Petrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Mason Variation position after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nxe5 d6 4.Nf3 Nxe4 5.d4 d5 6.Bd3 Be7 7.O-O O-O. White: pawn on d4, bishop on d3, knight on f3, pawn on a2, pawn on b2, pawn on c2, pawn on f2, pawn on g2, pawn on h2, rook on a1, knight on b1, bishop on c1, queen on d1, rook on f1, king on g1. Black: rook on a8, knight on b8, bishop on c8, queen on d8, rook on f8, king on g8, pawn on a7, pawn on b7, pawn on c7, bishop on e7, pawn on f7, pawn on g7, pawn on h7, pawn on d5, knight on e4.
Petrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Mason Variation is a chess opening that arises after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nxe5 d6 4.Nf3 Nxe4 5.d4 d5 6.Bd3 Be7 7.O-O O-O. It is classified C42 in the ECO system, and the position after these moves has white to move. The Russian Game, also known as the Petrov or Petroff Defense, ignores the attack on e5 and counterattacks e4 instead. It has a reputation as one of the most solid defences in chess and a notorious reputation for producing draws at the highest level.
Strategic character
Symmetrical and simplifying. Many lines lead to early exchanges and level endgames, which is exactly the point for a player wanting a reliable answer to 1.e4. Sharper attempts by White exist but require Black to know a limited amount of theory.
Who should play it
Players who want a low-risk, low-theory answer to 1.e4 and are content to play for equality first.
This line is a variation within the Petrov's Defense 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.Nxe5 d6 4.Nf3 Nxe4 5.d4 d5 6.Bd3 Be7 7.O-O O-O.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Petrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Mason Variation?
The Petrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Mason Variation is a chess opening that arises after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nxe5 d6 4.Nf3 Nxe4 5.d4 d5 6.Bd3 Be7 7.O-O O-O. It is classified C42 in the ECO system. The Russian Game, also known as the Petrov or Petroff Defense, ignores the attack on e5 and counterattacks e4 instead. It has a reputation as one of the most solid defences in chess and a notorious reputation for producing draws at the highest level.
What are the moves of the Petrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Mason Variation?
1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nxe5 d6 4.Nf3 Nxe4 5.d4 d5 6.Bd3 Be7 7.O-O O-O. After these moves it is white to move.
Is the Petrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Mason Variation good for beginners?
Players who want a low-risk, low-theory answer to 1.e4 and are content to play for equality first.