Russian Game: Classical Attack, Closed Variation

The opening move for White is e4, which is considered to be a very strong move and is often played with the intention of controlling the center of the board. By doing so, White creates more opportunities for their pieces to move towards the center, creating more options and more possibilities to develop the game. e4 is also capable of blocking Black's d5 pawn, preventing them from trying to gain control of the center of the board themselves. In sum, e4 is a strong move that sets the tone for White's game and allows them to dictate the pace and flow of the game.

Black's response with e5 is also aimed at controlling the center of the board, much like White's opening move. By playing e5, Black tries to counteract White's control of the center and prevents them from having too much influence over the board. Additionally, e5 gives Black's pieces more room to maneuver, allowing for potential development of their knights and bishops. Moreover, this move also clears the way for Black's queen and bishop, making them stronger and more effective in controlling the board.

The move Nf3 is aimed at controlling the center of the board and developing the knight, which is one of the most valuable pieces on the board. This move allows White to put pressure on Black's e5 pawn, making it harder for Black to maintain control of the center. Additionally, Nf3 gives White the opportunity to castle, which is an important move for protecting the king and developing the rook. Furthermore, by developing one of their minor pieces, White sets the stage for more complex strategic moves later in the game.

In the Russian Game: Classical Attack, Closed Variation, Black's move Nf6 aims to protect their e5 pawn and challenge White's control of the center. This move also further develops Black's knight and puts pressure on White's knight on f3, which is now attacked twice and may need to move again. Moreover, Nf6 prepares Black for the potential opening of the g-file, which can be a valuable tactic for launching an attack against White's king. In addition, Nf6 sets the stage for a number of other strategic moves later in the game that may involve black's knight, particularly a potential pin on White's bishop with ...Bg4.

White's move with Nxe5 is aimed at putting pressure on Black's knight on f6 and winning a pawn. By capturing the f6 knight with their own knight, White gains more control over the center of the board and disrupts Black's development. Furthermore, Nxe5 opens up possibilities for future moves, including a potential attack on Black's queen or bishop. This move also contributes to White's overall goal of controlling the board and dictating the flow of the game. In sum, Nxe5 is a strong move that creates opportunities for White to strengthen their attacking position.

Black's move with d6 is aimed at protecting their pawn on e5 and preventing White from capturing it with their knight again. By playing d6, Black also prepares to develop their bishop and potentially castle, which are important defensive moves. Additionally, this move serves to restrict White's knight on e5, preventing it from occupying a more advanced position on the board. Moreover, d6 puts pressure on White's knight, which may need to be moved again, giving Black more opportunities to develop their pieces and control the board. In sum, d6 is a solid move that sets the stage for more complex strategic moves later in the game.

In the Russian Game: Classical Attack, Closed Variation, White's move with Nf3 is aimed at developing their knight and pressuring Black's pawn on d6. By occupying this position on the board, White protects their pawn on e4 and gains control over the center of the board. Additionally, Nf3 prepares for the castle move and puts pressure on Black's pawn structure, potentially weakening their defense in the center. Furthermore, Nf3 sets the stage for more complex strategic moves later in the game, particularly in terms of shaping the board to suit White's play style. In sum, Nf3 is a strong move that contributes to White's overall tactical and strategic goals.

Black's move with Nxe4 is aimed at taking advantage of the exposed position of White's knight on f3. By capturing this knight with their own knight, Black forces White's queen to move and disrupts their development. Additionally, Nxe4 puts pressure on White's pawn structure, specifically the e4 pawn, which is now unprotected. Furthermore, this move sets the stage for a potential attack using Black's knight and queen, which can be quite powerful when coordinated effectively. Moreover, Nxe4 has the potential to create additional weaknesses in White's position, giving Black more opportunities to gain control of the board. In sum, Nxe4 is a strong move that creates opportunities for Black to seize the initiative and make strategic advances towards victory.

White's move with d4 is aimed at disrupting Black's control of the center of the board and gaining back the pawn lost earlier. By pushing the d-pawn, White attacks Black's knight and forces it to move, potentially weakening Black's pawn structure. Additionally, d4 opens up possibilities for future moves with White's bishop and queen. Furthermore, this move puts pressure on Black to make strategic decisions about how to respond, potentially causing them to waste valuable time in the opening. Moreover, d4 sets the stage for a more complex strategic game later on, as both sides must navigate the new shape of the board that is created. In sum, d4 is a strong move that puts White back in control and creates opportunities for future tactical and strategic moves.

In the Russian Game: Classical Attack, Closed Variation, Black's move with Nf6 is aimed at challenging White's control of the center of the board and potentially developing the knight to f5. Additionally, Nf6 prepares for the castle move, which is an important defensive move for protecting the king. Furthermore, this move sets a trap where Black can threaten White's pawn on e4 with ...Nd5. With this move, Black can potentially gain a pawn and put more pressure on White's position. Moreover, Nf6 also attacks White's pawn on d4, potentially forcing White to make a move with this pawn that weakens their position. In sum, Nf6 is a strong move that creates opportunities for Black to seize the initiative and make tactical gains on the board.