Tactics in the Italian

The Italian Game is an opening for white.  Follow along as Mrs Jessica E Prescott (aka BoundingOwl) shows you some amazing tactics in this fun opening!  Another name for this opening is "Giuoco Piano" -- which means "slow game" -- even though it's definitely not slow at all.  Pronounce "giuoco" like "jee-oko".  

The idea for white is to develop quickly and towards the center, and to castle early.  Normal moves are 1. e4, 2. Nf3, and 3. Bc4.  White would like to conquer the square d4, which is especially nice if there is a black bishop on c5.

It's easy to play, and fun because there are so many tricks for white!  The black kingside is swiftly demolished by white's queen, knight, and bishops.  Notice the weak white squares around the king.  Sometimes you can even sac a piece to win the game!

Try this mate in one.  What tactic did you use?  Why is that tactic so powerful?

 

 

 

 

(It's a discovered double check!  That only gives one option to escape instead of three:  MOVE THE KING.)

 

Follow this game.  Notice the weak white squares...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mate in two!   What tactic did you use?

 

 

 

(You used the disco double check again!)

Time for tea!  Stay tuned for some Solitaire Chess in the Italian game.  Here's a final puzzle for today that arose from the Italian opening.  Use the battery to make a strong pin on f7, then a back rank mate!

 

 

 

 

Tip of the week:  Try this opening out for white and see what happens!  Remember:  1.  e4,  2.  Nf3,  3.  Bc4 and castle early!  Aim for d4 and f7 usually.