Alekhine: Scandinavian, Exchange, 4.Nxd5: what should Black play?

In the Alekhine Defense (Scandinavian, Exchange, 4.Nxd5), Black must address the immediate attack on the d5 by the white c4. The engine's premier recommendation is the active check Qe4+, which generates an evaluation of -0.94 and disrupts White's standard development. Across a database of 358,299 games, retreating the queen to safety or stepping into active play are the primary strategic choices for Black.

Strategic value of the queen check

The central thrust Qe4+ forces White to make an immediate defensive decision regarding their king. An illustrative engine continuation runs Qe4+ Qe2 Qg6 Nf3 Bg4 h3, where Black accepts an exchange of tempo or relocates the queen to the g6 outpost. By challenging White immediately along the open e-file, Black avoids passive play while preparing development for the minor pieces.

Common retreat squares

Black frequently considers standard queen retreats to keep the board stable. The flank retreat Qa5 scores an evaluation of -0.49 and frequently leads into Qa5 Nf3 Nc6 Be2 e5 O-O, setting up solid counterplay against White's center. Alternatively, Qd6 offers an evaluation of -0.39, as seen in the sequence Qd6 Nf3 e5 d4 exd4 Qxd4, keeping the queen centrally placed to monitor key central squares.

Passive retreats and alternative placements

Full retreats yield slightly quieter positions with modest engine assessments. The conservative Qd8 evaluates at -0.22, where the illustrative continuation Qd8 Ne2 e5 d4 Be7 Be3 allows Black to regroup without further tactical complications. Similarly, Qd7 yields an evaluation of -0.12, followed in the engine notes by Qd7 Nf3 c5 d4 cxd4 Nxd4, though blocking the light-squared bishop generally provides White with easier central expansion.