Closed, Portland Attack

The Portland Attack replaces the usual fianchetto with 4. g4, an early flank thrust that grabs kingside space and discourages ...Nf6. Black almost always replies 4...Bg7, and engines also suggest 4...d6 and 4...h5, the latter striking at the advanced pawn at once. The attack is seldom seen. In the few games on record Black scores better, and the engine gives Black a slight edge, since the pawn on g4 weakens White's kingside without forcing any concession.