Scotch Game, Göring Gambit

The Göring Gambit begins with 4.c3, when White advances the c2-pawn to c3 before recovering Black's pawn on d4. A gambit is a deliberate offer of material, meaning a pawn or piece, in return for another advantage. White allows the d4-pawn to capture on c3 and hopes to recapture with the knight, bring it out quickly, and open diagonals for the bishops.

If Black accepts with 4...dxc3, White can play 5.Nxc3 and bring a piece into immediate action. White may also choose 5.Bc4, offering a second pawn to accelerate the attack even further. Black does not have to accept. Returning the pawn or playing ...d5 can occupy the center and make it harder for White to bring the pieces out.

White's compensation is the initiative, meaning the ability to make threats that force the opponent to respond. That advantage is not permanent. If White fails to open lines or bring the pieces out quickly, the game may continue with White simply a pawn down and without an attack. The Classical Variation brings out the pieces without a sacrifice, while the Mieses Variation fights for the center by pressuring e4.