Petrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Maróczy Variation

A solid and strategic opening that focuses on developing pieces and controlling the center.

The opening begins with a pawn push to e4, followed by a symmetrical response from Black with e5. White then plays Nf3, attacking the e5 pawn, which Black defends with Nf6. After White captures the e5 pawn, Black counters by attacking the knight with d6. White retreats the knight to f3, allowing Black to capture the central pawn on e4. Black continues to develop by pushing d5, solidifying their pawn structure in the center. White develops the light-squared bishop to d3, preparing to castle kingside. Black mirrors White's development by bringing out the dark-squared bishop to e7. White castles kingside, while Black continues development with Nc6. White reinforces the center with Re1, preparing to double rooks on the e-file. Black activates the light-squared bishop with Bg4, pinning the knight on f3 and putting pressure on White's position.