White’s typical plans
White often supports the center with c3 and d4, castles kingside, and places rooks on e1 and d1. Many lines revolve around building pressure against e5 and f7, while keeping an eye on Black’s queenside development.
Italian Game — quick development and open lines.
The Italian Game arises after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4. White aims for rapid development, central control, and direct pressure against the f7-square. Positions are often open and tactical, making this opening perfect for learning classical attacking patterns.
- Ideal for club players learning basic tactics and piece activity
- Leads to open positions with clear development goals
- Teaches classic attacking themes on f7 and along the e-file
Key ideas for White
- Play for quick development with c3 and d4 in many lines.
- Target the f7-square with coordinated pieces.
- Castle early and connect rooks on central files.
In our Trainer, you’ll practice the exact move orders, not just the ideas.
Plans for both sides
Black’s typical plans
Black chooses between solid systems (like ...Bc5 and ...d6) or more tactical options (such as the Two Knights Defense). Good piece coordination and timely central breaks with ...d5 are key themes.
What you’ll train
In the Trainer you’ll see positions from real Italian Game lines where it is White’s move. Your task is to find the correct move from your repertoire. The app gives instant feedback and can auto-advance to the next position.
Train the Italian Game with Free Chess Trainer
- Open the Trainer with the button below.
- Make sure “Italian Game” is selected as your opening.
- Play the moves on the board when it’s your turn.
- Repeat lines until you can recall them without mistakes.