FENr1bqk1nr/pppp1ppp/2n5/4p3/2B1P3/2b2N2/PPPP1PPP/R1BQK2R w KQkq -
Three Knights Opening: what should White play?
Best move
dxc3+0.21
You correctly identified that the c3 was hanging and needed to be captured immediately. By choosing dxc3, you open up lines for your d1 and prepare for rapid development while…
- Games played
- 618K
- To move
- White
- Evaluation
- +0.21
- Depth
- 25
Game counts: Lichess opening book. Move ranking and evaluation: Stockfish. How this page is built
Why dxc3 is the best move
dxc3! — Excellent Choice!
✅ One of 2 top moves — you found a winning strategy!
Why this move is excellent:
You correctly identified that the c3 was hanging and needed to be captured immediately. By choosing dxc3, you open up lines for your d1 and prepare for rapid development while maintaining a solid central presence.
Multiple Valid Strategies
In this position, you had two ways to recapture the piece, both of which are objectively excellent but lead to different types of games.
| Move | Eval | Style / Strategic Idea |
|---|---|---|
| dxc3 | +0.21 | Positional & Fluid: Opens the d-file for the Queen and avoids doubling pawns on the b-file. |
| bxc3 | +0.09 | Solid & Central: Strengthens your control over the d4 square and prepares a massive pawn center. |
Different paths, same destination:
The choice between these two is purely stylistic. dxc3 is the more popular choice (64% of humans) because it keeps the pawn structure cleaner and allows the c4 to be supported by the Queen if needed. bxc3 is for players who love a "big center" and don't mind the slightly awkward queenside pawns.
Your Continuation
After dxc3:
Nf6 Qe2 d6 Bd3
What Made This Move Good
You correctly saw: That the tension on c3 had to be resolved. While many beginners might panic and try to defend with a4 or O-O, both of those lose significant material. You stayed calm and took the free piece!
📚 Takeaway: In positions with multiple good recaptures, trust your style—whether you prefer open lines or a strong center, both paths lead to an equal and playable game here!
What else gets played here
Move choices from 618K games in the opening book, with the engine's evaluation of each.
| Move | Evaluation | Played | Games | White score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| dxc3Engine pick | +0.21 | 388K | 53% | |
| bxc3 | +0.09 | 228K | 52% | |
| O-O | -3.25 | 2.1K | 41% | |
| a4 | -2.96 | 0 | — | |
| h4 | -3.76 | 0 | — |
More positions in the Three Knights Opening
All Three Knights Opening positions →Frequently asked questions
What is the best move for White in the Three Knights Opening?
dxc3 (+0.21). You correctly identified that the c3 was hanging and needed to be captured immediately. By choosing dxc3, you open up lines for your d1 and prepare for rapid development while…
Why is dxc3 the best move here?
You correctly identified that the c3 was hanging and needed to be captured immediately. By choosing dxc3, you open up lines for your d1 and prepare for rapid development while maintaining a solid central presence.
How often does this position occur?
This position has been reached 618K times in the opening book.