Reversed French

Instead of capturing on e5 or advancing past it, White answers 1...e5 with 2. e3, simply defending the d4-pawn. The pawns on d4 and e3 form a French-style chain, which explains the name. Unlike 2. d5, this move does not close the center. It keeps the d-pawn where it is and lets Black decide the structure. The cost is that the c1-bishop is shut in behind e3. Like other ways of declining, it does not test Black's first move, but it avoids the forcing gambit lines that follow 2. dxe5.

Black usually resolves the tension at once with 2...exd4, played in more than half of all games and also the engine's first choice. After 3. exd4 d5 the pawns are symmetrical, as in an Exchange French with colors reversed, and White is the side to move. The open e-file and the symmetrical structure make for a calm game. Neither side has an obvious target. Black does not have to follow up with ...d5 and can instead develop pieces first, leaving the d4-pawn isolated from its neighbors on the e-file.

The second most common reply is 2...e4, which keeps the pawn and gains space. It stops a White knight from using f3 and builds a pawn wedge that White can later challenge with c4 or f3. The third main option, 2...Nc6, develops while adding pressure to d4 and keeps both ...exd4 and ...e4 available. The engine also likes 2...d6, which supports e5 and frees the c8-bishop.

The engine rates the position as roughly balanced. Online results are close to even, with White slightly ahead, and draws are uncommon. The line is popular, especially in faster online games, where players use it as a low-theory reply to the Englund Gambit. Its main appeal is practical rather than theoretical.