Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...e5/2. Nf3/2...Bc5/3. Nxe5/3...Bxf2

In the sequence 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Bc5 3.Nxe5, the move 3...Bxf2+ is a counter-attack by black that targets the white king¹.

If white responds with 4.Kxf2, the king is forced to capture the bishop on f2, leaving the king exposed and potentially vulnerable to further attacks¹. However, white can handle this situation. For example, white can play g3 to defend against a potential Qh4+ check by black, if black decides to play Nf6 instead of an instant Qh4+¹.

If white decides to play 4.Ke2 instead of 4.Kxf2, it's considered a worse move because it prevents castling to protect the king, endangers the king, ignores development and the center, and blocks the queen and bishop, which are the two pieces that are free after 1. e4.

Remember, chess is a game of strategy and every move has potential consequences. It's up to the player's judgment to decide whether a move aligns with their overall game strategy.

1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Bc5 3.Nxe5 Bxf2+