Norwalde Variation

The Norwalde Variation answers the King's Gambit with 2...Qf6, a queen move that defends e5 and puts pressure on the f4-pawn. The protection is redundant, since fxe5 is not yet a real threat, and the queen occupies the square the king's knight normally uses. The opening counts as playable but is regarded as a missed opportunity for Black. The engine gives White a clear advantage, and White scores well in practice.

The usual reply is 3. Nf3, which develops and covers h4. The alternatives are 3. fxe5 and the space-gaining 3. f5, and the latter has scored poorly for White. White can also leave the f-pawn hanging with 3. Nc3, inviting 3...Qxf4. Two named lines follow that capture. The Schubert Variation, 4. d4, uses the tempo gained against the queen to occupy the center. The Bücker Gambit continues 4. Nf3 Bb4 5. Bc4, where White develops quickly and aims the bishop at f7 while Black's queen is still far forward.