Four Knights Game: Spanish Variation, Alatortsev Variation

This opening is a solid and flexible choice for White, aiming to control the center and develop pieces harmoniously.

The opening begins with the standard e4 e5 Nf3 Nc6, followed by Nc3 Nf6, setting up a symmetrical pawn structure. White then plays Bb5, pinning the knight on c6 and preparing to castle kingside. Black responds with Bb4, mirroring White's bishop placement. After both sides castle, White plays d3 to support the e4 pawn and prepare for central expansion. Black plays Qe7, connecting the rooks and preparing to potentially double on the e-file. White then continues with Ne2, repositioning the knight to potentially support a central pawn push. Black plays d5, challenging White's central pawn structure and aiming to open up the position. This opening typically leads to a balanced and strategic middlegame where both sides have chances for active play.