Italian Game
Also called the Giuoco Piano.
1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4
An opening for White
The friendliest first opening: develop fast and aim at f7.
The idea
White develops the knight and bishop quickly and points the bishop at f7, the weakest square in Black's camp. It follows the opening principles perfectly, which is why it's the best first opening for beginners.
The plan
Castle early, play d3 and c3, and build a strong centre with d4 when ready. The bishop on c4 and knight on f3 already eye Black's kingside.
One tip for beginners
Don't rush the attack on f7. Finish developing and castle first - the pressure builds itself.
What to watch out for
The 'Fried Liver' and early Ng5 ideas are tempting but double-edged; as a beginner, solid development beats forcing tactics you haven't calculated.
Who plays it
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