Any suggestions. More to the point, what do you recommend in terms of pursuing the modern variation versus the four pawn attack?

I play both. Depends on the mood. The Modern variation when I'm in my solid frame of mind (not often in fast time controls) and the Four Pawns when I'm in a frisky mood. I would definitely look at both.

Against the Ne4 and Ng8 lines, don't worry, play common sense chess and you'll be fine/better. Look at the first so you have an idea of what's going on, but I'd stamp it as utter junk.

In the Modern variation, where black exchanges on move 4 (and in most cases when he does this at a later point) I know that there is theory around that'll say that the pawn recapture is best. You will want to recapture with a knight as a general rule. If the pawn goes up there it's a sitting duck.

There are all sorts of tricky lines, all following the main Alekhine defense (very modern btw) idea of undermining the center.
Here is a fascinating game between Bronstein and Ljubojewic in the Four Pawns. The line with c5 is really inventive and razorsharp.

Psychologically 2 Nc3 can be a useful ploy against the Alekhine's. Suddenly you are dictating the opening again, and not allowing them the 'comfort' of the extended centre to hit against.

Against 2 ... e5; you can look at punting the Vienna Gambit 3 f4, whilst against 2 ... d6; you can play d4 with a Pirc position

I'll take either as black. Nothing to be afraid of. However, worth considering is 2. ... d5. I've had a fair number of games continue 3. e5 d4 4. exf6 dxc3 etc. White gets (close to) nothing. I'll happily play the Pirc or Vienna Gambit with black though as I know both well enough not to lose.

Good stuff! Thanks guys, I'll keep you posted.

I think the modern variation is better than the four pawns attack. You have better chances to cross up black and black has to be much more accurate.

I'm employing the modern variation.

Playing chess blind must be very difficult for you Zatoichi!

This forum really needs a laughing smilie.

But the modern variation has so many traps for black to fall into and really requires great precision by black for a slight edge for white.

Yeah, I think you guys are objectively seen correct that the modern is better. However, the Four Pawns is fun! Resulted in many a vicious fight in my experience.