user23699: I'm having trouble understanding the point of White's play in this variation (specifically 5.dxe5):
[FEN ""]
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Be7 4. d4 d6 5. dxe5!? dxe5 6. Qxd8+ Bxd8

Why does White want to trade queens early, instead of keeping the tension with a move like 5.h3? Also, why does this position have a comparatively high winrate for White (48% / 43% / 9% wins / draws / losses) according to the Lichess Masters db?

user18809: White's position looks pretty active. It's basically a zero-risk opening that offers many chances to play for a win. For example, White can continue with a quick Nc3 (speculating with Nd5 ideas that will give the d8 bishop a hard time to join the game again), Be3 and 0-0-0

user14202: White has a development advantage with an extra piece in the field and therefore should be able to capture some type of initiative despite the symmetrical pawn structure.
I suggest playing through some top games in the line to see how things play out.

23699: <p>I'm having trouble understanding the point of White's play in this variation (specifically <code>5.dxe5</code>):</p>
<pre><code>[FEN &quot;&quot;]
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Be7 4. d4 d6 5. dxe5!? dxe5 6. Qxd8+ Bxd8
</code></pre>
<p>Why does White want to trade queens early, instead of keeping the tension with a move like <code>5.h3</code>? Also, why does this position have a comparatively high winrate for White (48% / 43% / 9% wins / draws / losses) according to the Lichess Masters db?</p>
 18809: <p>White's position looks pretty active. It's basically a zero-risk opening that offers many chances to play for a win. For example, White can continue with a quick Nc3 (speculating with Nd5 ideas that will give the d8 bishop a hard time to join the game again), Be3 and 0-0-0</p>
 14202: <p>White has a development advantage with an extra piece in the field and therefore should be able to capture some type of initiative despite the symmetrical pawn structure.</p>
<p>I suggest playing through some top games in the line to see how things play out.</p>
