What are the moves of the Modern Defense?

1.e4 g6. After these moves it is white to move.

What variations come from the Modern Defense?

Named continuations include Modern Defense: Fianchetto Gambit, Modern Defense: Norwegian Defense, Modern Defense: Bishop Attack, Modern Defense: Standard Line, Modern Defense: Three Pawns Attack. There are 40 named variations reachable from this position in total.

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Chess Openings

Modern Defense

1.e4 g6 · ECO B06

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Modern Defense is a chess opening that arises after 1.e4 g6. It is classified B06 in the ECO system, and the position after these moves has white to move. The Modern Defense fianchettoes immediately, delaying the knight development that would define it as a Pirc. This maximum flexibility lets Black choose the structure after seeing what White commits to.

This position can also be reached by 2 other move orders, including 1.e4 g6 2.d4 Bg7.

Strategic character

Extremely flexible and transpositional — the Modern can turn into a Pirc, a King's Indian, or something entirely its own. That flexibility is also its cost, since Black concedes the centre early and must handle a wide range of White setups.

Who should play it

Experienced players who understand structures well enough to navigate transpositions and who prefer avoiding mainstream theory.

Variations continuing from this position

Each of these is a named opening reached by playing on from 1.e4 g6. Open any of them to load the position on the board.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Modern Defense?: The Modern Defense is a chess opening that arises after 1.e4 g6. It is classified B06 in the ECO system. The Modern Defense fianchettoes immediately, delaying the knight development that would define it as a Pirc. This maximum flexibility lets Black choose the structure after seeing what White commits to.
What are the moves of the Modern Defense?: 1.e4 g6. After these moves it is white to move.
Is the Modern Defense good for beginners?: Experienced players who understand structures well enough to navigate transpositions and who prefer avoiding mainstream theory.
What variations come from the Modern Defense?: Named continuations include Modern Defense: Fianchetto Gambit, Modern Defense: Norwegian Defense, Modern Defense: Bishop Attack, Modern Defense: Standard Line, Modern Defense: Three Pawns Attack. There are 40 named variations reachable from this position in total.