Avoiding the Ruy after 1.e4 e5

Hey all,

I have tried playing the Ruy for a long time, but slamming down 10+ moves of theory with a dozen viable variations to keep track of is challenging.  I spent my time playing the Danish, the Goering, and have settled on the Scotch Gambit with mixed feelings.  After 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 exd4 4. Bc4, I enjoy the games after 4 ... Bb5+, ... Be7, ... Nf6, ... h6, etc. but find the dryness of 4 ... Bc5, the most commonly seen move at the club level, annoying.

What are some openings you find dynamic and interesting as White after 1. e4 is met by 1 ... e5?

3.Bc4 (intending 3...Bc5 4.b4, and 3...Nf6 4.Ng5 or 4.d4 depending on taste)

3.d4 (the Scotch)

3.Nc3 Nf6 4.d4 exd4 5.Nd5!?

2.f4

You could try the normal Scotch game, without the gambit. It's completely solid, and can lead to many fun games. A great way to avoid hundreds of reams of theory, also.

This message is endorsed by Kasparov.

I've been playing the Vienna for years, still a favourite. 2 Nc3!

Tartakower - The strength of this move, paradoxically, is that it threatens nothing

Why not try the Giuoco Pianissimo? With White playing 3. Bc4, d3, c3, Bb3, Ndb2, Re1, h3, etc....and eventually playing d4,  it's very similar structurally to the Ruy Lopez, but there is quite a bit less to know. Of course, you won't be pushing for as big of an edge with this line, but it still has some bite.

i like playing italian game or the ponziani

Kings Gambit!!!

I play: 1.e4 e5 2.d4 exd4 3.Qxd4 Nc6 4.Qe3 ... It may not be sound at top-level, but I have had great fun with it, and more wins than losses..

Bishop Opening 2.Bc4