Chess Opening Traps

More Traps: https://lichess.org/study/TbYVXldE/mJ3kbhXM and https://www.chess.com/blog/ChessLord_I/25-best-opening-chess-traps-and-tricks

Ruy Lopez Traps

The Ruy Lopez, also known as the Spanish Opening, is one of the oldest and most popular openings in chess. Named after the Spanish priest Ruy López de Segura, it begins with the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5.

Noah’s Ark Trap

The Noah’s Ark trap focuses on trapping White’s light-squared bishop through a sequence of forcing moves.

Fishing Pole Trap

The knight on g4 serves as bait, while the pawn on h5 acts as the fishing pole, ready to catch an unsuspecting opponent. This trap is perfect for online or in-person blitz games!

Italian/Giuoco Piano Traps

The Giuoco Piano, meaning “Quiet Game” in Italian, is one of the oldest recorded chess openings. It begins with the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4 Bc5 and focuses on harmonious piece development and early control of the center.

Blackburne Shilling Trap

In this trap, Black ignores all basic opening principles to catch White off guard. At first, Black’s moves may seem careless, but after 5…Qxg2, it becomes clear who’s really in trouble!

Legal Trap

This trap, dating back to the 18th century, is named after Sire de Legal. A favorite among chess players, it features a stunning queen sacrifice.

Queen’s Gambit Declind Traps

The Queen’s Gambit Declined is a solid and time-tested response to the Queen’s Gambit, beginning with 1.d4 d5 2.c4 e6. By declining the gambit pawn, Black aims to maintain a strong pawn structure and prepare for harmonious piece development.

Cambridge Springs Trap

The Cambridge Springs trap arises from a well-known sequence of moves in the Queen’s Gambit Declined.

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