Ruy Lopez: Vinogradov Variation

In the Ruy Lopez: Vinogradov Variation, when White plays e4, they are aiming to control the center of the board right from the start of the game. This move also opens up the diagonal for the White Bishop on c1, which can be developed later in the game. By pushing their e-pawn, White also frees up the knight on f3 which can then be moved to a better square on the board. The move e4 is a crucial one in this opening and sets the stage for a complex and dynamic game.

Black's move e5 is aimed at controlling the center of the board and challenging White's pawn on e4. By placing their pawn on e5, Black also opens up the diagonal for their bishop on c8, allowing it to potentially become a strong piece later in the game. This move also prepares for Black's knight on g8 to be developed to f6 or d6, allowing for more centralized control of the board. In sum, Black's move e5 is a fundamental response to White's opening move, and helps to establish the balance of power on the board.

White's move Nf3 is a commonly played opening move aimed at developing the knight towards the center of the board and preparing for potential future attacks. The knight on f3 guards the pawn on e5, which is now under threat from Black's pawn on d7, and also creates potential to control the central squares d4 and e5. By placing the knight on f3 instead of Ng1-f3, White also leaves the option open to play the move g2-g3 and fianchetto their king's bishop, which can be a useful strategy in many different opening variations. In sum, Nf3 is a flexible and important developing move in the game of chess.

In the Ruy Lopez: Vinogradov Variation, Black's move Nc6 is aimed at fighting for control of the center of the board and bringing another piece into the game. By placing the knight on c6, Black can potentially support the pawn on e5, and also prepares to castle their king to safety. The knight on c6 also puts pressure on White's pawn on e4, making it more difficult for White to develop their pieces without losing control of the center. In sum, Nc6 is a solid and fundamental move in this opening, helping Black to establish a strong presence on the board.

White's move Bb5 is known as the Ruy Lopez opening, and is aimed at putting pressure on Black's pawn on e5. By placing the bishop on b5, White attacks the knight on c6 which is defending the pawn. This creates a disruption in Black's development and puts pressure on their position early on in the game. Additionally, the bishop on b5 can pin the knight to the queen, potentially preventing Black from castling. In sum, Bb5 is a tactical and aggressive move that sets up a strong strategic position for White, and can be difficult for Black to counter if not responded to correctly.

Black's move Qe7 is a less commonly played alternative to the more standard a6 move in the Ruy Lopez opening. By placing the queen on e7, Black aims to support the pawn on e5, which is now no longer directly attacked by White's bishop on b5. This move also prepares for Black to castle their king, moving it to safety away from potential attacks. However, Qe7 does place the queen on an exposed square and can allow for White to potentially gain a tempo by attacking it further with moves such as Nd5 or Be3. In general, Qe7 is an interesting and less predictable move that can create unique and unconventional game positions.