This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.
Indian Defense: London System
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. Nf3 e6 3. Bf4
FEN: rnbqkb1r/pppp1ppp/4pn2/8/3P1B2/5N2/PPP1PPPP/RN1QKB1R b KQkq - 1 3
The London System is a flexible and solid setup for White, characterized by the early development of the dark-squared bishop to f4 before committing the central pawns. By playing 3. Bf4, White aims for a harmonious piece placement while maintaining a strong grip on the center, particularly the d4 square.
Characteristic: The move 3. Bf4 is typical of the London System, emphasizing piece development and solid control rather than immediate central pawn storms. It prepares for a quick and safe kingside castle and supports potential central expansions later.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this setup is generally semi-aggressive—solid and flexible rather than overtly attacking. White maintains a stable center and good piece coordination, ready to respond to Black's plans. For Black, the Indian Defense is often a flexible and somewhat defensive approach, aiming to counterattack or challenge White's center later.
Center Control: This opening supports control of the center mainly through pieces rather than immediate pawn advances. White holds the d4 square firmly and can later contest or expand in the center depending on Black’s setup.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Indian Defense: London System, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 42 - Move #6 white
You can also discover how top players used Indian Defense: London System to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.