ECO code: A48
Opening Name: London System
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. Nf3 g6 3. Bf4
FEN: rnbqkb1r/pppppp1p/5np1/8/3P1B2/5N2/PPP1PPPP/RN1QKB1R b KQkq - 1 3
The London System is characterized by White’s early development of the dark-squared bishop to f4, supporting central control without committing pawns to e4 immediately. This setup is flexible and solid, aiming for a strong and harmonious piece placement.
Characteristic of the move 3.Bf4: It develops the bishop outside the pawn chain before playing e3, preventing Black’s easy counterplay and preparing a stable center.
From White’s perspective, the London System is generally considered a positional and solid opening, leaning more towards a defensive and strategic setup rather than immediate tactical attacks. White controls the center primarily with pawns on d4 and e3, combined with strong piece placement, rather than direct pawn confrontation.
As for the center, White does not aggressively attack the center with pawns early on (like e4), but instead focuses on controlling it with pieces and a solid pawn structure. This allows White to build a resilient position and react flexibly to Black’s plans.
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.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the London System, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 21 - Move #8 white