ECO code: A48
Neo-King's Indian: London System
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. Nf3 g6 3. Bf4 Bg7
This opening combines elements of the solid London System setup with a Neo-King's Indian defensive structure from Black. White develops the bishop early to f4, aiming for a flexible and harmonious setup, while Black fianchettoes the dark-squared bishop, preparing for a King’s Indian style counterplay.
Characteristic: White’s early Bf4 is a hallmark of the London System, focusing on solid piece placement and control of key squares without immediate central tension. Black’s g6 and Bg7 moves indicate a hypermodern approach, allowing White to occupy or challenge the center initially while preparing to undermine it later.
Playing style: As White, this setup is generally positional and solid, aiming for gradual central control and piece development rather than immediate attacks. Black’s setup is flexible and counterattacking, often leading to dynamic play once central tension arises.
Center control: White does not directly challenge the center with pawns early on but supports it with pieces, maintaining a stable foothold. Black aims to contest or undermine the center later through piece pressure and pawn breaks typical of the King’s Indian Defense structures.
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 Neo-King's Indian: London System, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 22 - Move #8 white