ChessDrill

The Scandinavian Defense

Mainline

Move 1 of 4 ยท Your move

8
7
6
5
4
3
2
a1
b
c
d
e
f
g
h

Description

The Scandinavian defense (1. e4 d5) is an uncommon opening where Black challenges White's pawn center right away. Black's d-pawn move is somewhat unconventional and can surprise White. White has several options in response, including 2. exd5, 2. d4, and 2. Nf3. The Scandinavian leads to complex positions with chances for both sides to attack the enemy king. While not as popular as other openings, the Scandinavian defense is a cunning choice for Black.