Opening Overview
King's Gambit Declined
53 linesAbout This Opening
King's Gambit Declined is a gambit-style opening that prioritizes initiative, piece activity, and practical complications.
The main practical question is whether the side offering material can keep the initiative long enough to justify the concession. Expect open lines, active pieces, and tactical moments around the king and center.
For training, focus on the standard responses, the point where the gambit can be accepted or declined, and the central counterplay that prevents the attack from becoming one-sided.
Key ideas
- Typical theme: activity and initiative over immediate material balance.
- Watch for early tactical shots and forcing move orders.
- Best for players who want sharp, practical positions.
- Study both acceptance and refusal plans so you know the main branches.
Choose a variation
King's Gambit Declined: Falkbeer Countergambit, Charousek Gambit, Keres Variation
1. e4 e5 2. f4 d5 3. exd5 e4 4. d3 Nf6 5. Nd2
King's Gambit Declined: Falkbeer Countergambit, Charousek Gambit, Main Line
1. e4 e5 2. f4 d5 3. exd5 e4 4. d3 Nf6 5. dxe4 Nxe4 6. Nf3 Bc5 7. Qe2 Bf5
King's Gambit Declined: Falkbeer Countergambit, Charousek Gambit, Old Line
1. e4 e5 2. f4 d5 3. exd5 e4 4. d3 Nf6 5. Qe2
King's Gambit Declined: Falkbeer Countergambit, Charousek Variation
1. e4 e5 2. f4 d5 3. exd5 e4 4. d3 Nf6 5. dxe4 Nxe4 6. Qe2 Qxd5 7. Nd2 f5 8. g4
King's Gambit Declined: Falkbeer Countergambit, Tarrasch Variation
1. e4 e5 2. f4 d5 3. exd5 e4 4. d3 Nf6 5. dxe4 Nxe4 6. Nf3 Bc5 7. Qe2 Bf5 8. g4 O-O