French Defense · C00
Banzai-Leong Gambit, Pinova Gambit
1. e4 e6 2. b4 Bxb4 3. e5
The structure hands White the half-open b-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... e6 Supports the centre, adding control of d5. Theory calls this the French Defense.
- 2. b4 Opens the c1-a3 diagonal for the bishop. The pawn is genuinely on offer - this is the Banzai-Leong Gambit: development and initiative over material.
- 2... Bxb4 Takes the pawn on b4.
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Where this fits
This line is one of 212 in the French Defense. If you want to know where your own games leave it, the guide on leaving theory explains how that is found.