ECO code: D00
Opening Name: Queen's Pawn Game: Accelerated London System, Steinitz Countergambit, Morris Countergambit
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. Bf4 c5 3. e4
Description: This variation arises when Black challenges White's center early with ...c5, and White responds aggressively by pushing e4 on move 3. The move 3.e4 is characteristic of the Morris Countergambit, an attempt by White to seize the initiative by immediately contesting the center and opening lines for rapid development. It is an attacking move from White’s side, aiming to undermine Black’s pawn structure and gain space in the center.
Characteristic: The defining trait of this line is White’s early central thrust with e4 in response to Black’s ...c5, accelerating central tension and offering a gambit-like pawn structure to challenge Black’s setup.
Strategic Nature: For White, this is an attacking approach, seeking active play and central control. Black’s ...c5 is also somewhat aggressive, counterattacking the center, so the position becomes dynamically balanced with both sides contesting the center.
Center Control: Yes, this opening specifically targets the center. White’s 3.e4 move directly challenges Black’s pawn on d5 and fights for central dominance early in the game.
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 Queen's Pawn Game: Accelerated London System, Steinitz Countergambit, Morris Countergambit, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #5 black