ECO code: B06
Modern Defense: Standard Line
Moves: 1. e4 g6 2. d4 Bg7 3. Nc3
Characteristics: This line of the Modern Defense features Black fianchettoing the dark-squared bishop early with ...g6 and ...Bg7, aiming for a hypermodern approach. Instead of occupying the center with pawns immediately, Black focuses on controlling it from a distance.
Playing Style: As Black, this opening is primarily defensive and flexible, allowing Black to counterattack later. White, by playing 3. Nc3, takes an attacking stance by reinforcing control of the center and developing pieces actively.
Center Control: White occupies and attacks the center directly with pawns on e4 and d4, while Black exerts pressure on the center indirectly through the fianchettoed bishop and prepares to challenge White's center later on.
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 Modern Defense: Standard Line, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 42 - Move #5 white
You can also discover how top players used Modern Defense: Standard Line to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.