ECO code: B01
Opening Name: Scandinavian Defense: 2...Qxd5 3.d4
Moves: 1. e4 d5 2. exd5 Qxd5 3. d4
Description: In this variation of the Scandinavian Defense, Black recaptures the pawn early with 2...Qxd5, immediately challenging White's control of the center. White responds with 3.d4, aiming to establish a strong pawn presence in the center. This move supports White's central dominance and prepares for rapid development of the kingside pieces.
Characteristic: The early queen recapture by Black is somewhat risky because the queen can become a target for White's developing pieces, allowing White to gain time by attacking the queen. White's 3.d4 is characteristic of a classical approach, seizing space and control in the center.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this line is attacking in the sense that White aggressively claims the center and seeks to develop pieces with tempo by attacking Black's queen. For Black, this is a more defensive setup, as Black tries to hold onto the pawn and avoid falling behind in development.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests and aims to control the center. White's 3.d4 reinforces central pawns and challenges Black's presence in the center, making central control a key theme of this variation.
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 3.d4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 38 - Move #5 black