ECO code: C45
Scotch Game: Steinitz Variation
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 exd4 4. Nxd4 Qh4 5. Nc3
The hallmark of this variation is Black's early queen sortie to h4 on move 4, aiming to put immediate pressure on White's kingside and target the e4 pawn. White's response with 5. Nc3 develops a piece while defending the center and preparing to challenge Black's queen.
From White's perspective, this line is primarily attacking and focused on rapid development and central control to exploit the premature queen move by Black. Black's queen move is somewhat provocative and aggressive but can become vulnerable if White responds accurately.
This opening definitely attacks the center, with White striving to maintain a strong pawn presence and piece activity in the central squares, while Black tries to disrupt this balance early on.
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 Scotch Game: Steinitz Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 7 - Move #8 black