Queen's Gambit

Overview

The Queen's Gambit (1. d4 d5 2. c4) is one of the oldest and most respected openings in chess. White offers a pawn to gain central control, and Black must decide whether to accept, decline, or counter-attack. It leads to rich strategic positions favored at every level of play.

Position after 1. d4 d5 2. c4

Key Ideas

• White offers the c4-pawn to undermine Black's d5-center. It is not a true gambit because White can usually regain the pawn.
• The Queen's Gambit Declined (2...e6) is the most solid response, keeping the center firm.
• The Queen's Gambit Accepted (2...dxc4) gives up the center temporarily but frees Black's game.
• White typically develops with Nc3, Nf3, Bg5, e3, and plays for a central break with e4.

Main Variations

Step through each line move by move — use the arrow controls, click a move in the list, or press the arrow keys on your keyboard.

History

The Queen's Gambit has been a cornerstone of championship chess since the 19th century. It was the dominant opening in the Capablanca-Alekhine matches and remains a favorite of Carlsen, Caruana, and Ding Liren.