Details

The main line of the Scotch Gambit is often referred to as Modern Attack which actually transposes to the Modern Variation of the Two Knights Defense (aka Dubois-Reti Defense). It seems like a rough fight for both players until one of the sides usually makes a mistake and goes down in flames.

Modern Attack

4. ...      Nf6!

5. e5!    d5

6. Bb5   Ne4

7. Nxd4 Bd7

8. Bxc6  bxc6 (8... Bxc6?)

9. 0-0    Bc5

10. f3    Ng5

11. f4    Ne4

12. Be3

This is arguably the best choice for Black to slow down White's development and get some counterplay. However, if Black doesn't play accurately enough their mistake may even lead to quick mate. That is why, I personally prefer to play the Scotch Gambit as White.

Details

The Scotch Gambit has a lot of different variations. In this article you will learn about the most popular ones.

I. Variation with 4. ... Bc5 often transposing to the Max Lange Attack. The opening is named for the German chess master Max Lange, who suggested it in 1854.Max Lange Attack

4. ...      Bc5

5. 0-0    Nf6

6. e5     d5! (a typical counter)

7. exf6  dxc4

8. Re1+ Be6

9. Ng5   Qd5

(9...Qxf6?? 10.Nxe6 fxe6 11.Qh5+!

followed by 12.Qxc5 is a notorious trap)

10. Nc3! Qf5

(obviously, 10...dxc3?? loses on the spot because of 11.Qxd5 as 11...Bxd5 is illegal)

11. Nce4  0-0-0 with complex play.

 

II. Variation with 4. ... Bb4+ referred to as the London DefenseLondon Defense

4. ...      Bb4+

5. c3     dxc3

6. bxc3  Bc5   or   6. ... Ba5 

with sharp tactical play

and equal chances for both sides.

  

It is worth mentioning that there is a subvariation of the above where White sacrifices yet another pawn (6.0-0) for quick development and a powerful attack (see diagram below).

London Defense v.2