Openings, Advanced Edition - Four Knights for Black

In this new series I will be discussing a variety of openings for both white and black pieces. Today, I decided to start with the famous "Four Knights" variation. I analyzed it mostly from black's perspective. I am saying mostly because if we are to examine this line from white's point of view there will be a lot more relevant information to go through. However, in this case the direction black should take is almost fully linear - which is a good thing if the goal is to eliminate a sizable portion of theory and force white into already prepared variations!

I remember analyzing this line years ago for white. I even played it once and ended up in a draw...narrowly missing the victory. Shortly after, the variation won itself a bit of popularity and people started analyzing it more - which eventually proved that it is quite good for black. That was about the time I stopped carrying about this line. Only recently I decided to analyze of bit of 1.e4 positions, so I had no choice but to get technical with this line.

Take into consideration that no analysis is ever complete. There are always new lines to be found! Furthermore, you will notice that I have analyzed more than one line for black. That is because it is always a good idea to enter a position having more options. Otherwise, the opponent can easily prepare against a line you have already played multiple times. Such an outcome would of course cause problems - especially if you are playing against a weaker opponent and you want to have the upper hand!

Here is the conclusion of my analysis: