King's Gambit Declined: Classical Variation

1.e4 e5 2.f4 Bc5

Black does not have to play into the hands of the bold King's Gambiteer. Instead, he can refuse the pawn while developing the bishop to a square which prevents White from castling.

Pros:

  • Avoids the messiness of the King's Gambit Accepted
  • Prevents castling by White
  • Develops a piece

Cons:

  • Allows White to get away with the space gaining flank blow f2-f4
  • White can later open the f-file for attack
  • The bishop on c5 can later be exchanged by Na4
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