ECO code: A41
Neo-Old Indian: Modern, 3.e4
The Neo-Old Indian arises after the moves 1. d4 d6 2. c4 g6 3. e4. This opening is a hybrid between Old Indian and Modern Defense ideas, where Black adopts a flexible setup with ...d6 and ...g6, preparing to fianchetto the bishop while White establishes a strong pawn center.
Characteristic of 3.e4: White's third move, e4, is a direct claim of the central squares, aiming to secure a broad pawn center early in the game. This move sets the stage for a classical center confrontation, challenging Black's hypermodern setup.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this is an attacking and assertive stance, grabbing space and central control. Black typically adopts a more defensive or flexible posture, planning to undermine White's center later with moves like ...c5 or ...e5.
Center Control: Yes, this opening strongly focuses on the center. White's move e4 complements d4 and c4 to build a dominant pawn presence, while Black counters with a hypermodern approach, allowing White the center initially but aiming to challenge it strategically.
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 a selection of puzzles from real positions in games that used the Neo-Old Indian: Modern, 3.e4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #7 black