Modern: 3.c3

Before the first move

The Modern Defense is a hypermodern opening where Black invites White to build a large center, only to attack it later. By playing 3.c3, White chooses a solid, rock-like structure that blunts Black's powerful fianchettoed bishop on g7. This creates a sturdy foundation for White's central control while preparing for slow, positional play.

1. e4White · your move

Push your pawn to e4. This move claims the center immediately and opens pathways for your queen and light-squared bishop. It is the most popular way to start the game, leading to open positions and direct tactical battles.

1... g6Black

Black responds with g6, the hallmark of the Modern Defense. Instead of occupying the center with pawns, Black prepares to influence it from afar. You might also encounter the Pirc with d6 or more unusual responses like the Borg with g5 or the Barnes with f6.

Other paths here: f6 (Barnes Defense) · g5 (Borg Defense) · h6 (Carr Defense) · f5 (Duras Gambit)

2. d4White · your move

Push your pawn to d4. By placing a second pawn in the center, you establish a classic duo that controls the critical e5 and c5 squares. This forces Black to decide how they will challenge your dominance in the middle of the board.

Other paths here: Nc3 (Modern) · Bc4 (Modern Defense) · Nf3 (Pterodactyl Defense: Western, Siroccopteryx)

2... Bg7Black

Black plays Bg7, completing the fianchetto. The bishop is now a powerful long-range piece. While this is the main line, Black sometimes tries the Norwegian with Nf6 or the Rat Defense with d6 to mix up the move order and confuse White's plans.

Other paths here: c6 (Modern) · f5 (Modern Defense: Fianchetto Gambit) · Nf6 (Modern Defense: Norwegian Defense) · d6 (Rat Defense: Accelerated Gurgenidze)

3. c3White · your move

Move your pawn to c3. This move reinforces your d4 pawn and creates a solid chain that limits the scope of Black's g7 bishop. It also prepares a safe retreat for your queen or a future expansion on the queenside.

Other paths here: Bc4 (Modern Defense: Bishop Attack) · Nc3 (Modern Defense: Standard Line) · f4 (Modern Defense: Three Pawns Attack) · Bd2 (Modern Defense: Westermann Gambit)

Where you stand

The position is balanced but strategically deep. White has a rock-solid center and will likely develop the knights to f3 and d2. Black will look to undermine White's center with moves like d6 and c5. Both sides must be patient, as the game will revolve around the tension between White's space and Black's counter-attacking potential.

• g1-f3 Develop the knight to a natural square.
• d7-d6 Prepare to challenge the center with d6.
• b1-d2 Support the center from the d2 square.
• c8-e6 Develop the bishop to an active post.