| WHITE. | BLACK. | ||
| 1. | P to K 4 | ... |
This move allows most scope for the development of two pieces. P to Q 4 also allows this, but it gives less scope to the Queen.
| ... | 1. | P to K 4 |
The same observations apply to Black's first move.
| 2. | Kt to K B 3 | ... |
The aim of the player being a quick development of his forces, it is advisable to bring each piece into play by attacking an adverse piece or Pawn immediately, if possible. The Kt here attacks Black's K P.
| ... | 2. | Kt to Q B 3 |
This move not only defends the attacked Pawn, but at the same time brings a piece into play, and thus establishes an equilibrium in the development. 2. ... Q or K 2, or 2. ... Q to B 3, would be unfavourable defences, because the former move would prevent the development of the K B, and the latter the sortie of the Knight, besides exposing
the Queen to attack. It may be taken as a general rule that it should be avoided as much as possible to defend pieces of less value with pieces of greater value. Black could also play here 2. ... P to Q 3, which is called Philidor's Defence, or reply, by 2. ... Kt to K B 3, with an attack upon White's K P, which is called Petroff's Defence. These will be treated later on.
| 3. | B to B 4 | ... |