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 puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Neo-Old Indian: Modern, 3.e4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #7 black