Anderssen Defense

1.e4 e5 2.Nc3 Bc5 3.f4 d6

Named after German master Adolf Anderssen, this solid defense features Black's early bishop development to c5 followed by the central support move d6. Black builds a solid position while maintaining flexibility and preparing for various strategic plans.

ECO Code

C25

Difficulty

Intermediate

Style

Solid/Positional

Key Players

Anderssen, Steinitz, Tarrasch

Strategic Ideas for Black

Solid development: Build a sound positional foundation
Central support: The d6 pawn supports the e5 center
Bishop activity: The Bc5 controls important central squares
Flexible structure: Maintain options for various plans
Defensive solidity: Create a position that's hard to attack

White's Main Approaches

Central Advance

4.fxe5 dxe5 5.Nf3

White opens the center and seeks to exploit Black's slightly loose position.

Piece Development

4.Nf3 Nd7 5.Bb5

White develops naturally and pins the knight, creating positional pressure.

Bishop Challenge

4.Na4 Bb6 5.Nxb6

White challenges Black's bishop immediately and simplifies the position.

Anderssen's Philosophy

The Anderssen Defense represents classical defensive principles: solid development, central support, and positional flexibility. Black avoids immediate tactical complications while building a sound position that can withstand White's aggressive intentions. This approach is particularly effective against players who prefer sharp tactical play.

Key Strategic Themes

For Black

Central stability: Maintain the e5 pawn with proper support
Piece coordination: Develop pieces harmoniously
Defensive solidity: Build a position that's difficult to attack
Counterplay preparation: Look for opportunities to create activity

For White

Central pressure: Challenge Black's central pawn structure
Development advantage: Use superior piece development
Initiative maintenance: Keep constant pressure on Black's position
Structural weaknesses: Exploit any looseness in Black's position

Typical Continuations

Central Exchange

4.fxe5 dxe5 5.Nf3 Nc6

Balanced central play where both sides have equal chances for active piece development.

Positional Play

4.Nf3 Nd7 5.Bb5 a6

Complex positional maneuvering where understanding of typical structures becomes important.

Positional Guidelines

For Black: Don't be too passive. Look for active piece development while maintaining solidity.

For White: Don't overextend in the attack. Black's solid position requires patient play.

Modern Understanding

The Anderssen Defense offers Black a solid and reliable approach to the Vienna Game. While it may not promise immediate counterplay, it provides excellent defensive resources and good chances for equality. The defense is particularly effective for players who prefer positional maneuvering over sharp tactical complications.

Master the Anderssen Defense

Learn this solid defensive system that offers excellent positional resources and reliable equality against White's aggressive intentions.

Back to Vienna Game Explore Main Line