Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...e5/2. Bc4/2...d6

= Bishop's Opening - Sideline 2... d6!? = In the Bishop's Opening, after the moves '''1. e4 e5 2. Bc4, Black's move 2...d6''' leads usually to the Philidor Defence. This line is a solid choice for Black and has historical significance, as it was often preferred during the time of François-André Danican Philidor, a renowned 18th-century chess player.

Main Moves


 * For White: After 1. e4 e5 2. Bc4 d6, the traditional move 3. Nf3 leads to a game that can transpose into lines of the Philidor Defense. However, an aggressive approach is 3.f4, directly challenging Black's center and aiming for a spatial advantage. This move is in line with the spirit of the Bishop's Opening, which seeks to control the center and develop pieces rapidly. Philidor's insighted into the importance of the f-pawn break is quite relevant here. He claimed that the player who first advances the f-pawn (f4 for White or f5 for Black) would gain a spatial advantage. However, the move 3. f4 has been refuted by the current status of the chess opening theory.
 * For Black: In response to White's moves, Black should focus on solid development and maintaining a strong pawn structure. If White plays 3.Nf3, Black can continue with moves like Nf6, Be7, and O-O, aiming for a solid yet flexible position. If White opts for 3.f4, Black needs to be more cautious, possibly countering with exf4 and following up with Nf6 and Be7, preparing to castle and counterattack in the center.

Theory table
. '''1. e4 e5 2. Bc4 d6!?'''