ECO code: A41
Neo-Old Indian: Modern
Moves: 1. d4 d6 2. c4 g6
This opening is a flexible and somewhat hypermodern defense used by Black. Instead of immediately challenging White's center with pawns, Black opts for a fianchetto of the dark-squared bishop with ...g6, aiming to put pressure on White's central pawns from a distance.
Characteristics: The Neo-Old Indian setup is characterized by a solid but dynamic pawn structure with ...d6 and ...g6. Black prepares to develop the bishop to g7, controlling the long diagonal and exerting influence over the center without direct pawn confrontation.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black's perspective, this is a flexible and somewhat defensive approach early on, focusing on solid development and counterattacking chances later. White, on the other hand, usually plays more aggressively, occupying the center with pawns and aiming to capitalize on the space advantage.
Center Control: White takes the lead in controlling the center immediately with pawns on d4 and c4. Black challenges the center indirectly through piece pressure rather than direct pawn engagement, adhering to hypermodern principles.
This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Neo-Old Indian: Modern, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #6 white