ECO code: B01
Scandinavian Defense: 2...Qxd5, Main Line, 6.Bc4 Bf5
The Scandinavian Defense arises after 1.e4 d5 2.exd5 Qxd5, with Black immediately challenging White's central control by recapturing the pawn with the queen. In the main line, moves continue with 3.Nc3 Qa5 4.d4 Nf6 5.Nf3 c6 6.Bc4 Bf5.
Characteristic of 6...Bf5: This move develops Black’s dark-squared bishop actively outside the pawn chain before playing ...e6. It aims to support control over the central squares and prepare for harmonious piece development, while avoiding passive setups.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, the setup with Bc4 is naturally aggressive, targeting the vulnerable f7 square and exerting pressure on Black’s center and kingside. Black’s ...Bf5 is a mix of defensive solidity and active piece placement, supporting central control without immediately launching an attack. Overall, White is slightly more aggressive here, while Black focuses on solid development and counterplay.
Control of the Center: This opening definitely involves contesting the center. White establishes a strong pawn presence with d4 and active piece placement, while Black counters by challenging the center with ...c6 and piece pressure. The struggle for central control is a key theme in this line.
This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Scandinavian: 2...Qxd5, Main Line, 6.Bc4 Bf5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #15 black