Scotch - Chess Opening Strategy

The Scotch - Chess Opening Strategy

The Scotch chess opening strategy begins with the moves:
1. e4 e5
2. Nf3 Nc6
3. d4

In 1824 there was a match between Edinburgh and London where this opening received its name. The Scotch is not often played by top players because it releases the central tension too early and Black can equalize without problems. But recently the Scotch has been revived by players like Kasparov who has used it as a surprise weapon.

When you have Black then I recommend the following line.1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.d4 exd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nxc6 bxc6 6.e5 Qe7 7.Qe2 Nd5 8. c4 Ba6 9.b3 g6 10.f4 Bg7 11.Qf2 Nb6 which is very unpleasant to play for white as he has psychological difficulties finding the best moves.

If White plays 4.Bc4 and not 4.Nxd4 the game can enter the Max-Lange-Attack which you should study.

Please memorize Game 1 below for playing it with the black pieces. This will give you guidance in a real game when you have to play the Scotch as Black.