C40
King's Knight Opening
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3
In the King's Knight Opening, aim to understand the plans and pawn structures, not just memorize the first moves.
The King's Knight Opening is a chess opening classified under ECO code C40. It is reached after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3: 3 moves in, with Black to play.
Learn its typical plans and pawn structures rather than memorizing moves — that’s what holds up over the board.
2 named variations branch from this position; the list at the end of the page goes one move deeper into each.
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Analyze my games free →Variations of the King's Knight Opening
- Konstantinopolsky1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. g3
- Normal Variation1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6
Related openings
Elephant GambitElephant Gambit: Maroczy GambitElephant Gambit: Paulsen CountergambitElephant Gambit: Wasp VariationGunderam DefenseKing's Pawn Game: Busch-Gass GambitKing's Pawn Game: Busch-Gass Gambit, Chiodini GambitKing's Pawn Game: Damiano DefenseKing's Pawn Game: Damiano Defense, Damiano GambitKing's Pawn Game: Damiano Defense, Damiano Gambit, Chigorin Gambit