Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...d5/2. e5

= 2. e5 =

While advancing the e-pawn to gain space looks somewhat natural, it is rarely seen by masters and never by players above 2500. Black has a number of ways to equalize quickly but the most common plan is to develop the light-squared bishop to f5 or g4 and then play e6. This results in a position similar to the French Defense, but where black's bishop is developed outside the pawn chain; therefore black is usually left with an improved French Defense. Black's most common move is to play 2...c5 making it awkward for white to continue 3. d4, and this move has scored very well for black. White may play d4 anyway and allow the trading of a center pawn for a wing pawn, or may prepare it with 3. c3, or may abandon d4 and play 3. f4. Less commonly black has played 2...Bf5 which also equalizes. More exotic tries include 2...d4!? with a complicated position and often an unusual pawn structure, and 2...e6?! allowing a transposition to the French Defense.

Theory table

 * 1. e4 d5 2. e5

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