A universally solid, low-theory opening setup for White that builds an impenetrable pyramid center and places the dark-squared bishop actively outside the pawn chain.
London System Interactive Move Trainer
Step 0 of 5
Position Analysis
Starting position. Use the controls below to step through the moves.
Core Strategic Ideas
Develop the dark-squared bishop to f4 before closing the pawn structure with e3.: Develop the dark-squared bishop to f4 before closing the pawn structure with e3.
Construct a rock-solid pawn pyramid on c3, d4, and e3.: Construct a rock-solid pawn pyramid on c3, d4, and e3.
Plant a powerful knight on the e5 outpost and swing the queen to the kingside.: Plant a powerful knight on the e5 outpost and swing the queen to the kingside.
♔ White's Strategic Plan
Play Bd3, c3, Nbd2, O-O, plant Ne5, and attack Black's kingside with Qh5 or f4.
♚ Black's Strategic Plan
Challenge White's bishop with ...Bd6 or ...c5, fianchetto with ...g6, or pressure the b2 weakness with ...Qb6.
Main Variations
Classical London (2...d5 3.Bf4)Modern London vs King's IndianJobava London (3.Nc3)