Italian Game: Scotch Invitation Declined

A solid and classical chess opening, the Italian Game: Scotch Invitation Declined focuses on early development of knights and bishops while maintaining a flexible pawn structure.

The opening is a variation of the Italian Game, one of the oldest and most classical chess openings. It is characterized by a solid pawn structure and early development of knights and bishops, with the main idea being to control the center of the board with pawns and pieces while preparing for a potential kingside attack.

In this particular variation, Black declines the invitation to enter the Scotch Game by not capturing the pawn on d4. Instead, Black opts for a more solid pawn structure by playing d6, supporting the e5 pawn and preparing to develop the light-squared bishop. This move also allows Black to maintain a flexible pawn structure, useful in the middlegame.

White's main plan is to continue developing pieces and potentially prepare for a kingside attack. The light-squared bishop on c4 is well-placed to support this plan, targeting the f7 square, often a key weakness in Black's position.

Black aims to complete development and potentially counterattack in the center or on the queenside. The knights on f6 and c6 are well-placed to support this plan, controlling key central squares and potentially being used in pawn breaks or piece exchanges.

Overall, the Italian Game: Scotch Invitation Declined is a solid and classical opening that can lead to rich middlegame positions with chances for both sides. It is a good choice for players preferring a more solid and less tactical approach to the opening phase of the game.