Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...e5/2. Nf3/2...d6/3. d4/3...Nd7/4. Bc4/4...exd4

4...exd4
This is the only safe step in the minefield of traps. However, it looks strange, giving up the central strongpoint on e5, but Black remains solid. White usually plays Nxd4 and sets up one more trap. While White has a slight advantage, careful play is required to maintain the initiative and prevent Black from gaining counterplay. The position remains complex, with both sides considering various strategic options

White moves

 * Qxd4: This move is beneficial for White as it threatens to play Nc3, supports the development of the knight to c3 by removing the pawn on d4, and threatens the black pawn on g7. The sequence 5. Qxd4 c6 6. Nc3 Qb6 7. Bf4 demonstrates how White can maintain the initiative, with the possibility of castling queenside on the next move (8. O-O-O).
 * Nxd4: This move is also a viable option for White, as it wins material. However, White may lose some of the advantage gained earlier in the game. The move intends to follow up with either O-O or Nc3.

Black's main defensive ideas

 * Playing ...Qb6 to support the pawn on d4
 * Developing the knight to f6, threatening d5 or Ne5
 * Moving the bishop to e7 to guard the key square g5 and protect the king.

Theory table
Bibliography


 * Kaufman, Larry (2004). The Chess Advantage in Black and White. ISBN 0-8129-3571-3.
 * Panov, Vasily (1973). Teoría de Aperturas, Tomo I: Aperturas Abiertas - Aperturas Semiabiertas. ISBN 84-270-0132-0.
 * Schiller, Eric (2002). Standard Chess Openings. ISBN 1-58042-048-6.