Bishop's Opening · C23

Anderssen Gambit

1. e4 e5 2. Bc4 b5 3. Bxb5 c6

The structure hands Black the half-open b-file - rook pressure down it is a standing plan. White is up material out of the opening - Black is banking on activity to show for it.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. e4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 1... e5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d4, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 2. Bc4 Develops the bishop to c4, eyeing d5. It eyes f7, the one square only the king defends. Theory calls this the Bishop's Opening.
• 2... b5 Puts the question to the bishop on c4 - retreat, trade, or be taken.

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