1.e4 — the open games
King's Gambit
1.e4 e5 2.f4ECO C30–C39
The great romantic gambit: White sacrifices a pawn to rip open the f-file and centre for a direct attack. Rare at the top today, but a thrilling way to learn the initiative — and the game that produced the Immortal Game.
Key ideas
- 2.f4 offers a pawn to blast open lines toward the black king.
- White plays for rapid development and a kingside assault.
- Sharp and risky: Black can hold the extra pawn but must survive the attack.
Who it suits
Attacking players who want to learn the initiative and don't fear sharp, unbalanced positions.
Add it to your repertoire.
Drill the King's Gambit move by move against the board until it's second nature.
Open the trainer