Vienna Game
1.e4 e5 2.Nc3
An opening for White
A flexible second move that keeps White's options wide open.
Show me the opening
0 / 3 moves
The idea
White develops the knight to c3 instead of the more common Nf3, keeping the f-pawn free to advance to f4. This can lead to a King's Gambit-style attack or a solid Closed Vienna.
The plan
Either play f4 for an aggressive approach, or follow up with Bc4 and Nf3 for a quieter game. The Vienna is more flexible than it looks.
What to play next
After the aggressive 3.f4, Black counters with 3...d5 to open the position. White captures on e5 and Black recaptures with the knight. After Nf3, Black develops the bishop to e7 and prepares to castle. The position is unbalanced and both sides must play carefully.
1.e4 e5 2.Nc3 Nf6 3.f4 d5 4.fxe5 Nxe4 5.Nf3 Be7
Watch the typical continuation
Show me the opening
0 / 10 moves
One tip for beginners
After 2.Nc3 Nf6 3.f4 is the Vienna Game's most aggressive line. But 3.Bc4 leads to calmer positions that are easier to play for beginners.
What to watch out for
If you play 3.f4, Black can reply 3...d5! grabbing the centre. Be prepared with 4.fxe5 or 4.d3.
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