ECO code: B02
Alekhine: Scandinavian, Exchange, 4.Nxd5
This variation arises after the moves 1. e4 Nf6 2. Nc3 d5 3. exd5 Nxd5 4. Nxd5. Here, White immediately challenges Black's knight on d5, exchanging pieces early in the center.
Characteristic: The move 4.Nxd5 is a straightforward exchange that simplifies the position by removing Black's active knight from the center. It reflects White's intention to neutralize Black's early central pressure quickly.
Playing Style: For White, this line can be considered more positional and slightly defensive, as it reduces tension and avoids complex central battles. Black, on the other hand, aims to regain equal footing and can seek active piece play after recapturing on d5.
Center Control: The exchange on d5 means neither side maintains a strong pawn presence in the center immediately. However, both sides will contest central squares in the subsequent moves, so while direct central tension is reduced temporarily, control of the center remains a key objective for both.
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 Alekhine: Scandinavian, Exchange, 4.Nxd5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 53 - Move #6 white