The Modern Defense: What It Is and How to Use It in Chess
June 30, 2026
Chess openings: What is the Modern Defense?
Looking for a new opening to learn? Discover the Modern Defense!
Learning openings requires understanding chess notation, the system for naming pieces and moves. Get a refresher on chess notation here!
Modern Defense: 3 quick facts
- The Modern Defense, sometimes known as the Robatsch Defense, is a flexible, solid hypermodern opening that is similar to the Pirc Defense.
- Like the Pirc, the Modern Defense isn’t commonly seen in grandmaster games because it is relatively passive for Black. One advantage, however, is that it is less theory-heavy than many more popular choices like the Sicilian Defense or the Ruy Lopez.
- This opening can often transpose into the Pirc Defense or even the King’s Indian Defense, depending on how White plays.
Modern Defense: the moves
Here are the moves for the Modern Defense:
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1. e4 g6
A defense with many possibilities
If you’re an intermediate to advanced player who enjoys hypermodern openings that take your opponent into uncharted territory, try the Modern Defense!
If you’re looking for more openings, check out our guide featuring over 30 options for every skill level!