Petrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Closed Variation (C42)

The Classical Attack, Closed Variation is a variation of the Petrov's Defense, catalogued as ECO C42. The line runs 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nf3 Nxe4 5. d4 Nf6, reaching the position shown below after 10 half-moves.

White holds the centre with pawns on d4. Development is level at one minor pieces each. It is White to move after five moves. The e-file file is fully open.

On the Petrov's Defense generally: A symmetrical defense known for its solidity. Black mirrors White's moves in the opening.

You can play through this variation move by move in your browser — Learn mode walks the line with an explanation at each step, and Drill mode replays it from memory so you find out whether you actually know it. No account is required.

Position characteristics

• Open file

Related Petrov's Defense lines

• Classical Attack, Berger Variation
• Classical Attack, Chigorin Variation
• Classical Attack, Chigorin Variation, Browne Attack
• Classical Attack, Chigorin Variation, Main Line
• Classical Attack, Jaenisch Variation
• Classical Attack, Krause Variation
• Classical Attack, Marshall Trap
• Classical Attack, Marshall Variation
• Classical Attack

See all 30 Petrov's Defense variations →

Frequently asked questions

What are the moves of the Classical Attack, Closed Variation?

The Classical Attack, Closed Variation goes 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nf3 Nxe4 5. d4 Nf6. It is a variation of the Petrov's Defense and is catalogued as ECO C42.

What is the ECO code for the Classical Attack, Closed Variation?

The Classical Attack, Closed Variation is ECO C42. ECO codes group openings by their move order, so nearby codes cover closely related lines of the Petrov's Defense.

Is the Classical Attack, Closed Variation good for Black?

Stockfish evaluates the position after 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nf3 Nxe4 5. d4 Nf6 at +0.59 at depth 18, which is a slight pull for White, within normal opening margins. Engine evaluation is only a starting point — at club level the practical value of a line is mostly about whether you know its plans better than your opponent does.

What kind of position does the Classical Attack, Closed Variation lead to?

White holds the centre with pawns on d4. Development is level at one minor pieces each. It is White to move. The e-file file is fully open.