Sicilian Defense: Modern Variations, Ginsberg Gambit (B54)

The Modern Variations, Ginsberg Gambit is a variation of the Sicilian Defense, catalogued as ECO B54. The line runs 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Bc4, reaching the position shown below after 9 half-moves.

White holds the centre with pawns on e4. Development is level at two minor pieces each. It is Black to move after five moves.

On the Sicilian Defense generally: The most popular and aggressive response to 1.e4. Black fights for the center asymmetrically, leading to rich tactical play.

You can play through this variation move by move in your browser — Learn mode walks the line with an explanation at each step, and Drill mode replays it from memory so you find out whether you actually know it. No account is required.

Sicilian Defense: Modern Variations, Ginsberg Gambit — position after Bc4 a8b7c6d5e4f3g2h1
Position after 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Bc4

Move order

#WhiteBlack
1e4c5
2Nf3d6
3d4cxd4
4Nxd4Nf6
5Bc4

ECO: B54

Stockfish: -0.06 at depth 18

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Frequently asked questions

What are the moves of the Modern Variations, Ginsberg Gambit?

The Modern Variations, Ginsberg Gambit goes 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Bc4. It is a variation of the Sicilian Defense and is catalogued as ECO B54.

What is the ECO code for the Modern Variations, Ginsberg Gambit?

The Modern Variations, Ginsberg Gambit is ECO B54. ECO codes group openings by their move order, so nearby codes cover closely related lines of the Sicilian Defense.

Is the Modern Variations, Ginsberg Gambit good for White?

Stockfish evaluates the position after 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Bc4 at -0.06 at depth 18, which is balanced. Engine evaluation is only a starting point — at club level the practical value of a line is mostly about whether you know its plans better than your opponent does.

What kind of position does the Modern Variations, Ginsberg Gambit lead to?

White holds the centre with pawns on e4. Development is level at two minor pieces each. It is Black to move.