The Ruy Lopez: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3... 4.Ba4 arises after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 and falls under ECO code C70. Rather than exchanging on c6, White retreats the bishop to maintain pressure on Black's knight and, by extension, the e5-pawn it protects. The critical distinction from the position after 3. Bb5 is that Black now has ...b5 available at any moment, permanently eliminating the Bxc6/Nxe5 threat. Since there is no urgency to play ...b5 until White secures the e4-pawn, Black typically focuses on kingside development and castling first. The overwhelming choice is 4...Nf6, the most principled continuation, which begins kingside development while simultaneously attacking e4. This is simply referred to as the main line. With 18.3 million Lichess games across all rating levels, it is one of the most popular openings.
History and Notable Players
It arises from the Ruy Lopez: Morphy Defense. Among the most prolific practitioners on the White side are Viswanathan Anand (269 games), Vlastimil Jansa (238 games), Michael Adams (207 games). On the Black side, notable exponents include Svetozar Gligoric (295 games), Alexander G Beliavsky (269 games), Oleg M Romanishin (266 games).
Statistics
Based on 18.3 million Lichess games across all rating levels:
- White wins: 51.7%
- Black wins: 43.6%
- Draws: 4.7%
White holds a moderate edge statistically, though Black has good practical chances.
Main Lines and Variations
After 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4, the main continuations include:
Each of these lines leads to distinct types of positions and requires its own understanding of the resulting pawn structures and piece placements.
Practice on Chessiverse
The best way to learn the Ruy Lopez: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3... 4.Ba4 is through practice. On Chessiverse, you can play chess against computer opponents from any opening or custom position. Our AI bots range from beginner to grandmaster level, each with unique playing styles — from aggressive attackers to solid defenders. Choose a bot that matches your rating and work your way up as you master the opening's key ideas.
