Queen's Pawn Game · D02
Chandler Gambit
1. d4 d5 2. Nf3 c5 3. g3 cxd4 4. Bg2
An early pawn trade leaves the c-file as Black's avenue and the d-file as White's - both sides get real winning chances down their own file. Black keeps the extra pawn; White plays for time, open lines, and initiative - the classic gambit trade. White's kingside bishop takes the long diagonal.
The first 4 moves, explained
- 1. d4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e5, and frees the bishop and queen.
- 1... d5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e4, and frees the bishop and queen.
- 2. Nf3 Develops the knight to f3, eyeing d4 and e5. It also props up the d4 pawn. Theory calls this the Zukertort Variation.
- 2... c5 Challenges the pawn on d4 - the central tension has to resolve. Theory calls this the Krause Variation.
Sign in to read every move's note and train this line — 3 more moves in this line, 7 in all.
Where this fits
This line is one of 82 in the Queen's Pawn Game. If you want to know where your own games leave it, the guide on leaving theory explains how that is found.