The London System
The universal system — solid development that works against everything.
Queen's Pawn Game Torre Attack (related)
Key Positions
The London: 2.Bf4 before e3 — bishop gets out first
Complete London setup: Bf4, e3, Bd3, Nf3
Fully developed: White eyes the Bxh7+ sacrifice
Plans
White's Plans
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Bf4, e3, Bd3, Nf3Set up the London pyramid — same development order against almost anything. -
e4The e4 break opens the center when Black isn't watching. -
Bxh7+The Greek Gift sacrifice is always lurking with Bd3 + Nf3 + Qe2 battery. -
Ne5Plant the knight on e5 for central dominance and kingside pressure.
Black's Plans
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...c5Challenge d4 directly — the most principled response. -
...Qb6Hit b2 to discourage White from playing e3 too early. - Develop the light-squared bishop actively before playing ...e6.
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...Nh5Challenge the f4 bishop — if it retreats to g3, Black gets the bishop pair with ...Nxg3.
Key Principle
The London's strength is simplicity — the same setup works against most defenses. Its weakness is predictability. Black should challenge the Bf4 early before the pyramid is complete.
Test Your Knowledge
Question 1 of 3
Why does White play 2.Bf4 before 2.e3 in the London?