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Semi-Open Games (1.e4, not 1...e5) · B06

Pirc Defense

1.e4 d6 2.d4 Nf6 3.Nc3 g6

The Pirc Defense is a hypermodern opening where Black allows White to build a strong center and then attacks it with pieces, especially the fianchettoed bishop on g7. It's a flexible system that can lead to highly complex positions.

After 4.f4 (the Austrian Attack), White builds a massive pawn center and attacks immediately. The Classical System (4.Be3 or 4.Nf3) is more positional. The Pirc bishop on g7 becomes a powerful piece in the middlegame and especially in the endgame.

Pros

• Flexible and hypermodern
• The fianchettoed bishop is very powerful long-term
• Good for counterattacking players

Cons

• White can build a large pawn center
• The Austrian Attack is very aggressive
• Black's position can look passive in the early stages

Main variations

• Austrian Attack — 4.f4 Bg7 5.Nf3 0-0 6.e5
• Classical System — 4.Nf3 Bg7 5.Be2
• Byrne Variation — 4.Bg5 Bg7 5.Qd2