Quick answer
The Petrov Defense, or Russian Game, starts 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6. Instead of defending the e5 pawn, Black counterattacks White's e4 pawn. It's one of the most solid defenses in chess. The key rule: after 3.Nxe5, play 3...d6 first, not 3...Nxe4 at once.
- Moves
- 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6
- Best for
- Players who like 1...e5 and want a solid, symmetrical game
- Style
- Solid, very reliable
- Main idea
- Counterattack e4, then reach a balanced position with quick development
The main line, move by move
Here is the main line. Notice that Black plays 3...d6 first, before taking on e4. Step through it, then practice Black's moves.
How the Petrov works
The Petrov is about balance. Black gives White nothing to attack, develops quickly and keeps a symmetrical pawn structure. It's hard to beat, which is why many top players use it in important games.
Black's plan
- Win back the e4 pawn only after ...d6.
- Keep the knight on e4 supported with ...d5.
- Develop quickly and castle; look for ...c6 and ...Bf5 setups.
The trap: don't take on e4 too early
Copying White with 3...Nxe4? walks into a trap. After 4.Qe2, the natural 4...Nf6?? loses the queen to a discovered check. Practice it as White so you never fall for it as Black. (The correct reply to 4.Qe2 is 4...Qe7.)
Common beginner mistakes in the Petrov
- Taking on e4 before ...d6, as shown in the trap above.
- Copying White forever. Symmetry works for a while, but you must check for tactics every move.
- Playing too passively. The Petrov is solid, but you still need active piece play to win.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Petrov Defense good for beginners?
Yes, as long as you learn the move order. Its biggest danger is the early trap shown above.
Why is it called the Russian Game?
It's named after Alexander Petrov, a 19th-century Russian player who analyzed it with Carl Jaenisch.