King's Pawn Game · C20
Philidor Gambit
1. e4 e5 2. d4 d6 3. dxe5 Bd7
An early pawn trade leaves the d-file as White's avenue and the e-file as Black's - both sides get real winning chances down their own file. 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. d4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e5, and frees the bishop and queen. Theory calls this the Center Game.
- 2... d6 Supports the centre, adding control of e5. Theory calls this the Maróczy Defense.
Sign in to read every move's note and train this line — 2 more moves in this line, 6 in all.
Where this fits
This line is one of 38 in the King's Pawn Game. If you want to know where your own games leave it, the guide on leaving theory explains how that is found.