Chess Opening for White · 1.d4
How to Play the London System
Simple, solid, and reliable. One setup to handle anything.
1.d4 d5 2.Bf4
The Main Line
Standard Setup
Bf4 + e3 + Nf3 — the pyramid · 9 lessons
Main Variations
vs King's Indian
...Nf6, ...g6 — handle the fianchetto
vs ...c5
Counter-strike the center
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the London System?
- Simple, solid, and reliable. One setup to handle anything. The main moves are 1.d4 d5 2.Bf4.
- Is the London System good for beginners?
- Yes. The London System follows the core opening principles — develop pieces toward the center, control the center, and castle early — which makes it a natural fit for players who are still learning how to open a game.
- What are the main variations of the London System?
- The London System includes several well-known variations: vs King's Indian, vs ...c5. Each leads to a different type of position with its own plans and typical middlegame ideas.
- How do I learn the London System?
- Chess Path teaches the London System one move at a time with interactive lessons — you predict the next move, play it on the board, then Rookie explains why it works. Start with the main line, then branch into the variations once the key moves feel natural.
Learn the London System interactively
Rookie teaches you every move — predict, play, repeat.
Start the London System lessons