The Scandinavian Defense: What It Is and How to Use It in Chess

Chess openings: What is the Scandinavian Defense?

Ready to add a new opening to your arsenal? Check out the Scandinavian Defense!

Learning openings requires understanding chess notation, the system for naming pieces and moves. Get a refresher on chess notation here!

The Scandinavian Defense is the oldest recorded chess opening, first described in a Valencian poem from the late 15th century.
It was popularized by two Swedish brothers in the late 1800s and continues to be a popular choice among amateurs, though it’s less common at the grandmaster level.
It creates an open, asymmetrical game by challenging White’s center immediately, giving it the secondary moniker of the Center-Counter Game.
The Scandinavian Defense breaks the traditional opening principle of not bringing the queen out early, but works nevertheless!

Here are the moves for the Scandinavian Defense:

For an exciting, open game that avoids draws and can throw White off guard and out of opening preparation, try the Scandinavian Defense!

If you’re looking for more openings, check out our guide featuring over 30 options for every skill level!