Berlin Defense (2...Nf6)
1.e4 e5 2.Bc4 2...Nf6 3.d3
Modern main line. After 3.d3 Nc6 4.Nf3, we reach an Italian-style game but sidestep Petrov Defense (since Black has committed to ...Nc6, not ...Nxe4).
For White· ECO C23–C24· beginner
Bishop's Opening
Aim the bishop at f7 from move 2. Bypass Nf3 and dictate the middlegame structure.
1.e4 e5 2.Bc4
What is the Bishop's Opening?
The Bishop's Opening (1.e4 e5 2.Bc4) aims the bishop at f7 immediately, before developing the knight. It's one of the oldest openings in chess, used by Philidor and Morphy. Modern interpretation often transposes to the Vienna Game (after Nc3) or the Italian Game (after Nf3). But the pure Bishop's Opening with 2...Nf6 3.d3 leads to slow maneuvering positions that avoid Petrov Defense theory entirely, a significant practical advantage. Larry Kaufman's system with 2.Bc4 and 3.d3 has become popular at all levels.
Main variations
Each variation below comes with a diagram and the main plan. Click "Train this opening" to drill every line with spaced repetition.
Boden-Kieseritzky Gambit
1.e4 e5 2.Bc4 2...Nf6 3.Nf3 Nxe4 4.Nc3
A sharp line where White sacrifices the e4 pawn for development. Black must play precisely to hold the position.
Classical (2...Bc5)
1.e4 e5 2.Bc4 2...Bc5 3.c3
Black mirrors White's bishop development. After 3.c3 Nf6 4.d4, we transpose to the Italian Game Giuoco Piano.
How deep should you study this?
Below 1400
Play the Bishop's Opening to learn the ideas before the Italian Game, fewer tactical pitfalls than the Fried Liver/Two Knights lines.
1400–1800
Use 2.Bc4 3.d3 specifically to avoid Petrov Defense players. Study the transition to Vienna Game (with Nc3) and Italian Game (with Nf3).
1800+
Add the Boden-Kieseritzky Gambit for sharp play. As an anti-Petrov weapon at higher levels, 2.Bc4 remains completely valid.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bishop's Opening any good?
Yes, particularly as an anti-Petrov weapon. Kaufman's system (2.Bc4 3.d3) has been used at the top level including by Carlsen in blitz games. Less theory than the Italian Game.
What is the difference between the Bishop's Opening and the Italian Game?
The Bishop's Opening plays 2.Bc4 before 2.Nf3. This avoids the Petrov Defense (2...Nf6) entirely and can transpose to the Vienna (with Nc3) or Italian (with Nf3). Move-order flexibility.
Should Black play 2...Nf6 or 2...Bc5?
2...Nf6 (Berlin Defense) is most principled. It challenges e4 and prepares ...Nxe4 tactics. 2...Bc5 develops symmetrically and often transposes to Italian Game lines after 3.Nf3.
What happens after 2...Nf6 3.Nc3 Nxe4?
3...Nxe4?? loses to 4.Qh5! hitting the knight on e4 and threatening Qxf7#. A classic beginner trap — Black must first defend e4 with 3...d6 or trade with 3...Nxc3 (the Boden-Kieseritzky arises after 3.Nf3 Nxe4 4.Nc3).
Is the Bishop's Opening good for beginners?
Excellent, simple plans, natural development, and it teaches the importance of attacking f7 from move 2. A great stepping stone to the Italian Game or Vienna Game.
Related openings
For White
Italian Game
The fastest-developing 1.e4 opening. Aim the bishop at f7 and play for the attack.
For White
Vienna Game
A flexible, aggressive alternative to the Italian and Ruy Lopez with the Vienna Gambit attack.
For Black
Petrov Defense
The 'symmetric' defense. Rock-solid and endorsed at the World Championship level.
Ready to train the Bishop's Opening?
Every variation above is a drill on ChessAtlas. Spaced repetition schedules each move so you never forget a line again. Free to start — no credit card.