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

= Philidor Defence: Exchange Variation =

The Exchange Variation of the Philidor Defense is a well-known response from Black in the game of chess, aiming to immediately address the central tension.

Initial Moves

 * 1) e4 e5
 * 2) Nf3 d6
 * 3) d4 exd4  Black elects to take White's d4 pawn using the e5 pawn, instigating the Exchange Variation.

Initial Moves

 * By taking on d4, Black instantly relieves the central tension.
 * White has a choice: recapture the pawn with the Knight (Nxd4) or the Queen (Qd4). Both options carry their implications:
 * Queen Recapture (Qxd4): This move exposes the Queen to potential tempo gains from Black, particularly the 4...Nc6 move.
 * Knight Recapture (Nxd4): This seems more logical, positioning the Knight centrally. In response, Black often plays 4...Nf6, directly attacking the e4 pawn. To counter this, White usually defends with 5. Nc3.

Initial Moves

 * By opting for the Exchange Variation, Black sacrifices considerable center control, particularly White's well-positioned pawn and Knight.
 * The immediate and most common response from Black, 3...exd4, eases the central tension but at the cost of central control.

Initial Moves

 * The Exchange Variation tends to be less advantageous for Black. Unlike other variations, Black neither retains a strong grip over the e5 square nor effectively counters White's central pawns.
 * Novices frequently use this move to swiftly resolve central tension and steer clear of advanced variations, especially those leading to Queen exchanges.

Theory table
. '''1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6 3.d4 exd4'''