Four Knights Game: Spanish Variation, Gunsberg Counterattack position after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nc3 Nc6 4.Bb5 Bb4 5.O-O O-O 6.Nd5 Nxd5 7.exd5 e4. White: bishop on b5, pawn on d5, knight on f3, pawn on a2, pawn on b2, pawn on c2, pawn on d2, pawn on f2, pawn on g2, pawn on h2, rook on a1, bishop on c1, queen on d1, rook on f1, king on g1. Black: rook on a8, bishop on c8, queen on d8, rook on f8, king on g8, pawn on a7, pawn on b7, pawn on c7, pawn on d7, pawn on f7, pawn on g7, pawn on h7, knight on c6, bishop on b4, pawn on e4.
Four Knights Game: Spanish Variation, Gunsberg Counterattack is a chess opening that arises after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nc3 Nc6 4.Bb5 Bb4 5.O-O O-O 6.Nd5 Nxd5 7.exd5 e4. It is classified C49 in the ECO system, and the position after these moves has white to move. The Four Knights Game develops all four knights before either side commits a bishop. It is symmetrical, sound, and among the most straightforward openings to learn, which makes it a common recommendation for players first moving beyond basic principles.
Strategic character
Usually quiet and balanced, though the Scotch Four Knights and the Belgrade Gambit inject real sharpness. The symmetry means Black equalises comfortably in the main lines.
Who should play it
Improving players who want a principled, low-theory opening, and anyone looking for a solid game rather than an early fight.
This line is a variation within the Four Knights Game family. The strategic ideas above describe the family as a whole; this particular line reaches them by the move order 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nc3 Nc6 4.Bb5 Bb4 5.O-O O-O 6.Nd5 Nxd5 7.exd5 e4.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Four Knights Game: Spanish Variation, Gunsberg Counterattack?
The Four Knights Game: Spanish Variation, Gunsberg Counterattack is a chess opening that arises after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nc3 Nc6 4.Bb5 Bb4 5.O-O O-O 6.Nd5 Nxd5 7.exd5 e4. It is classified C49 in the ECO system. The Four Knights Game develops all four knights before either side commits a bishop. It is symmetrical, sound, and among the most straightforward openings to learn, which makes it a common recommendation for players first moving beyond basic principles.
What are the moves of the Four Knights Game: Spanish Variation, Gunsberg Counterattack?
1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nc3 Nc6 4.Bb5 Bb4 5.O-O O-O 6.Nd5 Nxd5 7.exd5 e4. After these moves it is white to move.
Is the Four Knights Game: Spanish Variation, Gunsberg Counterattack good for beginners?
Improving players who want a principled, low-theory opening, and anyone looking for a solid game rather than an early fight.