Chess Openings - The Scotch Game
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1. e4 e5
2. Nf3 Nc6
3. d4
The first correspondence chess match between two clubs was held in 1824. The heavily favoured London Chess Club faced off against the Edinburgh Chess Club. The fifth and deciding game had Edinburgh with the white pieces. They won the game, and the opening - 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 - was henceforth known as The Scotch Game. Along with the Italian and Spanish Games, the Scotch Game is a common and strong continuation out of the King's Knight Opening.
The Scotch is a very logical idea in that White directly attacks the centre with 3. d4. The subsequent exchange of pawns leaves white in apparent control of the centre. Black's best chance to equalize the position is to prepare for an eventual central thrust of his own: d5.
How Common is the Scotch Game?
Common at all Levels
The glory days for the Scotch - the 19th century - have come and gone. That being said, the opening still enjoys some popularity. White continues with the Scotch out of the King's Knight Opening in about 10% of games.