Plychess
Beginner Friendly

London System

The solid and reliable opening for White. Learn one system and play it against anything!

ECO: A46-A48Closed GameEasy to Learn
Main Line Moves
The classic London setup
1.d4

White opens with the Queen's pawn.

1...d5

Black responds symmetrically (most common).

2.Bf4!

The London System! White develops the Bishop outside the pawn chain.

2...Nf6

Black develops the Knight, controlling e4.

3.e3

White solidifies the center and prepares to develop.

3...c5

Black challenges White's center immediately.

=
BeginnerVery High
Classic London
1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 Nf6 3.e3 c5 4.c3

The traditional setup. White plays c3 to support d4 and prepare e4 later.

Analyze
=
BeginnerHigh
Modern London
1.d4 Nf6 2.Bf4

Bypassing ...d5, White uses the London against any Black setup. Very flexible!

Analyze
=/±
IntermediateMedium
Jobava London
1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 Nc6 3.Nc3

A tricky sideline where White attacks immediately on the queenside.

Analyze
=/±
IntermediateMedium
London Attack
1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 Nf6 3.e3 Bf5 4.c4

More aggressive approach, transforming into a Queen's Gambit structure.

Analyze
=
IntermediateLow
Stonewall Setup
1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 Nf6 3.e3 e6 4.Bd3 c5 5.f4

Hybrid with the Stonewall Dutch. White creates a solid pawn chain.

Analyze

One System for Everything

The London System works against almost any Black response. Learn it once, play it forever. Perfect for players who want to focus on strategy, not memorization.

Why Play the London System?

Advantages

  • Easy to learn and remember
  • Works against any Black setup
  • Solid and hard to crack
  • Used by World Champions
  • Great for blitz and rapid

Challenges

  • Can be predictable at higher levels
  • Black can equalize with good play
  • Less forcing than main lines
  • May lack winning advantage

Related Openings