The Trompowsky Attack arises after 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5 and falls under ECO code A45. The Trompowsky Attack is a new offbeat opening with less theory which involves White immediately putting the bishop on g5 attacking the knight. Usually in most variations (2...Ne4 or 2...e6) Black avoids doubled pawns, but sometimes accepts them (2...c5 or 2...d5). The latter of each pair (2...e6 or 2...d5) just mentioned can transpose into the Torre Attack after 3. Nf3; however the Trompowsky Main Line (2...Ne4) typically doesn't transpose after it's played. In the Trompowsky Main Line, both sides move their developed minor piece twice: Black's knight from g8 to f6 to e4 and White's Bishop from c1 to g5 to f4. Afterward Black has many options to develop unlike many other openings. Some possible developing moves include c5, d5, d6, or e6. A less common but also popular line involves 2...e6 (Classical Defense) when it is best not to trade pieces and instead develop naturally. This line can transpose into the Torre Attack with 3. Nf3 or continue with 3. e4 in the Trompowsky (Big Center Variation, which fits the position perfectly) and Black usually avoids the trade of minor pieces because of the pin (h6 and e5) and instead trades pieces directly with 4. Bxf6. Even less common but transposable is the move 2...d5 which asks for a transposition into the Torre Attack (3. Nf3) or the Richter-Veresov (3. Nc3) but White can take advantage of the move and stay in the Trompowsky with 3. Bxf6, doubling Black's pawns. With 716,294 games in the master database, it is one of the most popular opening choice.
History and Notable Players
It arises from the Indian Defense Systems. Among the most prolific practitioners on the White side are Ivan Farago (1129 games), Aleksey Dreev (995 games), Svetozar Gligoric (884 games). On the Black side, notable exponents include Viktor Korchnoi (704 games), Wolfgang Uhlmann (569 games), Jan H Timman (559 games).
Statistics
Based on 716,294 master-level games:
- White wins: 36.1%
- Black wins: 29.1%
- Draws: 34.8%
White holds a moderate edge statistically, though Black has good practical chances.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Neglecting development: In the Trompowsky Attack, it can be tempting to make extra pawn moves early on. However, falling behind in development can be punished quickly, especially in open positions where opponent pieces can find active squares.
- Playing without a plan: Each position in the Trompowsky Attack demands a specific approach. Understand whether you should be attacking, defending, or maneuvering before making your move. Random moves lead to random results.
- Forgetting about piece coordination: Chess pieces are strongest when they work together. A single piece attacking alone is easy to defend against, but coordinated pieces can create unstoppable threats.
Practice on Chessiverse
The best way to learn the Trompowsky Attack is through practice. On Chessiverse, you can play chess against computer opponents that specialize in this opening. 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.
