Staunton Gambit Accepted

The Staunton Gambit Accepted arises when Black captures on e4 after 1. d4 f5 2. e4. Black keeps an extra pawn but places it on an advanced square where White can attack it. The gambit is named after Howard Staunton, who introduced it in a match against Bernhard Horwitz. White's compensation is quick development and the half-open e-file, set against a kingside already loosened by ...f5. Black has to hold the pawn, or return it on good terms, while completing development.

The usual reply is 3. Nc3, which attacks e4 and prepares Bg5 against a knight on f6. The line 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Bg5 has its own ECO code, A83. The second most common move, 3. f3, challenges the pawn at once and opens the f-file if Black captures. 3. Nd2 is the American Attack. The check 3. Qh5+ is uncommon and scores poorly for White. The engine rates the position as roughly balanced. This matches the view of Christiansen and Silman that the gambit gives White equality at best, though it remains a practical choice in blitz.