Scandinavian Defense: Modern Variation: what should Black play?

In the Scandinavian Defense: Modern Variation, reached in 785,304 recorded games, Black's most accurate theoretical choice is Bf5. By developing the light-squared bishop outside the pawn chain before committing the central structure, Black effectively neutralizes White's pressure on the d5 knight while holding an engine evaluation of +0.19. The position offers several sound setups, but developing the minor pieces actively remains Black's primary strategic goal.

Active Bishop Development with Bf5 and Bg4

The leading engine recommendation, Bf5, directly controls the key central diagonal while leaving the e7 square available for the dark-squared bishop. A nearly identical idea is Bg4 (evaluated at +0.20), which places immediate pressure on the f3 knight. Both moves ensure that the light-squared bishop does not get trapped behind a subsequent pawn push to e6. In the illustrative continuation Bf5 d4 e6 O-O Be7 Bd3, Black completes a harmonious, solid setup, keeping White's opening advantage to a minimal margin.

Structural Counterplay: Nb6, c5, and e6

Black also possesses alternative plans that prioritize central tension or knight safety. The retreat Nb6 (+0.24) hits the c4 bishop directly, prompting the variation Nb6 Be2 c5 d4 Nc6 dxc5 where Black initiates early flank counterplay. Alternatively, the immediate strike c5 (+0.24) challenges White's central footprint right away, typically leading into lines like c5 d4 e6 O-O cxd4 Qxd4. Finally, the modest e6 (+0.26) preserves flexibility, often transposing into similar central structures after e6 d4 c5 O-O cxd4 Qxd4. Across all major choices, Black retains solid counter-chances within a narrow evaluation band.