Ruy Lopez Black Move 3

The vast majority of master games have black moving 3...a6 or 3...Nf6 against the Ruy Lopez, but my opponents play Nge7, Bc5, and d6 so much more often.

Are these inferior moves I should be able to punish early to gain a slight edge out of the opening or is it just current fashion that has high rated players not playing these moves?

I feel adequately prepared to play the Spanish Exchange (vs. 3...a6) or a Berlin (end)game (vs. Nf6) but have been surprised by the frequency of these other moves and don't necessarily have great knowledge on how to attack.

Hi,

The opening explorer is definitely going to be your best friend in this case. Spend a few minutes on each line and you'll see why they are indeed less optimal than the more popular lines. Conceptually:

1. Nge7 is solid but slightly passive. You can get castled 0-0, then follow right up with c3 and d4 to take control of the centre
2. Bc5 should allow you to respond in a similar way. The bishop is vulnerable to attack from a timely c3 and d4 push. For example, Bc5 0-0 Nf6 c3, with d4 coming just as black gets castled, and the bishop will be kicked around.
3. d6 is very passive, and you're actually going to be transposing to some Alekhine defense type positions (e4 e5 Nf3 d6). Hit the center with d4 and take the initiative right out of the opening.

Hope this helps  

@Ellipsoul - after Bc5, 0-0, allows Nd4 which is supposed to be fine for black. Therefore c3 instead of 0-0 is considere to be slightly more precise.

This is very helpful! Do you mean Philidor vs. Alekhine? If so makes complete sense.