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Ponderchess / Openings

London System

d4, Bf4, e3, Nf3, c3 and Bd3. A setup White can play against almost anything, popular from club level to the elite.

Watch it in 3D

3D lesson · 15 steps · 60 seconds

The London System in 3D

One solid setup White can play against almost anything.

Preparing your opening…

Key ideas

  • The structure is solid and easy to learn. The bishop goes to f4 before e3 so it is not shut in.
  • White often follows up with Nbd2, h3 and a kingside attack with Ne5 and g4.

Plans for White

Build the setup, castle, then choose between a central e4 break and a kingside attack.

Plans for Black

Hit back early. ...c5 and ...Qb6, attacking b2, is the best-known way to test White.

Watch out

Against ...c5 and ...Qb6, White must decide quickly how to protect b2, for example with Qb3 or Qc1.