1.e4 — the open games
Ruy López (Spanish)
1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5ECO C60–C99
The most respected way to meet 1…e5. White develops with tempo and pressures the knight defending e5, aiming for a long, strategic squeeze. Rich in ideas at every level and a favourite of world champions.
Key ideas
- The bishop on b5 pressures the c6-knight, the natural defender of e5.
- White usually castles, plays c3 and d4, and builds a broad pawn centre.
- Black equalises with either the solid Closed lines (…Be7, …O-O, …Re8) or the sharp Berlin and Marshall.
Who it suits
Players who enjoy slow-building pressure and deep strategic play rather than an early brawl.
Add it to your repertoire.
Drill the Ruy López (Spanish) move by move against the board until it's second nature.
Open the trainer