ECO code: A41
Neo-Old Indian: Modern, 3.Nf3 Bg7 4.e4
This opening arises after the moves 1. d4 d6 2. c4 g6 3. Nf3 Bg7 4. e4. It is a flexible setup blending ideas from the Old Indian Defense and the Modern Defense. Black fianchettoes the bishop to g7, preparing a solid but hypermodern stance, while White aims to establish a strong pawn center with e4 and c4.
Characteristic: The key feature of this line is White’s immediate claim to the center with 4.e4, supported by the knight on f3 and the c4 pawn. Black adopts a restrained, flexible setup, delaying central occupation in favor of piece development and counterattacking chances from a distance.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this is an attacking and space-gaining approach, focusing on central control and potential kingside activity. Black’s setup is more defensive initially, aiming to counterattack later once White’s center is challenged.
Center Control: Yes, this opening features a direct contest for the center. White firmly occupies the center with pawns on d4, c4, and e4, while Black seeks to undermine this center from the flanks using the fianchettoed bishop and flexible pawn breaks.
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, 3.Nf3 Bg7 4.e4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 6 - Move #7 black