ECO code: D00
Queen's Pawn Game: Accelerated London System
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. Bf4
Description: The Accelerated London System is a variation of the London System where White develops the dark-squared bishop early to f4 instead of the usual fianchetto or staying behind the pawn chain. This early bishop development aims to solidify White's control over the e5 square and prepares for a quick and harmonious piece setup.
Characteristic of this move: The key feature of 2. Bf4 is that it develops the bishop outside the pawn chain before playing e3, which accelerates White’s piece activity and avoids the common problem of the bishop being "locked in." This early bishop deployment also supports potential central and queenside plans.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this move is more positional and flexible, leaning towards a solid but active setup rather than a direct attack. It can transition into attacking chances depending on how the center unfolds. Black usually responds with solid development to counter White’s setup.
Center Control: While White does not immediately challenge the center with pawns, the move supports control of key central squares, especially e5. White often follows up with c3 and e3 to maintain a strong, resilient center and prepare for possible central breaks later.
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.
This opening family has 513 puzzles across its lines. Play a few more moves in the Opening Explorer to narrow the position before practicing.
Narrow this opening in Explorer →You can also discover how top players used Queen's Pawn Game: Accelerated London System to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.