This defense makes the four knights defense viable for black!
- e4 e5
- Nf3 Nc6
- Nc3 Nf6
- Bb5 Nd4
This move by black seemingly sacrifices a pawn, but it allows black to develop and to attack the center. If white takes the pawn, it can result in a devastating attack by black:
5. Nxe5 Qe7
6. f4 NxBb5
7. NxN d6
8. Nf3 Qxe4+
9. Kf2 Ng4+
10. Kg3 Qg6
By move 8, black has recovered the sacrificed pawn. By taking the sacrifice, white has set itself up to lose the game as can be seen below.
The safer move for white is:
5. Bc4 Bc5 (Black develops the king bishop, allowing for black to castle)
6. Nxe5 Qe7
7. 0-0 d6
8. Nf3 Bg4
With this approach, white is able to maintain a strong presence in the center and castle. Black on the other hand has developed its pieces, is attacking the center, and can castle to either side.
