Modern Defense: Semi-Averbakh Variation, Pterodactyl Variation

1.Nf3 c5 2.c4 g6 3.d4 Bg7 4.e4 Qa5+

ECO A04

The Modern Defense: Semi-Averbakh Variation, Pterodactyl Variation is a chess opening line in the Modern Defense complex, reached after 1.Nf3 c5 2.c4 g6 3.d4 Bg7 4.e4 Qa5+.

It is catalogued under code A04 in the Encyclopaedia of Chess Openings (ECO).

The defining move Qa5+ is chosen by Black on move 4.

Do you want to learn openings?

Start with a GM-authored repertoire you study move by move, then practice against a human-like AI opponent:

• Catalan Opening
• King's Indian Defense with ...e5

Every chess term used here is defined in the chess terms glossary. Browse all opening courses or the full ECO code index.