lichess.org
Donate

How to respond to refused Scandinavian defense

I've been trying out some different openings recently just for fun. One that I have been seeing is the Scandinavian defense for black. I'm sort of interested in it to be honest.

My question is, after e4, d5, then e5 (which is what some people are playing against me), how should black respond? Stockfish suggests c5, but is there a better plan to have in mind?
You can take the pawn, just be prepared for an edgy game where white has heavy attacking potential. Typical play proceeds 3.Nc3 Nf6 4.f3 exf3 5.Nxf3.

Alternatively, 2...e6 becomes the French Defence, while 2...c6 becomes the Caro-Kann, both lines holding a very solid reputation.

In the French, white may try 3.Nc3, 3.Nd2 or 3.e5. They may also exchange with exd5 or play Bd3 or Be3.

In the Caro-Kann, white will typically play 3.Nc3, 3.exd5 or 3.e5, more rarely playing 3.Nd2 or 3.f3.
The first line you suggested is fine, but I was asking about if white refused the pawn, not accepted it. :)

As for the other lines, I assume that these are suggestions for capturing black's pawn as well.

My big question is what should I play as black on move two if the decline the pawn?
check youtube jhon bartholomew (fins) for lots of videos with that opening

This topic has been archived and can no longer be replied to.