Chess Opening · B06
Modern Defense
For sub-1000 ELO players
The Modern Defense (ECO B06) starts with 1...g6, preparing to fianchetto the bishop on g7 while letting White build a full center. Stockfish 17 at depth 25 confirms the Austrian Attack Variation with e4, d4, Nc3, and f4 as White's most punishing setup. The most common mistake at sub-1000 ELO is playing slowly against the Modern. Build a massive center with e4, d4, and f4 and you will steamroll most opponents who play g6 without a clear plan.
The Best Response
Moves to Play
White · Black alternating
1. e4 g62. d4 Bg73. Nc3 d64. f4 Nf6Black plays g6 and Bg7 to put the bishop on the long diagonal. White responds with three center pawns on e4, d4, and f4. This takes away all of Black's space and prepares a kingside attack.
Who Stands Better
(slight advantage for White)
Copy these moves:
1. e4 g6 2. d4 Bg7 3. Nc3 d6 4. f43 Mistakes Sub-1000 Players Make
These are the patterns we see in games below 1000 ELO. Fix these and you'll stop losing to this opening.
Not Building the Full Center
Beginners play e4 and d4 but skip f4. Without f4, Black's bishop on g7 puts constant pressure on d4 and White's center is shaky instead of dominant.
f5Trading the Bishop for the Knight on c6
Some beginners develop Bb5 and trade it for a knight. This removes a strong bishop and gives Black's bishop on g7 even more power on the long diagonal with no opposition.
Be3Playing Too Slowly
The Modern Defense looks quiet, so White plays slow moves. But Black is waiting to strike with c5 or e5 when White is not ready. You need to build the center fast before Black breaks through.
Bb5+Why This Opening Trips You Up
The Core Problem
The Modern looks like Black is doing nothing, so White relaxes and plays without urgency. But the bishop on g7 is a sniper aimed at the center, and the delayed d6 and e5 breaks can tear the position open if White is not prepared.
Before Your Next Game
Against g6 setups, play e4, d4, Nc3, and f4. Do not slow down. The big center is your best weapon and it works every time at this level.
What to Study
Study the Austrian Attack setup. The same e4, d4, f4 structure works against both the Pirc Defense and the Modern Defense.
Engine-verified by Stockfish 17 at depth 25. Reviewed by Jon Stenstrom, Chess.com 759 Daily, Founder, 1000elo.com.
Play this opening? See how it's actually working for you.
Enter your Chess.com username and get a free analysis of your last 10 games, including which opening patterns are costing you points.
Analyze My Games Free →