Classical Variation, Albin Gambit

The Albin Gambit arises when White castles on move four and only then plays 5. c3, after Black has already developed with 4...Nf6. Compared with the usual Classical Variation move order, White has not prepared to defend e4 with d3 or Re1, and with c3 occupied the queen's knight cannot guard it either. The pawn is therefore offered. White's compensation is a lead in development and the threat of d2-d4, which would gain time against the c5-bishop.

Most players decline. The most common reply is 5...O-O, and 5...d6 is the next most popular. Both bolster the center and transpose to quieter Giuoco Piano play. Only about one game in seven continues 5...Nxe4. The engine nevertheless ranks the capture first, ahead of 5...d6 and 5...Bb6, and in online games Black scores better after taking the pawn than after either alternative. The engine regards the position as roughly level, or slightly favorable for Black. White's overall results are good, largely because so many opponents turn down the material.