It is one of the oldest and most classical of the defencive lines and has become almost as popular as the Spanish Game these days. If played logically, black will put a good fight for control of the center of the broad and develop rather quickly with Nf6, Be7 and some kingside castling. The only thing I have against playing the Declined Variation is that I have the miscegenation of always getting my Bishop at c8 blocked for half a game, which leaves me empty handed in most endgames. Other then that. It is a sound opening and I always enjoy a game where I get to see it pay off. Good game!

I enjoy playing the QG. Nice game.