D02 · for White · beginner
London System
CoursePlay this line through, move by move →5/5
1.d4d52.Nf3Nf63.Bf4
A flexible, low-theory system where White develops the bishop to f4 and sets up a solid pyramid with e3, Bd3, c3 and Nbd2 against almost anything. It is hugely popular for its reliability and easy-to-learn plans.
Key ideas
- Set up the solid Bf4, e3, Bd3, c3, Nbd2 structure against most defenses
- Aim for the e4 or e5 central break at the right moment
- Attack the kingside with Ne5, Qf3 and pawn advances
- Rely on a reusable plan rather than heavy memorisation
Live databaseLichess 1600–2000 · blitz + rapid
Queen's Pawn Game: London System10.7M games · Black to move
MoveWhite / draw / BlackPlayedGamesScore
20%2.1M48%
15%1.6M52%
12%1.2M44%
7.8%831k46%
6.5%696k47%
6%641k47%
0.9%101k44%
0.9%99k46%
0.8%83k46%
Famous games in this line8.8k master games
Carlsen, M. (2859) – Ding Liren (2811)Carlsen, M. (2861) – Ding Liren (2805)Carlsen, Magnus (2863) – Ding, Liren (2791)Carlsen, Magnus (2863) – Ding, Liren (2791)Carlsen, Magnus (2863) – Ding, Liren (2791)Carlsen, Magnus (2863) – Ding, Liren (2791)Carlsen, Magnus (2863) – Ding, Liren (2791)Carlsen, M. (2872) – Aronian, L. (2775)Heroes of this opening Carlsen, Magnus
Keep exploring
Nearby lines in the family
Study this opening