The Opera Game
Paris Opera House, informal
Paul Morphy defeats two opponents during an opera intermission with textbook development and two devastating sacrifices — checkmate in 17 moves.
Morphy's Opera Game (1858) — two sacrifices, one back-rank checkmate in 17 moves. Click ▶ to play through.
📖 The Story
During a Paris Opera performance in 1858, the Duke of Brunswick and Count Isouard insisted Morphy play them both while watching the show. Playing with his hat in his lap, Morphy deployed his pieces with flawless speed. After two spectacular sacrifices — the exchange on d7, then the queen on b8 — he delivered a back-rank checkmate with his lone rook. The game remains the definitive beginner's lesson in why development and open files win games.
⚡ Key Moment — Move 13
13.Rxd7! sacrifices the exchange to destroy Black's coordination. Then 16.Qb8+! Nxb8 17.Rd8# delivers a back-rank checkmate — Black's own pieces have no room to escape.
🎯 Tactical Themes
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the Opera Game played?
At the Paris Opera House during a performance of Rossini's The Barber of Seville, in October 1858.
Why is the Opera Game famous?
It perfectly illustrates classical development principles — Morphy had all his pieces active while his opponents' were undeveloped, and he won in 17 moves with two sacrifices.
What did Morphy sacrifice in the Opera Game?
First the exchange (Rxd7, recouping only a knight), then his queen (Qb8+, answered by Nxb8), leaving just his rook to deliver Rd8#.
Do you make similar mistakes in your own games?
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