Scandinavian: 2...Qxd5 3.d4

Scandinavian: 2...Qxd5 3.d4

Definition

The sequence 1.e4 d5 2.exd5 Qxd5 3.d4 belongs to the Scandinavian Defence, also called the Center-Counter Defence. After Black recaptures the pawn on d5 with the queen (2…Qxd5), White immediately challenges the centre with 3.d4, gaining time because the exposed queen can be hit by Nc3 on the next move. This line is often referred to as the “3.d4 main line” or simply “3.d4 variation” of the Scandinavian.

Typical Move Order

The opening tabiya (starting position of the variation) arises after:

1. e4 d5
2. exd5 Qxd5
3. d4 (the term being defined)

From here the game commonly continues:

• 3…Nf6 4.Nc3 Qa5 (classical line)
• 3…e5 4.Nf3 exd4 5.Qxd4 (Icelandic Gambit if Black first plays 3…Nf6 and later 4…e5)
• 3…c6 4.Nf3 Nf6 (solid, Caro-Kann–style structure)
• 3…Qe4+ 4.Be3 (rare sideline that tries to keep the queen active)

Strategic Themes

• Tempo and Development. White’s 3.d4 and subsequent Nc3 come with tempo against the queen, allowing rapid piece development.
• Central Majority. White often retains a healthy pawn duo on e- and d-files, while Black must decide where to relocate the queen (a5, d6, d8, or h5).
• King Safety. Black’s early queen excursion delays kingside development; accurately timing …Nf6, …e6 or …g6 is critical.
• Pawn Structure. If Black later plays …c6 and …e6, the game can resemble a Caro-Kann; if Black goes for …e5, play turns sharper and gambit-like.

Historical Context

The Scandinavian is one of the oldest recorded openings—Gioachino Greco analysed it in the 17th century. The specific 3.d4 line became mainstream in the 20th century when players sought more active ways to punish the early queen move. Grandmasters such as Bent Larsen, Curt Hansen, and later Magnus Carlsen have employed the Scandinavian (often with 3…Qa5 or 3…Qd6) at the highest level.

Illustrative Example

Below is a miniature that shows White’s developmental edge after 3.d4:

White’s pieces flood the centre while Black’s queen bounces around. After 16.Nd6+ Black’s king is stuck in the centre with serious material and positional problems.

Plans for Each Side

• White
  1. Hit the queen with Nc3, sometimes Bc4 or c4.
  2. Castle kingside quickly; use rooks on d1 and e1.
  3. If Black plays …c6 and …e6, aim for Ne5, f4, f5 pawn storms.
  4. Exploit dark-square weaknesses around Black’s queen if it sits on a5 (ideas with b4 or Bd2).
• Black
  1. Keep the queen safe—common squares: a5, d6, or back to d8.
  2. Challenge the centre with …c5 or the gambit line …e5.
  3. Finish development: …Nf6, …e6/…g6, …Bg7/Bb4.
  4. Trade queens early if under pressure; endgames are usually sound for Black.

Notable Games

• Carlsen – Anand, World Rapid 2015: Carlsen used 3…Qa5 and won a sharp middlegame, illustrating Black’s counterplay.
• Karjakin – Caruana, Wijk aan Zee 2014: White tried the aggressive 3.d4 line, and Caruana defended accurately, showing the resilience of Black’s setup.

Interesting Facts & Anecdotes

• The line attracted the nickname “Scandinavian boomerang” in club circles because the queen often swings out to a5 and later returns to d8.
• The only world champion to play the Scandinavian in a classical World Championship match is Magnus Carlsen (Game 7 vs. Karjakin, 2016; he chose the 3…Qa5 system).
• IM John Bartholomew popularized the Scandinavian (especially 3…Qd6) on YouTube, coining the catchphrase “Scandi living on the edge.”

Practical Evaluation

Modern engines give White a small plus (≈ +0.30) after 3.d4, reflecting the lead in development, but Black’s position is solid and offers a variety of setups. At club level it remains a practical, surprise weapon for both sides.