Four Knights Game: Naroditsky Variation
The Naroditsky Variation is a tricky sideline of the Four Knights Game, often played by the late GM Daniel Naroditsky. Black should be able to fully equalize with accurate play, but Naroditsky demonstrated that it can score well for White, particularly if the opponent isn't well prepared.
Starting Position
The Naroditsky Variation starts with the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Nc3 Nf6 4.Nd5. White sacrifices the e4-pawn, but plants a knight on a strong center square and unblocks the c-pawn, allowing it to advance.
White's idea is to sacrifice the e4-pawn, while preparing to take over the center with c2-c3 and d2-d4.
Main Ideas Of The Naroditsky Variation
There are many reasonable responses for Black on the fourth move including 4...Nxe4, 4...Be7, 4....d6, 4...Bd6, and 4...Bc5 but the key distinction is whether or not Black captures the pawn on e4 on move four or five.
White's two primary plans are either active play if Black accepts the sacrifice of the e4-pawn, or quieter play building a big pawn center if Black doesn't capture on e4.
Pawn Sacrifice
When Black captures on e4, White must play actively to prove full compensation. The highest level game played to date in the Naroditsky Variation saw precise play from both sides, leading to a complicated game and a perpetual check.
Big White Center
When Black ignores the pawn on e4, White can often gain a small advantage by advancing with c2-c3 and then later d2-d3 or d2-d4. Often, White will play the odd-looking Bf1-d3, even if it blocks the d2-pawn. The bishop will eventually retreat to c2, allowing the d-pawn to advance.
Model Game
In the following game, White built a big center and a strong attack in the opening. Black defended well and created enough counterplay, but made a tactical mistake under time pressure.