Generally a lot of gambits that historically did well have had antidotes worked out so fell out of favour. For example lines like the Vienna Gambit and Evans Gambit that were popular in the romantic era now have lines that at least draw for black. So anyone that has done prep for these lines that's expected for a 1...e5 player has an easy draw that isn't what white players want.
These lines are effective under 2000 as many players won't know lines well and will walk into opening traps but at GM and super GM level these lines lack venom.
There's also problem that now opening preparation and databases is a thing. So if I'm due to play an opponent who normally/often plays a certain gambit I can look up theory of the line so the surprise value is also lost.
If you like unusual opening lines then games of Michael Basman and Tony Miles will certainly be a source of inspiration although generally the main lines are the main lines for a reason.
It should also be noted that just cause a line is called Gambit or not doesn't mean players don't play it energetically. Top GMs will often sacrifice material for the initiative. So the important thing isn't whether you play a Gambit or not but instead whether you understand the compensation you get for the material and are able to play these positions correctly.
Generally a lot of gambits that historically did well have had antidotes worked out so fell out of favour. For example lines like the Vienna Gambit and Evans Gambit that were popular in the romantic era now have lines that at least draw for black. So anyone that has done prep for these lines that's expected for a 1...e5 player has an easy draw that isn't what white players want.
These lines are effective under 2000 as many players won't know lines well and will walk into opening traps but at GM and super GM level these lines lack venom.
There's also problem that now opening preparation and databases is a thing. So if I'm due to play an opponent who normally/often plays a certain gambit I can look up theory of the line so the surprise value is also lost.
If you like unusual opening lines then games of Michael Basman and Tony Miles will certainly be a source of inspiration although generally the main lines are the main lines for a reason.
It should also be noted that just cause a line is called Gambit or not doesn't mean players don't play it energetically. Top GMs will often sacrifice material for the initiative. So the important thing isn't whether you play a Gambit or not but instead whether you understand the compensation you get for the material and are able to play these positions correctly.