Four Knights Game
C46–C49White1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Nc3 Nf6
C46–C49 · 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Nc3 Nf6
The idea
The most symmetrical of the open games: both sides simply bring out all four knights to their best squares before doing anything else. It is calm, principled, and very hard to go wrong with — a model lesson in classical development. White is not chasing a knockout, just a small, durable edge from sound piece play.
Your plan (White)
Complete healthy development, add the king's bishop (usually to b5 or via the centre with d4), castle, and convert a tiny lead in space and coordination into a lasting positional pull.
Heading into the middlegame
The Four Knights is about a one-tempo edge in a symmetrical position. Don't force matters — complete development (Bb5 or d4, O-O, d3), then break the symmetry in your favour: a well-timed Nd5 outpost, Bxc6 to inflict doubled pawns, or the central d4 break. Pressure e5, claim the half-open lines that open after trades, and convert the small initiative patiently rather than hunting a knockout.
Lines
0/2 masteredYou borrow the Ruy idea with Bb5 in a symmetrical setup, develop calmly, and use your extra tempo to break the symmetry first.
You strike with d4 instead of pinning, then trade on c6 to inflict doubled pawns and play around them for a small, durable pull.