ECO code: A53
Old Indian Defense
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 d6
The Old Indian Defense is a solid and flexible opening choice for Black, characterized by the early ...d6 move supporting the knight on f6 and preparing a strong defensive setup. Unlike the King's Indian Defense, Black delays the development of the dark-squared bishop and aims for a compact structure.
From Black's perspective, this opening is primarily defensive, focusing on a resilient position rather than immediate counterattack. White, on the other hand, typically maintains central control and space, aiming to build an advantage in the center.
Regarding the center, White usually exerts pressure and tries to occupy it with pawns on d4 and c4, while Black adopts a more restrained approach, often waiting to challenge the center later with moves like ...e5 or ...c5.
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 Old Indian Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 32 - Move #5 black