Scotch GameC44

3...Nf6 Declined Line

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 Nf6

Every move explained, never a dead end.

Both sides plans

White's plan

3...Nf6 leaves e5 under-defended. dxe5 forces the knight to recapture, then Qd5 attacks that knight and f7 at the same time. Develop Bc4 and Nc3 with tempo. If Black plays ...d6, exchange on d6 and castle long only while the c-file stays closed.

Black's plan

...Nf6 develops but allows dxe5. After ...Nxe4 and Qd5, the knight needs c5 or e6 while Black plays ...d6 to free the c8-bishop. The priority is development, not holding the e5-pawn at all costs.

The line, move by move

1. e4e4 occupies the center.
... e5e5 occupies the center.
2. Nf3Nf3 develops the knight and controls d4 and e5.
... Nc6Nc6 develops the knight and controls d4 and e5.
3. d4d4 strikes at the center.
... Nf6Nf6 develops the knight and controls e4 and d5.

Open on the interactive board

Other major variations

The complete Scotch Game guide See all 53 variations in the branch map