Englund Gambit – Surprise Chess Opening for Black
The Englund Gambit (1.d4 e5?!) is a provocative and trappy response to Queen's Pawn openings. While objectively risky, it sets immediate practical problems for White and often leads to quick wins against unprepared opponents. Learn the tricks and traps that make the Englund a dangerous weapon in blitz.
1.d4 e5 – The Charlick Gambit and Its Variations
The Englund Gambit begins with 1.d4 e5 and is also known as the Charlick Gambit. Black seeks to avoid traditional closed queen's pawn structures and create immediate tactical complications. While considered dubious by modern theory, it remains a popular surprise weapon at club level and in fast games.
🎥 The Englund Gambit is full of traps. Watch Sample Lessons related to the Chess Traps Course
Explore real examples from the course in this video playlist. Watch how famous chess traps unfold, learn how to set them up, and avoid common mistakes in practical games.
History and Naming
The gambit was introduced by Henry Charlick in the 1890s with the 2...d6 line. Fritz Englund later sponsored tournaments promoting this opening, leading to its current name. Kārlis Bētiņš also contributed to its theory by introducing the main line with 2...Nc6 and 3...Qe7.
Main Variations
Blackburne–Hartlaub Gambit (2...d6)
Black immediately challenges the pawn with 2...d6, aiming for quick development. White typically retains a pawn advantage but must navigate tactical threats carefully.
Soller Gambit (2...Nc6 3.Nf3 f6)
This gambit tries to undermine White's center rapidly. It can lead to sharp play but gives White the opportunity to gain a strong advantage with precise moves.
Felbecker Gambit (3...Bc5)
Named after its key bishop development, this line continues pressure on White’s center but often requires accurate play to avoid losing material.
Zilbermints Gambit (3...Nge7)
Here Black prepares to recover the pawn with ...Ng6, aiming for active piece play. This variation can lead to dynamic but risky positions.
Typical Ideas and Plans
Black gambits the e5 pawn to gain rapid development and open lines for the bishops and knights. The idea is to seize the initiative before White consolidates the extra pawn. Black often targets White’s center and aims for early piece activity and tactical opportunities.
Challenges for Black
Despite the aggressive intentions, Black faces difficulties if White plays accurately. The gambit often leaves Black behind in development and vulnerable to positional pressure. As such, the Englund Gambit is considered a high-risk opening that relies on surprise and practical chances rather than soundness.
Alternatives for White
White can decline the gambit with moves like 2.d5 or 2.Nf3, aiming to maintain a positional advantage. White’s best responses usually involve rapid development and consolidation to exploit Black's weaknesses.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Englund Gambit
Is the Englund Gambit suitable for serious tournament play?
Due to its dubious soundness, it is rarely recommended for serious or professional play, but it can be used as a surprise weapon in faster time controls.
What is the difference between the Englund Gambit and the Budapest Gambit?
The Englund starts with 1.d4 e5, while the Budapest Gambit begins with 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e5. The Budapest is generally considered more sound.
Who are some players known for using the Englund Gambit?
While rare among top players, the gambit has been tried by Paul Keres and frequently used by Henri Grob in his correspondence games.
What is the Stockholm Variation?
A main line where White tries to hold the pawn with 4.Qd5, challenging Black's compensation and development.
How can White best counter the Englund Gambit?
White should develop quickly, keep the extra pawn, and avoid falling into traps or awkward queen placements.