Petrov Defense:

The Petrov Defense is a chess opening played by black in response to 1. e4 e5 and 2. Nf3. Black responds with Nf6 instead of Nc3. Black counter-attacks the pawn in the center and poses threats of his own. This opening is a little dangerous for black, especially if correct play doesn't follow. Though this symmetrical response has a long history, it was first popularised by Alexander Petrov, a Russian chess player of the mid-19th century. In recognition of the early investigations by the Russian masters Petrov and Carl Jaenisch, this opening is called the Russian Game in some countries.

     

Here is a list of the 4 most popular continuations in the Petrov Defense:

a) Classical Variation
b) Steinitz Attack
c) Urusov Gambit
d) Damiano Variation
 

Classical Variation

Exchange.jpg

Steinitz Attack

Berlin.jpg

Urusov Gambit

Spanish.jpg

 Damiano Variation

Famous Games with the Petrov Defense:

1) Classical Variation - Carlsen, M. vs Hou Yifan
2) Steinitz Attack - Aravindh, Chithambaram vs Mosadeghpour
3) Urusov Gambit - Cejas, J. vs Saralegui, Adolfo
4) Damiano Variation - Majdan, J. vs Harazinska, Ewa