Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...e5/2. Nf3/2...Nc6/3. Nc3/3...Nf6/4. d4

Scotch variation C47 Four knights game 4. d4 · Scotch variation The Scotch variation of the four knights is a confrontational approach to remove the e5 pawn, opening the centre and preparing to develop White's remaining pieces. This resembles the Scotch game, 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4. After 4...exd4, White may retake the pawn with 5. Nxd4 and the game transposes to the "normal" Scotch game after 5...Bb4 6. Nxc6 bxc6 7. Bd3. Alternatively, White has the option of 5. Nd5, the sharp Belgrade gambit. Theory table References See also