Ruy Lopez
ECO C60 · Ruy Lopez · positional · intermediate
The Ruy Lopez (C60) is a positional chess opening in the Ruy Lopez family, played by White. It arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5. The richest opening in chess. Long-term pressure on Black's center. Recommended for intermediate players.
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5
About this opening
By pinning the c6 knight with 3.Bb5, White creates long-term pressure against the e5 pawn and the center. Black must constantly choose between solid setups like the Berlin Defense and counter-attacking ones like the Marshall Attack or the Open Variation. The main line, the Closed Ruy Lopez, leads to deep strategic battles where White slowly builds a kingside attack while Black seeks counterplay on the queenside. From Capablanca to Kasparov and Carlsen, every world champion has relied on the Ruy Lopez, making it the most deeply studied opening in chess history.