Opening characteristics

If one has started with a specific opening, how much of the characteristics of that opening is still valid when the game suddenly veers of into a completely unexpected direction? I'll give an example:
1. e4 c5 (Sicilian)
2. e5 Nc6
3. e6 d7xe6 (the e5 and e6 moves really baffled me)
This got me thinking, since it started out as Sicilian, should one keep the main idea going?

Yes, you still have to play for checkmate. 🙂

Since this is about a game in progress, you shouldn't ask for advice on the forum. This can be discussed when the game is over, or at least in a much later phase of the game.

In fact you may use databases on openings like this:

http://www.365chess.com/opening.php

However some people like to shock their opponents by playing moves never or very seldom played before.

Originally posted by Rookaduke
If one has started with a specific opening, how much of the characteristics of that opening is still valid when the game suddenly veers of into a completely unexpected direction? I'll give an example:
1. e4 c5 (Sicilian)
2. e5 Nc6
3. e6 d7xe6 (the e5 and e6 moves really baffled me)
This got me thinking, since it started out as Sicilian, should one keep the main idea going?

But do not post your game till after it is finished else
you may get yourself into trouble.
(also it's unfair but if you did not know then no harm done. Read the Terms of Service.)

Unexpected Opening Moves in General.

Could be a new find in a particuliar position. A TN. (Theorectical Novelty).
Could be a trap.
Could be a blunder due to miscalcalation.
Could be an experiement.
Could be the opponent has a lost a game in the past to this move and is investigating it.
Could be the opponent has won a game with this opening in the past.
Could have been a mouse slip or a typo (an unintended move)
Could be the opponent has just made a random move because they
do not know what else to do.