Amos Burn: A Chess Legend

libro di scacchi, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Who Was Amos Burn?

Amos Burn (1848–1925) was one of the most influential chess players of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for his tenacity and strategic brilliance, Burn left a lasting legacy in the chess world. This post dives into his life, notable games, and resources to explore his contributions further.

Amos Burn’s Legacy in Chess

Amos Burn was not only a formidable player but also a prolific chess writer. His games and writings continue to inspire chess enthusiasts today. Below, we’ve curated a list of articles, games, and videos to help you learn more about this chess legend.

Articles About Amos Burn

• Amos Burn: The Tenacious Englishman – A detailed Chessbase article covering Burn’s history, tournament standings, and 5 interactive games.
• Amos Burn: Chess Player, Writer, and Eponym of The Burn Variation – The Chess Journal explores Burn’s famous games, openings, and a brief biography.
• Burning Ships! – GM Julio Becerra shares a short history of Burn and 5 puzzles based on his amazing moves.
• The Great Burn (1848–1925) – Edward Winter’s article on two of Burn’s games and their historical significance.
• Burn Life and Games: Champion of Cologne 1898 – A deep dive into Burn’s bibliography, analyzed games, and puzzles.

Notable Games by Amos Burn

• 365Chess.com Amos Burn Games Page – Explore 411 games played by Amos Burn, including his repertoire.
• Macdonald vs Burn, Liverpool, 1910 – Edward Winter discusses Burn’s brilliant move, 33…Qg4, in this historic game.

Videos Featuring Amos Burn’s Games

• Learn From The Old Masters | Akiba Rubinstein vs Amos Burn: Ostend 1906 – A 4-minute analysis of the Queen’s Gambit Declined: Barmen Variation (D37).
• A Chess Shocker | Amos Burn vs John Owen: Liverpool ENG 1874 – A 3-minute breakdown of the Pirc Defense: General (B07).
• Bird's Attack Burned The Board | Henry Edward Bird vs Amos Burn: London 1886 – A 4-minute look at the Italian Game: Bird's Attack (C53).
• The Field Man vs Schlechter | Carl Schlechter vs Amos Burn: Ostend 1906 – A 6-minute analysis of the Queen’s Gambit Declined: Orthodox Defense. Rubinstein Variation (D61).
• Amos Burn vs Emanuel Lasker: Hastings 1895 – A 4-minute breakdown of the Tarrasch Defense: Symmetrical Variation (D40).

Why Amos Burn Matters Today

Amos Burn’s contributions to chess extend beyond his games. His writings and strategic insights continue to influence players and theorists. By studying his games and life, modern chess enthusiasts can gain a deeper appreciation for the evolution of chess strategy.

Explore More About Amos Burn

If you’re passionate about chess history, Amos Burn is a figure worth studying. Dive into the resources above to learn more about his life, games, and enduring legacy.

Zugzwang: When Every Move Leads to Trouble

 

Zugzwang Explained: A Chess Resource Guide 

Feeling forced to make a bad move? In chess, that's Zugzwang!

This guide equips you with valuable resources to understand and practice Zugzwang, from in-depth articles and interactive puzzles to instructive game analyses and insightful video lessons.

Zugzwang Wikipedia Page 

 Good sized page on this topic with history and examples.

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BOOKS (FREE)

• Zugzwang - Chess Tactics -9 page PDF ) I Believe this is a chapter from some book.
  
  
• Chess zugzwang puzzles 1 to 10 - 8 page PDF

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Zugzwang Chess Articles: Sharpen Your Tactics

Dive into strategy guides, tackle challenging puzzles, and witness the power of Zugzwang in action through analyzed games.

• What is Zugzwang and How Can You Win Chess Games With This Idea - Nice Article (In Depth) - It covers strategies on how to induce Zugzwang, provides examples from famous games, and explains related terms like zwischenzug (intermediate move), highlighting their importance in chess tactics and endgames.
  
  
• Zugzwang Article - by GM Julio Becerra on Chess.com -  showing you the “Zugzwang Immortal Game” between Saemisch-Nimzowitsch
  
  
• Chess Puzzles: The Art of Zugzwang - Article by GM Lubomir Kavalek - 3 Famous Puzzles to Solve.
  
  
• Zugzwang in Chess (The Beginner’s Guide) - Chessable Blog Guide (In-Depth) - really extensive Guide showing many places in chess where this concept has to be considered.
  
  
• Zugzwang in Chess: Everything You Need To Know - Article w/ Embedded Video Lesson
  
  
• Zugzwang: How It Works and Why It Matters in Chess - GM Igor Smirnov - Nice solid easy to understand Article.

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ZugZwang LiChess Studies

Put your Zugzwang understanding to the test with this collection of interactive Lichess studies! 

• Zugzwang Hard and Nice Puzzles - 13 Chapter - Interactive Study
  
  
• Zugzwang.Exercises - 11 Chapter -  Interactive Study
  
  
• Paul Morphy zugzwang puzzle variations - 18 Chapter - Interactive Study
  
  
• Zugzwang: Endgame - 11 Chapter - K&P Endgame Puzzles

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move, perfect for testing your understanding and deepening your knowledge.

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Game Databases

Delve into the world of real-life Zugzwang with these curated game collections:

Chessgames.com 

• Collection of 34 Games - extraordinary examples featuring Zugzwang from 
  
  
• Zugzwang Greats !! - 36 Games

By studying these games, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how Zugzwang manifests in real-world chess scenarios. You'll observe how grandmasters create Zugzwang situations, exploit their opponent's limitations, and ultimately secure victory.

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Tactics

Sharpen your tactical vision 

Lichess Tactics Trainer

•  ZugZwang Puzzles - 26,262 Puzzles
  
  

By consistently practicing Zugzwang puzzles on Lichess, you'll develop the ability to identify these situations in your own games and exploit them for a winning advantage. So, dive in and start honing those tactics!

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Zugzang Chess Video Lessons

What is Zugzwang In Chess? 🎓 Beginner Chess Lessons - GM Damian Lemos - 15 Min - Damian tackles a topic that can be crucial in chess games, but is often overlooked by beginners: Zugzwang.

What Is "Zugzwang" In Chess? - 5 Min - NM Nelson Lopez - In this video I show an example from a recent game where I achieved zugzwang on my opponent.  
Chess.com: Endgame Technique; Zugzwang - 4 Min - GM Friedel analyzes what could be a very difficult endgame. But with the application of the principle of zugzwang, he is able to make everything clear.

Chess Endgames: Using Zugzwang!  -8 Min Video (by IM Kostya Kavutskiy) - Kostya Kavutskiy brings us an interesting example of Zugzwang in the endgame!

Saemich vs Nimzovich (1923) - 10 min Video -Kingscrusher.

   (The Immortal Zugzwang Game)

  Video Below

Alekhine - Nimzowitsch - 11 Min Video (With a Zugzwang Theme) - Great zugzwang ending

Rook vs Pawn Endgame Study - (1928 Reti Endgame Study) - For having so few pieces, it is really a fantastic piece which showcases opposition, zugzwang, and king shouldering. If you can master this ending you will have no problem with most Rook vs. Pawn positions!

Most Incredible Zugzwang Of All Time?! - 22Min - IM Danny Rensch - IM Danny Rensch as he breaks down this epic game between Stoofvlees and Stockfish during the 15th Computer Chess Championship

Grand Prix Attack (McDonnell Attack) B21 B23 - Chess Opening Theory

Grand Prix Attack (McDonnell Attack) Resources:
 A Powerful Weapon Against the Sicilian 

The Grand Prix Attack (1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. f4) is an aggressive opening that aims to create a strong pawn center and launch a kingside attack against Black. It's a great choice for players who enjoy dynamic and tactical positions.

Benefits of the Grand Prix Attack:

• Central Pawn Advance: The f4 pawn push establishes a strong central presence and opens lines for White's pieces.
• King Safety: Early development helps White castle kingside quickly, promoting safety and attacking potential.
• Initiative and Pressure: The aggressive nature puts Black on the defensive from the outset.
• Unusual and Unorthodox: This less common opening can catch opponents off guard.
• Dynamic and Tactical Play: The open lines often lead to exciting tactical opportunities.
  

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Gran Prix Attack Articles

This section equips you with a treasure trove of Gran Prix articles to master this aggressive opening and unlock your attacking potential.

Grand Prix Attack: Guide to Beat the Sicilian - Solid Article on Learning Attack - Uncover the core attacking plans in the GPA. This guide explores kingside pawn thrusts, optimal piece placement, and how to exploit Black's weaknesses for a decisive victory.

Playing the Grand Prix Attack Against the Sicilian - Chessable Blog Guide (Detailed) -  Delve into the rich history and strong statistical performance of the GPA. This in-depth Chessable blog post equips you with variations favored by chess masters.

Sicilian Defense: The Grand Prix Attack - Opening Guide - IM Alberto Chueca - Explore the strategic nuances of the GPA with IM Chueca. Learn key variations, gain historical context, and discover how to surprise your opponent with this aggressive opening

Grand Prix Attack - An Attacking Chess Opening - MyChessTutor - Stuck facing the Sicilian Defense? The Grand Prix Attack offers an aggressive escape! This guide explores its rich history, strong statistics, and variations favored by Caruana and Carlsen, making it perfect for surprising your opponent in faster time controls.

Grand Prix Attack articles from Inside Chess online.
This comprehensive guide by IM Zoran Ilic (archived) explores the opening in depth, analyzing variations, historical context, and strategic ideas to help you master this aggressive weapon against the Sicilian Defense.
Part One
Part Two

Tal Gambit - Wikipedia Page (2...d5 is the Tal Gambit)
( Nowadays, modern Grand Prix Attack players play 2.Nc3 before playing 3.f4.)While not strictly a "Grand Prix Attack" itself, the Tal Gambit (2...d5) is a closely related aggressive response by Black. Understanding this gambit will further enhance your knowledge of the opening complex and provide insights for both White and Black.

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Gran Prix LiChess Studies: Sharpen Your Skills

Lichess offers a wealth of interactive studies to hone your Grand Prix Attack repertoire. Here's your personalized training ground:

• The Grand Prix Attack  -  11 Chapter Study  (100 hearts) - 11 Games Broken into Attacking and Positional Themes.
  
  
• Grand Prix Attack  - 8 Chapter Interactive Study  (430 hearts) - Fully Interactive Study showing Gran Prix against different Sicilians
  
  
• Grand Prix Attack(games)  - 20 Chapter Study - 20 Gran Prix Games
  
  
• Grand Prix Attack  - 15 Chapter Study - Nice Study w/explanations and examples against different Sicilian Lines
  
  
• Closed Sicilian and Grand Prix Attack - 7 Chapter Study - 3 Indepth Explanations w/ 4 Top Games
  
  
• Sicilian Defense, McDonnell/Gran Prix Attack - 7 Chapter Study -  Broken into each different 3rd Move for white with explanations.
  
  
• BEATING THE GRANDPRIX - 6 Chapter Study  (49 Hearts) - Nice study with an Interactive Quiz.

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move, perfect for testing your understanding and deepening your knowledge.

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LISTUDY   
( Practice it with a Movetrainer)

Gran Prix   -  Gran Prix Attack against 1...c4  -  7 Variations to Learn and Practice
Defending Grand Prix  - 1 variation

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GAME DATABASES

365Chess.com

• B21: Sicilian, Grand Prix attack 1. e4 c5 2. f4  -  7700 games
• B23: Sicilian, closed 1. e4 c5 2. Nc3  - 79,735 games
• B23: Sicilian, Grand Prix attack 1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. f4  - 12,000 Games
• B23: Sicilian, Grand Prix attack, Schofman variation 1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. f4 g6 4. Nf3 Bg7 5. Bc4 e6 6. f5  - 1100 Games

Chessgames.com

• Sicilian Closed / Grand Prix Attack - 88 Games Chess games.com
• B21 Macdonnel Attack [White] - 42 Games

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Gran Prix Attack Chess Video Lessons

Here's a curated selection of video lessons to elevate your Grand Prix Attack against the Sicilian Defense:

How to WIN with the Grand Prix Attack! 34 Min IM Rozman (Gotham) - a detailed guide on using the Grand Prix Attack against the Sicilian Defense. The Grand Prix Attack is a chess opening strategy that was developed in the 1980s and is known for its effectiveness with minimal preparation

Grand Prix Attack ⎸Sicilian Defense Theory - 22 Min - Hanging Pawns - provides an in-depth analysis of the Grand Prix Attack

Chess Openings - Sicilian Defense: Gran Prix Attack - 18 Min - Krishna Prem - provides an introduction to the Grand Prix Attack

Hikaru Reveals His ENTIRE Grand Prix Preparation - 12 Min GM Nakamura - preparation for the Grand Prix line of the Sicilian Defense.

Gran Prix: System with Bb5 - 29 Min Video (Instructive Dark Sq grip game)

The Killer Gran Prix Attack - 13 Min Video (GM Gawain Jones examines opening)

Chess Openings: How to Punish Sicilian Najdorf Players with Grand Prix Attack!! - 40 Min IM  Miodrag Perunovic. - Learn how to gain the upper hand against the Sicilian Najdorf by using the Grand Prix Attack. Understand the ideas behind black's second move d6 in the Najdorf, Dragon and Scheveningen variations, and White's strategies to punish it. Discover the attacking potential and specific lines White can employ with the Grand Prix Attack to seize the initiative against the Najdorf. Study grandmaster games to see how top players have crushed the Najdorf with this opening weapon.

Chess Openings: Learn to Play the Grand Prix Attack! - 24 Min - Chess Giant -This video explores key themes and strategies to understand the Grand Prix Attack, not just memorize lines. Perfect for beginners and intermediate players! Plus, a secret opening trap revealed! 
Grand Prix Attack Secrets - 40 Min - IM Paulo Bersamina - Learn the key ideas and strategies behind the Grand Prix Attack against the Sicilian Defense. Understand the advantages of the Closed Sicilian and Grand Prix Attack lines, as well as the important pawn advances like f4 and e5 to control the center and build an strong pawn structure.

Crush the Sicilian with the Grand Prix Attack - 2.5Hr  GM King - Chessbase India - GM Daniel King provides a comprehensive tutorial on using the Grand Prix Attack as a formidable weapon against the Sicilian Defense for 1.e4 players. Learn the theory, plans and practical tips from a renowned chess trainer to effectively crush the Sicilian with the Grand Prix Attack lines.

The Grand Prix Attack with Eugene Perelshteyn! - 1 Hr - U.S. Chess School -Eugene Perelshteyn explains key concepts, tactics, and variations through a practice game and interactive Q&A, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the Grand Prix Attack.

Battling the Grand Prix with Black

Explore strategies for Black to counter the Grand Prix Attack.

• Sicilian Grand Prix Attack Refuted!! - 16 Min
  
  
• Chess made EASY: Refuting the Grand Prix Attack - 14 Min
  
  
• Pragg's outrageous new idea against the Sicilian Grand Prix - 4 Min
  
  
• Black Repertoire against Sicilian Grand Prix Attack - 39 Min GM Paragua
  
  
• Ready to Finally Slay Grand Prix Attack (GPA)? - Be my Guest!! - 28 Min IM Perunovic
  
  
• Attacking in the Sicilian, Grand Prix Attack - Understanding Your Openings #2 - 39 Min IM Andras Toth
  
  
• Facing the Anti Sicilians | Grandmaster Opening Repertoire - 56 Min - GM Moulhan Lee

Gran Prix Attack Game Videos (w/Analysis)

Gran Prix Attack - Anand vs Gefland 1996   - 36 Min Video
Magnus Carlsen Plays Model Grand Prix Attack in a Bullet Game - 4 Min
Carlsen vs Ding || MC Invitational (2020) - 7 Min
Grand Prix Attack vs Sicilian Defence : Anthony Saidy vs Bobby Fischer : New York (1968) - 22 Min

Tal Gambit Videos

• Tal gambit! - Bill Hartston vs Mikhail Tal notable game - 19 Min
• Slay the McDonnell Attack with Tal's Gambit - 32 Min
• Sicilian Tal Gambit - The Hartston Tal Line (trap no. 616) - 5 Min
• Blitz miniature - Tal gambit - 15 Min

Zwischenzug (Intermezzo): The Surprise Weapon in Your Chess Arsenal

"When you see a good move, look for a better one." - Emanuel Lasker

 
Zwischenzug Chess Resources

Have you ever been outmaneuvered in chess, feeling like your opponent pulled a rabbit out of a hat?

That surprise move might have been a Zwischenzug (pronounced "tvee-SHEN-tsoog"), also known as intermezzo, a powerful chess tactic that throws a curveball into your opponent's plans.

  Instead of making the expected move, like capturing a piece, a Zwischenzug inserts an unexpected move that creates a new threat or disrupts your strategy. Mastering this tactic will transform you from a predictable player to a cunning strategist, allowing you to exploit unexpected opportunities and gain a significant advantage.

Zwischenzug Wikipedia page
 With explanations and examples

German "in-between move". An unexpected move tossed into an expected series of moves.

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BOOKS (FREE)

ZWISCHENZUG – GERMAN; INTERMEZZO; ITALIAN IN-BETWEEN MOVE - 2 Page PDF Handout - Couple Examples w/ 6 Puzzles

Chess Tactics and Combinations - 84 Page PDF - Exeter Chess Club - Short Violent Games of Chess Organized by Theme. (Page 34 Intermezzo)

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Zwischenzug Chess Articles 

Gain a comprehensive understanding of Zwischenzug with informative articles that explain the concept, showcase examples, and offer strategic insights.

• Chess Tactics Simplified: The Zwischenzug! - Nice Article with Examples at Bottom
  
  
• ZWISCHENZUG: THE TACTICAL PATTERN THAT CAN SAVE YOU - Article with examples
  
  
• Tactics 101: The Incredible Intermezzo (a.k.a. Zwischenzug) - Nice Article
  
  
• Zwischenzug: An Unexpected Tactic of Grandmasters - The Chess Journal Article
  
  
• Zwischenzug - Chess Kid Article w/ Embedded Video
  
  
• Zwischenzug – the intermediate move - Chessbase Article - Nice Explanation w/ 8 Annotated games with this tactic. (Nice)

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Annotated Game Databases

Analyze real-world applications of Zwischenzug by studying annotated games from renowned players, featuring both winning and defensive maneuvers.

 FM Asa Hoffman vs NM Jim West - From Jim West's Blog (Annotated by both players)

Chessgames.com

• Chess Games with a Zwischenzug - 43 games (Some nicely annotated games here)
• Chess Games with a Zwischenzug -  14 Games
• In-Between Move Tactic-- OTB Examples - 25 Games 

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Lichess Studys

Test your newfound knowledge and sharpen your tactical vision with interactive LiChess studies that present a variety of Zwischenzug scenarios.

• LiChess Zwischenzug Study - LiChess Basic Tactics Area 
  
  
• Zwischenzug - 9 Chapter Study w/ Instruction - Well Done
  
  
• Intermediate: Tactics Internalized - Zwischenzug - 5 Chapter Interactive Study
  
  
• In between/ Zwischenzug/ Intermezzo - 29 Chapter Study -  All Positions
  
  
• The Intermezzo Practice Set - 26 Chapter Interactive Study - Broken into Themes - Save, Sacrifice, Threaten and Trade

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move, perfect for testing your understanding and deepening your knowledge.

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Zwischenzug Puzzles

Put your skills to the test with challenging puzzles designed to hone your ability to identify and execute Zwischenzug opportunities.

ChessGo.in

• Intermezzo Puzzles - 72 Puzzles (Broken into 8 Pages - by Difficulty) Printable

LiChess Puzzles

• Intermezzo - 55,425 Puzzles
  
  

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Zwishenzug Video Lessons

Learn from the best! Renowned chess instructors take center stage in video lessons, offering clear explanations and practical guidance on mastering Zwischenzug.

• Zwischenzug – Winning with in-between moves - 20 Min - A very important tactical motif in the middlegame – the zwischenzug.
  
  
• The Volatility of In-Between Moves - 9 Min  IM John Bartholomew -  Game between IM Jha Sriram and GM Rajaram Laxman (from the excellent book "Mastering Chess Strategy" by GM Johan Hellsten)
  
  
• Chess Lesson # 44: Zwischenzug | Learn & Master In-between Moves | Intermezzo | Intermediate Moves - 14 Min NM Rober Ramirez - In this lesson, you will learn this tactic and then apply your knowledge by solving some exercises.
  
  
• Zwischenzug | Can you find the solutions to these five positions? - 15 min - GM Daniel King gives you five puzzle positions to solve. (New 6/20/2024)

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St. Louis Chess Club Videos

• Chess for Beginners with GM Ronen Har-Zvi (Intermediate Moves | Forcing Moves) - 32 Min - Discusses intermediate and forcing moves in chess, focusing on the concept of intermediate moves. He uses puzzles to illustrate how these moves can be used to gain material advantage.
  
  
• In-Between Moves and Zwischenzugs - WGM Jennifer Shahade -53 Min - Explores in-between moves in a lecture for intermediate level players.
  
  
• Zwischenzug | Puzzler's Paradise - IM Vitaly Neimer -  35 Min - International Master Vitaly Neimer presents puzzles with a theme of zwischenzug
  
  
• Intermezzo: Put Your Plans on Hold! | Beginner Breakdown -  61 Min - Talks about the Zwischenzug, also known as an "intermezzo" or "intermediate move," which describes a move that is played instead of and before the expected move and poses an immediate threat that the opponent must answer.

Game Video's w/ Analysis

Chess Tactics: Zwischenzug: Lichtenhein vs Morphy - 5 Min

Zwischenzug! || Nakamura vs Carlsen - 10 Min

The Scotch Game: A Comprehensive Resource Guide for White (C44-C45)

 

Feeling hemmed in by the Ruy Lopez? 
 Unleash Your Inner Tactician with the Scotch

• Dynamic and Aggressive: The Scotch Game (1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.d4) is a fantastic opening choice for White players who crave dynamic positions and tactical opportunities. It avoids the complex lines of the Ruy Lopez while offering a rich battlefield for attacking chances.

• Suitable for All Levels: Whether you're a beginner looking for an exciting first opening or a seasoned player seeking new ideas, the Scotch Game offers something for everyone. Its clear development plans and central focus make it easy to learn, while its tactical depth provides a challenge for experienced players.

• Master the Scotch with Free Resources: This comprehensive guide equips you with all the tools you need to conquer the center and launch a fierce attack. We'll explore key variations, sharpen your tactical vision with puzzles, and provide video lessons from Chess GMs to elevate your game.

Let's explore the Scotch Game together!
Scroll down to discover articles, puzzles, video lessons, and more!


Scotch Game Wikipedia Page 
This page offers a solid foundation for understanding the opening's main lines, variations, and key ideas. 

 Wikipedia Links To All the Variation Explanations

• Main variations

  • 2.1

    Main line: 4.Nxd4

    • 2.1.1

      Classical Variation: 4...Bc5

    • 2.1.2

      Schmidt Variation: 4...Nf6

    • 2.1.3

      Steinitz Variation: 4...Qh4!?

  • 2.2

    Scotch Gambit: 4.Bc4

  • 2.3

    Göring Gambit: 4.c3

    • 2.3.1

      4...d5

    • 2.3.2

      Other ways of declining

    • 2.3.3

      One-pawn gambit: 4...dxc3 5.Nxc3

    • 2.3.4

      Double-pawn gambit: 4...dxc3 5.Bc4

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Books & Courses (FREE)

FREE Chessable Course

• The Scotch Gambit Starter Kit - Everything’s covered in just 31 trainable variations. Meaning you can start playing and winning with the Scotch Gambit in the next hour or two.

Internet Archive

500 Scotch Miniatures By Bill Wall - 107 Page PDF


4 Opening Systems to Start With - 50 page PDF - Free Exeter Chess Club PDF (Public Domain E-Book - This booklet gives you a repertoire to play when you are starting out in chess. It also gives you some alternatives if for some reason you don't like my first choice. The core of the repertoire is to play as White the Scotch Gambit.

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Scotch Chess Articles and Lessons

Deepen your theoretical knowledge of the Scotch Game with a collection of in-depth articles from chess experts.

• Scotch Game -  Chess Simplified Guide - This guide explores how to play White and Black in the Scotch Game chess opening, including aggressive strategies and effective counters.
  
  
• The Scotch Opening and Attacking opening for White - Big article on iChess.net - This guide explores why the Scotch is a great opening for various chess styles, how to play it effectively, and variations like the Four Knights and Mieses. (Archived)
  
  
• Chess Opening Basics The Scotch Game - on the Chessable Blog  (Decent Article) - This guide breaks down the core ideas behind the Scotch Game chess opening, making it easy for beginners to understand development and gain space in the center.

 

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Scotch Lichess Studies

Explore interactive training tools to solidify your understanding of the opening's concepts.

• Scotch Gambit - 11 Chapter Study - Nice Look at the Different Lines.
  
  
• Scotch Game - 7 Chapter - This quick Lichess study provides a concise overview of the main Scotch Game lines. (Good for beginners)
    
• Scotch Game w/ Ideas and Outcomes:  - 40 Chapter Study (Interactive)  (Really Well Done) (1100 Hearts) - This comprehensive Lichess study delves into the key ideas and outcomes of various Scotch Game and Gambit lines, featuring interactive puzzles for practice. (Comprehensive guide for all levels)
  
  
• The ultimate Scotch gambit guide - 19 Chapter Study - Lines, and model games

LiStudy   (Learn and Practice opening with Movetrainer)

• Scotch Game (White)  -  24 Lines to Practice
• Scotch Opening Repertoire  - 7 Lines to Practice
• In Depth Scotch Repertoire  -  30 Lines to Practice  (Really Nice)
• Scotch Gambit (Jedi Guide)  -  11 Lines to Practice

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move, perfect for testing your understanding and deepening your knowledge of the Scotch Game. Find the Lichess study that best suits your needs and start mastering the Scotch Game today!

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Scotch Game Chess Puzzles 

Sharpen Your Scotch Game Tactics! Test your skills with a collection of puzzles featuring typical tactical motifs and attacking chances that arise in Scotch Game positions.

(WTHarvey - 10,000 Chess Puzzles) 

Scotch Game (C45) - 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.d4 exd4 4.Nxd4 (10 Puzzles)

LiChess Opening Puzzles

Italian Game: Scotch Gambit - 2221 Puzzles 
Scotch Game - 24,000 Puzzles (Can break down puzzles to 17 variations on main page)

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Games Databases

Analyze real-life games featuring the Scotch and see how it's played in practice.

365Chess.com

• Scotch Game Guide - 43,000 Games
• C45: Scotch game 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 exd4 4. Nxd4 - 29,515 games
• C44: King's pawn game 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 - 324,000 Games

Chessgames.com

• Kings pawn game c44 -  27 Annotated games
• Scotch game c45  - 50 Annotated games

Annotated Games 
 Deep Fritz - Kramnik, Vladimir (2807) [C45] 

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Scotch Game Video Lessons 

Learn from chess masters in video tutorials that explain the Scotch's key ideas and strategies.

Scotch Game Opening Theory - 6 Video Playlist - Hanging Pawns

ST Louis Chess Club Videos 

The Scotch Game - Chess Openings Explained  - 45 Min - Jonathan Schrantz teaches the Scotch Game, an underestimated opening that releases tension in the center early. Besides two notable games, the Goering gambit and the Dubois-Reti defence are also covered.
Let's Do Scotch! | Chess and Psychology - IM Dorsa Derakhshani - 52 Min - Dorsa Derakhshani takes you inside her head as she relives her games in the Scotch Game or Scotch Opening.

Opening Problems | Scotch | French | King's Indian - GM Yasser Seirawan - 50 Min - Intermediate-level lecture at the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis. Club member Ken West asks for help in the Scotch

Nick Risko
Series on the Scotch Game or Scotch Opening.

• A Shot of Scotch #1: Third Move Sidelines | Chess Openings Explained - 69 Min
• A Shot of Scotch #2: Scotch Gambit, Bc5 Lines | Chess Openings Explained - 56 Min
• A Shot of Scotch #3: Scotch Gambit, Dubois Reti & Nakhmanson | Chess Openings Explained - 63 min
• A Shot of Scotch #4: Göring Gambit | Chess Openings Explained - 41 Min
• A Shot of Scotch #5: Queen Moves | Chess Openings Explained - 51 Min
• A Shot of Scotch: The Napoleon Gambit | Chess Openings Explained - 18 Min

 
A Magical Chess Opening for ALL Levels - 16 Min (Potter Variation)  IM Rozman - The Scotch, in particular the Potter Variation. A very easy opening for beginners who are looking to get good at chess.

Chess Openings: How To Play The Scotch Gambit - Quickstarter Jedi Guide - 31 Min

Attack with the Scotch and Giuoco Piano! - GM Roman Dzindzichashvili - 35 Min

DOMINATE with Black against the Scotch Gambit! (EMPIRE CHESS) - 16 Min - GM Victor Mikhalevski demonstrates the perils awaiting any unprepared player with the black pieces against the Scotch Gambit along with several impressive examples of successful defense.

Scotch Gambit 

Scotch Gambit  - 11 Video Playlist - FM James Canty III

• The Best Chess Opening against 1...e5 | Scotch Gambit Traps - 19 Min - Instead of taking the pawn back with 4.Nxd4, White plays in gambit style, sacrificing the pawn, for rapid development and great attacking opportunities. You'll enjoy this line a lot because it is solid, aggressive, and easy to learn.
  
  
• The Scotch Gambit: Great Examples and Ideas for White! - 26 Min  Ichess.net - Roman looks at a number of Scotch Gambit lines with emphasis upon White maintaining an advantage in every possible line.
  
  
• The Max Lange Attack in the Scotch Gambit | An Opening full of Traps | IM Alex Astaneh - 24 Min - Showing you the Max Lange Attack that can arise out of the Scotch Gambit. The Max Lange Attack is not only popular at the master level but also at the club level as it offers a dynamic play.
  
  
• How to Play the Scotch Gambit | Grandmaster Repertoire - 40 Min GM Moulthun - Molton dissects variations after White gambits the d-pawn (4.Bc4) in the Scotch Game. Learn aggressive ideas to capitalize on the pawn sacrifice!
  
  
• Grab the Initiative and become unstoppable with the Scotch Gambit! - 20 Min  GM Roman Dzindzichashvili - Roman looks at unexpected variations to get a good position in the Scotch Gambit with 4.Bc4 rather than capturing The Pawn in the main Line Scotch with 4.Nxd4 is his featured game.

 

Goring Gambit 

Goring Gambit Series - 10 Video Playlist - AS Chess School

Chess Openings: Learn to Play the Goring Gambit! - 21 Min - The Chess Giant - Solomon Rodell explores this aggressive gambit (1.e4 c6 2.Nf3 3.d4 exd4 4.c3!). Learn how to punish Black's unusual defense!

The NEW (and better!) Danish Gambit | Repertoire: Goring Gambit - 32 Min - FM William Graf - Surprise your opponent with a sneaky gambit! Graif explores this aggressive line (1.e4 Nf3 3.c3 4.d4!) for White in the Danish Gambit. Sacrifice for a tempo and dominate the center! (You Transpose to the Scotch)

Attacking Chess Gambit against 1.e5 (Goring Gambit) - 30 Min - In-depth tutorial on the Goring Gambit, an aggressive chess opening strategy against 1.e5.

Chess Opening for Black (Goring Gambit) - 20 Min - A comprehensive guide on how to counter the Goring Gambit in chess when playing as black.

Scotch Game | Göring Gambit - 21 Min - Hanging Pawns - The Göring Gambit is a very aggressive, highly provocative and slightly unsound continuation for white. He gives up a full pawn for development and an attempt for a deadly initiative.  (New - 6/10/2024)

Scotch Game Traps

• Chess Trap 27 (Counter-Trap Against Scotch Gambit) - 12 Min
  
  
• Deadly Scotch Game Trap | Hyper-Aggressive Opening for White - 7 Min
  
  
• Chess TRAPS in the Scotch Gambit opening! ♔ Paul Morphy ♕ QUEEN Sac! - 3 Min
  
  
• Scotch gambit chess opening - strong attacking traps you should know - 15 Min - We take a look at Scotch gambit game and some amazing attacking options and "traps" white has prepared for player playing the black pieces by not allowing him to castle.
  
  Best Chess Opening for White After 1.e4 | Scotch Gambit Traps - 16 Min - GM Igor Smirnov - Out of the 3 most common responses of Black, 2 moves are huge mistakes and lose the game for Black immediately.
  
  
• Best Chess Opening for White After 1.e4 | Scotch Gambit Traps - 16 Min - GM Igor Smirnov - Out of the 3 most common responses of Black, 2 moves are huge mistakes and lose the game for Black immediately.

Black Side of the Scotch

 GJ_Chess

• Chess Opening for Black (Scotch Game - 1)  - 26 Min - GJ_Chess
• Chess Opening for Black (Scotch Game - 2)  - 27 Min  - GJ_Chess
• Chess Opening for Black (Evans Gambit) - 22 Min - GJ CHess

How to play against the Scotch  -  24 Min - NM Robert Plunketts lab - I go over all the main options and some of the trickiest options for black on how to play against the Scotch opening

Scotch Game - A Short, Simple Repertoire for Black - 21 Min - A brief, easy-to-remember repertoire for Black against the Scotch Game (1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.d4).

Chess Opening For Black against E4 | Scotch Game - 6 Min - Coach Kestony 

My SECRET Anti-Scotch Opening System [No Theory] - 19 Min - GM Igor Smirnov - You will cut down on a lot of opening theory by learning a single variation that can be played against all these lines. The London Defense variation, which occurs after 4...Bb4+ in the Scotch Gambit, forces White to react to the check, thus limiting their choices. You will also learn the common opening mistakes to avoid, middlegame plans, typical attacking ideas, and some deadly traps

Scotch GAME VIDEOS (w/Analysis)

Scotch Opening  - 60 Video Playlist - Chess School
Scotch Game  - 12 Video Playlist  - agadmantor
Scotch Game  - 68 Video playlist - kingscrusher

This Guy Just Demolished a Super GM with SCOTCH GAMBIT - 12 Min - Awonder Liang just won an incredibly beautiful game with the Scotch Gambit against Levon Aronian

GM Naroditsky
Amazing Game Videos w/ Lots of Analysis and GM lessons.

• Beginner To Master | Chess Speedrun | Scotch Game  - 20 Min
• Master Class | The Scotch Game | Chess Speedrun  - 34 min
• Scotch Gambit (AMAZING Game) | The Sensei Speedrun  - 61 Min
• Scotch Game: Göring, Main Line | The Sensei Speedrun - 28 Min 

"Fortune favors the bold." - Virgil (Poet)