I am completely ignoring rating of player, entertainment value, etc when I say this. I speak purely from a theoretical perspective.
The Scotch Game is stronger, theoretically more sound, and not figured out all the way to a draw for Black if he wants it. The Scotch Gambit has been basically figured out to a drawn position for Black.
Another thing to keep in mind is once Black plays 2...Nc6, you can virtually force the Scotch Game. You cannot force the Scotch Gambit and would need to know Two Knights theory with 4.d4 as Black can transpose into that rather than going into a pure Scotch Gambit.
Multiple reasons why 4.Nxd4 is the strongest move for White and not 4.Bc4.
Which is better and why?
I am considering incorporating these openings into my white repertoire but wonder if one of these would be better to undertake than the other. I know the Scotch received a revival of sorts from Kasparov, but some people think it can be slow or boring. Maybe the same people who call the Caro-Kann boring?
The impression is that the Scotch gambit is more swashbuckling and tactic laden. But can't the Scotch gambit be forced into the slow and boring Giuoco Piano or even into lines of the Max Lange that are favorable for black (forced draws)?
I need some fact based opinions on which of these two options is a better choice.