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.
Opening Name: Four Knights: Scotch, 4...exd4 5.Nxd4 Bb4 6.Nxc6 bxc6
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. d4 exd4 5. Nxd4 Bb4 6. Nxc6 bxc6
Description: This variation arises from the Four Knights Game combined with the Scotch Opening idea. After 4.d4, White challenges Black’s central pawn, and Black responds actively by capturing on d4. The sequence 5...Bb4 pins White’s knight on c3, increasing pressure and provoking structural changes after 6.Nxc6 bxc6.
Characteristic: The move 6...bxc6 is characteristic for accepting a slightly compromised pawn structure (doubled c-pawns) in exchange for dynamic piece play and control over the center. Black aims to use the open b-file and flexible pawn center for counterplay.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this line is somewhat attacking because White has taken the initiative in the center with an early d4 and tries to exploit Black’s pawn structure weaknesses. Black’s approach is dynamic and can be both defensive and counterattacking, seeking activity rather than purely passive defense.
Center Control: Yes, this opening strongly involves fighting for the center. Both sides contest the central squares early, with White’s 4.d4 pushing for central dominance and Black responding actively to challenge that control.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Four Knights: Scotch, 4...exd4 5.Nxd4 Bb4 6.Nxc6 bxc6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 11 - Move #7 black
You can also discover how top players used Four Knights: Scotch, 4...exd4 5.Nxd4 Bb4 6.Nxc6 bxc6 to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.