Main Line: ...d6
After White takes on e5, Black's most thematic move is ...d6, attacking the knight and trying to open lines. White often retreats to c4 and focuses on development and central stability.
ECO Code
C40
Difficulty
Advanced
Style
Forcing/Concrete
Key Theme
Chase the knight
What Happens Next
Black's Typical Break
Black often captures on e4 to open lines before White finishes development.
White's Consolidation
White aims to complete development and keep the extra pawn safe, even if that means returning one later.
Key Warning
Latvian lines can become tactical if the king stays in the center. White should castle early.
Common Pitfalls
For White: If you protect pawns instead of developing, Black's initiative can become dangerous.
For Black: If you can't generate threats after opening the center, you're simply down material with structural weaknesses.
Know the Main Plan
...d6 is the Latvian's central idea in many lines: chase the knight and open lines before White consolidates.
Back to Latvian Gambit Explore Nimzowitsch Attack