sub-line of the Giuoco Piano (ECO code C53) that begins with the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. c3 Nf6 5. d4. White immediately strikes at the heart of Black’s pawn on e5 and challenges the bishop on c5, hoping to seize rapid central space and open lines for piece play.
Standard Move Order & Key Position
The critical position after 5.d4 usually continues:
- …exd4 6. cxd4 Bb4+ (or 6…Bb6)
- 7. Nc3 d5 8. exd5 Nxd5
White has gained a strong pawn duo on d4–e5, open diagonals for both bishops, and targets on f7 and b7. Black, meanwhile, aims to undermine the center and exploit the half-open e-file.
Strategic Themes
- Central Majority: White’s pawns on d4 and e5 can cramp Black if maintained. Black frequently counters with …d5 or piece pressure on e5.
- Piece Activity: Both sides develop quickly; rooks often hurry to e1/e8 and d1/d8.
- Open Lines: The early pawn exchanges leave open files (especially the e- and c-files) where tactical shots—pins, forks, and discovered attacks—are commonplace.
- King Safety: Because the struggle centers on the middle of the board, castling (usually short for White, either side for Black) is a high priority.
Historical Context
The Center Attack was popular in the 19th century when open games dominated tournament play. Masters such as Adolf Anderssen and Johannes Zukertort employed it to create sharp tactical battles. Its popularity waned in the 20th century as positional lines like the Giuoco Pianissimo and the Ruy López took center stage, but it remains a useful surprise weapon, especially in rapid and blitz.
Illustrative Game
One of the earliest model encounters is Anderssen – Mayet, Berlin 1851, ending in a violent king hunt. Modern grandmasters occasionally revive the line as well; see Jobava – Volokitin, European Championship 2010, where White launches a blistering attack down the e- and f-files.
Typical Tactical Motifs
- e5–e6 Break: When Black’s king is castled, the advance e5–e6 can rupture pawn cover and unleash bishops on c4 & c1.
- Pin on the c4–f7 diagonal: After …Bb4+, the line Bc3 …dxe4 can leave Black’s f7 weak if not timely reinforced.
- Greek Gift Themes: With the bishop on c4 and knight on g5, the classic sacrifice Bxh7+ sometimes appears if Black mishandles development.
Practical Tips for Players
- For White: Know the critical pawn break e5–e6 and the tactical follow-ups (Qh5, Ng5, Bxf7+). Development speed outweighs material considerations.
- For Black: Challenge White’s center early with …d5, …d6, or timely piece pressure. Avoid passive setups; the bishop on c5 is powerful only if it stays active.
Interesting Facts & Anecdotes
- The move 4.c3 was originally introduced as a quiet, positional idea (preparing d4) by Italian priest and theoretician Gioachino Greco in the 17th century. The Center Attack simply accelerates Greco’s plan by one tempo.
- Although labeled “Classical,” databases show that fewer than 2 % of high-level Italian Games reach the Center Attack today—making it an effective surprise against well-booked opponents.
- Grandmaster Baadur Jobava used the line to defeat several 2700-rated players in rapid events, prompting a brief resurgence among online streamers.