Vienna Game · C29

Vienna Gambit, Paulsen Attack

1. e4 e5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. f4 d5 4. fxe5 Nxe4 5. Qf3

An early pawn trade leaves the e-file as Black's avenue and the f-file as White's - both sides get real winning chances down their own file. Nc3 first keeps f4 available: White chooses between a kingside pawn storm and quiet Italian-style play, and Black must be ready for both.

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. Nc3 Develops the knight to c3, eyeing d5 and e4. It also props up the e4 pawn. Theory calls this the Vienna Game.
• 2... Nf6 Develops the knight to f6, eyeing d5 and e4. Theory calls this the Falkbeer Variation.

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