The QGD, Semi-Grunfeld
We know from chess openings like the Grunfeld Defense (1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6 3.Nc3 d5) that Black may control the center with pieces instead of pawns. But what about the Grunfeld's poor cousin, 1.d4 d5 2.c4 g6, clearly a member of this hypermodern family? The first issue of Kamikaze Times (November, 2002) called this line the "Alekhine Defense" against the Queen's Gambit. Alekhine did play this opening, but the editor correctly notes that Blackburne takes precedence. Unusual and seldom seen, there is not much theory to learn nor many games to consult; those who enjoy offbeat chess openings may investigate further. First we have Blackburne at work:
Games
Apparently a blend of the Scandinavian Defense and the Grunfeld Defense. As pointed out by the Kamikaze Times, "Black's idea is the standard hypermodern one: rather than occupying the center with his pawns, he'll control the center from a distance using his minor pieces. This is the point of playing ...g6; the dark-squared Bishop will go to g6 and put pressure on the d4-pawn, as well as exert control over the e5 square." Now let's see Alekhine's interpretation:
Games
If you want a surprise weapon versus the Queen's Gambit, then the Semi-Grunfeld Defense may be worth a look!