Single Gambit
White chooses a more restrained version of the Danish: allow Black to take on c3, then recapture with the knight. You still get development and open lines, but with less material risk than the full two-pawn gambit.
ECO Code
C21
Difficulty
Intermediate
Style
Active/Controlled
Key Theme
One pawn for time
Typical Plans
White
Develop naturally and use the extra activity to pressure f7 and the center.
Black
Hold the extra pawn if safe, but be ready to return it to finish development and avoid tactics.
Why It's Practical
You still learn gambit principles, but the position is easier to handle if the attack doesn't land.
Common Pitfalls
For White: Don't assume the attack plays itself. You still need accurate development and purposeful moves.
For Black: If you try to keep the pawn without development, the bishop on c4 can create quick threats.
A Practical Danish Alternative
The Single Gambit keeps Danish themes while reducing the risk of being down two pawns with no attack.
Back to Danish Gambit Explore Accepted Main Line