Ruy Lopez Opening (Spanish Opening Chess): Variations, Strategies & Best Defenses

FAQs

• Is the Ruy Lopez a good opening for beginners?

  

  Yes, the Ruy Lopez is great for beginners. It teaches you the basics of chess openings—controlling the center, developing pieces quickly, and keeping your king safe. If you’re just starting out, it’s one of the best chess openings for White to learn.

• What is the main idea behind the Ruy Lopez?

  

  The idea is simple: White’s bishop attacks the knight on c6, which is defending the e5 pawn. By putting pressure there, White slowly builds control of the center. It’s not about quick tricks but about setting up a strong position for the middle game.

• What are the best defenses against the Ruy Lopez?

  

  Black has several solid choices. The Berlin Defense is known for being super solid and is played a lot at top levels. The Morphy Defense with 3…a6 is the most common response, and the Open Ruy Lopez gives Black sharp counterplay. If you want to explore Black’s best setups, check out our guide on the best chess openings for Black against e4.

• Why is it called the Spanish Opening?

  

  It’s called the Spanish Opening because it was first written about by a Spanish priest, Ruy López de Segura, way back in the 1500s. Over time, people simply started calling it the “Ruy Lopez” after him.

• Can Black actually beat the Ruy Lopez?

  

  Absolutely. While White gets a nice setup, Black isn’t worse if they know their stuff. Sharp lines like the Marshall Attack or active play in the Open Variation can give Black great chances. For players who want to avoid getting cramped, these counterattacks are very effective.

• Do grandmasters still play the Ruy Lopez today?

  

  Yes, almost every world champion has used it. Magnus Carlsen, Viswanathan Anand, and Garry Kasparov have all relied on it in big matches. That’s why it’s often called one of the most “evergreen” chess openings.