The Trompowsky Attack arises after 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5 and falls under ECO code A45. This relatively modern system carries less theoretical baggage than many mainline 1. d4 openings, with White immediately developing the bishop to g5 to put pressure on the f6 knight. In most variations, Black sidesteps doubled pawns (as in 2...Ne4 or 2...e6), though some lines (2...c5 or 2...d5) involve accepting them. Certain responses, specifically 2...e6 and 2...d5, can transpose into the Torre Attack after 3. Nf3, but the main line 2...Ne4 generally keeps the game in independent Trompowsky territory. In that main line, both sides move a developed minor piece twice — the knight travels from g8 to f6 to e4, and the bishop from c1 to g5 to f4 — after which Black enjoys unusual flexibility in development, with options like ...c5, ...d5, ...d6, or ...e6. The less common 2...e6, the Classical Defense, favors natural development over piece exchanges and can lead to the Torre Attack with 3. Nf3 or the Big Center Variation with 3. e4, where Black typically avoids trading minor pieces due to the pin and White often resolves the tension with 4. Bxf6. The rare 2...d5 invites transposition into the Torre Attack (3. Nf3) or Richter-Veresov (3. Nc3), but White can remain in the Trompowsky with 3. Bxf6, doubling Black's pawns. With 9.7 million Lichess games across all rating levels, it is one of the most popular openings.
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 9.7 million Lichess games across all rating levels:
- White wins: 48.9%
- Black wins: 45.9%
- Draws: 5.1%
The statistics show a roughly balanced opening where both sides have equal chances.
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.
