Four Knights Game · C47
Halloween Gambit, Oldtimer Variation
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Nxe5 Nxe5 5. d4 Ng6 6. e5 Ng8 7. Bc4 Bb4 8. Qf3 f5
The structure hands Black the half-open e-file - rook pressure down it is a standing plan. Black keeps the extra pawn; White plays for time, open lines, and initiative - the classic gambit trade.
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. Nf3 Develops the knight to f3, eyeing d4 and e5.
- 2... Nc6 Develops the knight to c6, eyeing d4 and e5. It also props up the e5 pawn.
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Where this fits
This line is one of 49 in the Four Knights Game. If you want to know where your own games leave it, the guide on leaving theory explains how that is found.