Chess Openings: Center Game vs. Scotch Game?

Question

I am building my opening book and I am stuck at a crossroad as to which opening to use. Each one has its pros and cons and I can't decide which one would be better for me to use.

Center Game

Pros: Less theory, good development, has a similar style to the Scandinavian which I already play

Cons: The Queen is commonly seen as loose in this opening but being used to the Scandinavian as long you are careful it shouldn't be too big a problem.

Scotch Game

Pros: Solid development and positions, probably played more often at high levels

Cons: Large amounts of theory and several different variations to learn, black can more easily deviate from the Scotch Game then Center Game (Ex. after 2.Nf3 black can deviate from the Scotch with moves like d5, f5, d6, Nf6, etc.)

Any suggestions on which opening to play?

Answer 1

Yep, also to add

The Center Game is widely regarded as an unsafe openings. Larry Christiansen (American GM) himself recommends that you use center game for quick games like blitz and bullet, cos they have lots of hidden attacks and tricks that could cause your opponent to become shocked.

However, in truth, center game is rather weak because of the, as you mentioned, queen that is rather vulnerable.

I would personally also recommend the Scotch, cause your worry about them deviating is true but, as you know, nothing is this world's for sure. So just try it out. Furthermore, having played chess for a few years, my most natural answer to 2 Nf3 would be 2 ... Nf6 too! And most opponents anyway also give the same response.

So my final advice is that: just go for it, learning the scandinavian would be excellent preparation and analysis for you.

P.S. I would recommend the book on Scotch opening by Gary Lane.

Answer 2

I would recommend the Scotch Game - it's a serious attempt to gain advantage, even being used by Kasparov against top opponents.

The reason that the Scandinavian is OK for Black is that, despite the dangerous-looking opening move, Black can achieve a solid position with realistic prospects of full equality. That's fine for Black, but you need more as White. The center game is not a good use of White's initiative.