Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...d5/2. e5

Scandinavian defence B01 Scandinavian defence 2...c5 2...Bf5 2. e5 While advancing the e-pawn to gain space looks somewhat natural, it is rarely seen by masters and never by players above 2500. Black has a number of ways to equalize quickly but the most common plan is to develop the light-squared bishop to f5 or g4 and then play ...e6. This results in a position similar to the French defence, but with the improvement that they have already developed their bishop outside of the pawn chain. 2...c5, controlling d4, is most common and this move has scored very well for Black. White may play 3. d4 anyway or prepare it with 3. c3, or abandon d4 and play 3. f4. 2...Bf5 also equalizes. More exotic tries include 2...d4!? with a complicated position and unusual pawn structure, and 2...e6?! allowing a transposition to the French. Theory table 1. e4 d5 2. e5 2345‎ c5c3 Nc6d4 Bf5Nf3 e6=/+‎ ...f4 Nc6Nf3 Bg4Be2 e6=/+‎ ...Nf3 Nc6Bb5 Bg4h3 Bxf3=/+‎ Bf5d4 e6Nf3 c5c3 Nc6=/+ References See also