Chess Openings

Center Game: Paulsen Attack Variation

ECO C22 ยท Center Game

The Center Game: Paulsen Attack Variation (C22) is a chess opening in the Center Game family, played by White. It arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. d4 exd4 3. Qxd4 Nc6 4. Qe3.

Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. d4 exd4 3. Qxd4 Nc6 4. Qe3

About this opening

The Paulsen Attack (3.Qxd4 Nc6 4.Qe3) places the queen on e3, where it is safe while supporting long castling and development with Nc3, Bd2 and O-O-O. It is the main modern line of the Center Game: White aims for a kingside attack with opposite-side castling. The play is combative and strategic, the development lead offsetting the queen's initial exposure.

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