Opening course · C25 to C29
Learn the Vienna Game
The Vienna Game starts with 1.e4 e5 2.Nc3 Nf6 3.Bc4 Bc5 4.d3 d6 5.f4. Knight to c3, bishop to c4, and the f-pawn joins the attack.
- You play White
- For beginners
- Rated about 800 to 2200
What you will learn
- 1 The idea 3 steps
- 2 Main line 14 steps
- 3 Key variations 4 steps
- 4 Traps 2 steps
- 5 Plans and middlegames 5 steps
- 6 Test yourself 10 steps
Key ideas
- 2.Nc3 keeps the f-pawn free. Bc4, d3, then f4.
- Never leave g4 uncovered while the c5 bishop eyes f2.
- Na4 trades off the c5 bishop so you can castle.
- Against …Bg4, don’t rush h3: …Nd4 is the answer.
Traps you will see
- The queen on g4 Set by White
- The fork on f2 Set by Black
Model games
- Garry Kasparov Fabiano Caruana Ultimate Blitz Challenge · 2016
- Alireza Firouzja Magnus Carlsen Goldmoney Asian Rapid, online · 2021
- Robert James Fischer M. McDermott New York simul · 1964
Questions
Is the Vienna Game good for beginners?
Yes. It suits players from about 800 to 2200, and the course starts from the first move.
What are the first moves of the Vienna Game?
1.e4 e5 2.Nc3 Nf6 3.Bc4 Bc5 4.d3 d6 5.f4.
How long is the course?
6 chapters with 38 steps, each played out on the board with your coach.
Which traps does the course cover?
- The queen on g4
- The fork on f2