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.
Opening Name: Queen's Pawn: London
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Bf4 c5 4. e3 e6
FEN: rnbqkb1r/pp3ppp/4pn2/2pp4/3P1B2/4PN2/PPP2PPP/RN1QKB1R w KQkq - 0 5
The London System is characterized by White’s early development of the dark-squared bishop to f4, supporting a solid and flexible pawn structure with pawns on d4 and e3. This setup aims for a strong, resilient formation that is easy to play and less theory-intensive.
Characteristic: The London System emphasizes quick piece development and a solid pawn structure rather than immediate confrontation. White aims for steady control and harmonious piece coordination.
Attacking or Defensive: When playing as White, this opening is generally considered more positional and somewhat defensive but with latent attacking potential, especially on the kingside. Black’s moves like ...c5 and ...e6 are standard counters, challenging the center and preparing development. Black plays actively to undermine White’s center and space.
Center Control: Although White does not immediately occupy the center with pawns beyond d4 and e3, the London System supports a strong central presence indirectly. Black challenges the center with ...c5 and ...e6, aiming to contest White’s space.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Queen's Pawn: London, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 29 - Move #7 black
You can also discover how top players used Queen's Pawn: London to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.