Opening a game of chess with 1.d4 offers a vast array of possibilities and the London System is one of the most straightforward yet effective systems for White. Characterized by early pawn advances to d4 and e3, followed by the development of the dark-squared bishop to f4, the London System is all about simple development and flexible plans. Note that White can also opt for Nf3 before Bf4, but the latter has become more prominent in recent years and will be our main focus.

The London System: Table of Contents

• London System Background
  • Name Origins
  • History
• London System Theory
  • The …Nf6 and …e6 setup
  • The …g6 setups
    • 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bf4 g6 3.e3
    • 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bf4 g6 3.Nc3
  • The …c5 setups
    • 1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 c5
    • 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bf4 c5
• Learn to play the London System
  • Books to Learn From
  • Game Examples

London System Background

The London System has been around for over a century but has seen an increase in popularity in recent years due to its inherent simplicity and the ability to sidestep a lot of mainstream opening theory.

Name Origins

Curiously, there isn’t a definite historic event tied to the naming of the London System. The name likely stems from its early adoption by British players and usage in various London-based tournaments.

In chess, a “system” refers to an opening where the player can follow a consistent set of plans or move orders, often independent of the specific moves of the opponent. The idea is to achieve a familiar pawn structure or piece setup, allowing the player to understand and execute typical plans, maneuvers, and ideas with confidence. Systems are generally solid, and make learning theory easier through reduced memorization.

History

This opening started to gain some attention in the early 20th century, and has been employed by World Champions like Tigran Petrosian and Anatoly Karpov. Its resurgence in recent years can be attributed to top players seeking less-explored paths and steering the game into middle-game positions they are comfortable with. Similarly, the opening has become extremely popular amongst novice and club players due to its easy setup with minimal theory to learn.

London System Theory

White’s setup involves d4, Nf3, Bf4, e3, h3 (sometimes), c3, Bd3, and Nbd2. The structure is solid and can be adopted against a variety of Black setups.

Black has a few different setups to choose from,

…Nf6 and …e6 Setups

1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 Nf6 3.e3 e6

White’s plans:

• White’s common moves here include Nf3, Bd3, c3, Nbd2, forming a robust setup.
• It is important for White to not allow Black to break with …e5. A common idea is to control the e5-square by playing Ne5 at some point.

Black’s plans:

• Black simply looks to develop pieces harmoniously and get a solid position.
• Black can opt for …Bd6 to challenge White’s Bf4, which is a typical idea in many openings against the London System. Black can fianchetto the light-squared bishop with …b6 and …Bb7.
• …c5 is often played, challenging White’s center before developing …Nc6. Note that White almost always defends d4 with c3.

A typical line:

…g6 setups

1.d4 Nf6 2.Bf4 g6

These setups often resemble King’s Indian or Grunfeld Defenses where Black allows White to occupy the center, with the intention to challenge it later. After 2…g6, White has two main ways to respond; 3.e3 and 3.Nc3.

3.e3

This keeps in line with the main London System setups where White will develop their pieces with the usual approach.

White’s plans:

• White develops their pieces with the usual London System approach (Nf3, c3, Nbd2)
• The light-squared bishop tends to develop to e2 instead of d3, since …g6 by Black closed the b1-h7 diagonal.
• An important move to include is h3, not to necessarily defend g4, but rather to open up the h2-square for the dark-squared bishop to retreat to if necessary.

Black’s plans:

• Black aims to complete the fianchetto setup and castle quickly.
• Black follows up with …d6, …Nbd7, and eventually …c5 or sometimes …e5 to attack White’s center

A typical line:

Of course this is one way for the game to continue, and there are many alternatives for both sides.

3.Nc3

This setup in the London System adds a wrinkle to the game that can be quite challenging for Black. With 3.Nc3, White is deviating from more traditional London System plans that often involve Nf3 and e3, aiming for a more aggressive approach. White plans to push e4 next, which Black must decide to allow by continuing with …Bg7, or to prevent by continuing with …d5.

3.Nc3 d5

Black can counter with …d5 to challenge White’s center immediately. After 4.e3 Bg7 White’s main move is 5.h4 which represents the type of solid attacks that White can get with a Kingside pawn storm, in many lines.

White’s threat is to go for h5 and open up Black’s Kingside, so Black usually opts for 5…h5 to prevent this. Play may continue with 6.Nf3 0-0 7.Ne5 and Black tries to break with 7…c5.

White can also omit h4 and instead go for a quieter 5.Nf3 which is followed by similar piece development as in the 5.h4 line. An important idea for both sides to be aware of though, is if Black “quietly” responds with the normal-looking 5…Nc6 which is in fact a blunder because of 6.Nb5!

3.Nc3 Bg7

The Bg7 setup often leads to a complex, strategic battle that can transpose into various other opening systems.

The immediate plan for White might involve playing e4 which creates a pawn duo in the center, aiming to gain space and set the stage for aggressive piece play. Some lines can involve the move Qd2, followed by long castling. This can lead to interesting attacking prospects, including ideas like Bh6 to exchange the dark-squared bishop and weaken Black’s kingside.

Potential Transpositions:

1. Pirc or Modern Defense: If White pushes e4 and Black responds with …d6, we may get positions that closely resemble the Pirc or Modern Defense.
2. King’s Indian Defense (KID): If Black chooses to play …d6 followed by …Nbd7 and e5, the position can resemble typical King’s Indian structures.

A typical line:

…c5 setups

Black’s move …c5 is a direct and active way to challenge White’s setup, aiming for quick counterplay and attempting to undermine the d4 pawn. There are a few main ways for Black to employ this – either with …d5 or …Nf6. Let’s take a look:

1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 c5

This is a direct approach, immediately challenging the d4 pawn. White can capture, but best is e3, supporting the d4-pawn. After 3…Nc6 4.c3 play can continue with 4…Nf6 but an important line to know is 4…Qb6:

Here White opts for either 5.Qc2 or 5.Qb3, but the following is a funky line:

5.Qb3 c4 6.Qc2 e5! 7.dxe5 Bf5

And White must play 8.Qc1 because the black bishop is poisonous and should not be captured with 8.Qxf5? Black’s f5 bishop was sent to lure the white queen away from the b2-pawn so that Black can capture 8…Qxb2 and pick up the white rook next.

1. d4 Nf6 2. Bf4 c5

Here, Black combines the Indian setups with the direct …c5 challenge. Once again, White defends with 3.e3 but now Black can immediately play 3…Qb6, targeting the b2-pawn. This is an important line for White to learn as the best move is the not-so-obvious 4.Nc3,, allowing Black to capture on b2.

The following is a typical continuation:

It’s worth noting that in the …c5 lines against the London System, understanding typical pawn structures, piece placement, and strategic goals is more crucial than memorizing specific move orders. While the London System itself is a “systematic” opening, the …c5 break by Black seeks to make the game more dynamic and less about routine development.

There are of course a few different setups for both sides, and we have by no means covered them all. Theory is still developing and there are many lines to choose from to suit your taste!

Learn to Play the London System

Books to Learn From

The London System: The Adventure Continues

Publisher: Chess Fortress

Author: Nikola Sedlak

Level: Intermediate

View Free Sample

Trompowsky Attack and London System

Publisher: New in Chess

Author: Viktor Moskalenko

Level: Intermediate

View Free Sample

The London System in 12 Practical Lessons

Publisher: New in Chess

Author: Oscar de Prado

Level: Intermediate

View Free Sample

First Steps: The Colle and London Systems

Publisher: Everyman Chess

Author: Cyrus Lakdawala

Level: Beginner

View Free Sample

Game Examples

Carlsen – Maghsoodloo

London System: …g6 setups

Kamsky – Goganov

London System: …Nf6 and …e6 Setups

Liren – Nepomniachtchi

Even though this London started with 2.Nf3, I feel it is important to include game 6 from the Ding – Nepo World Championship match. The fact that this opening appeared in the highest level of chess (and White won!) proves that it not just a simple club-level choice.

And that’s all folks!

Have any questions, or opening suggestions? Let us know in the comments!

Let’s take a look into the origins of the Caro-Kann, its main lines and ideas, and the best way to learn and master this classic opening.

The Caro-Kann Defense: Table of Contents

• Caro-Kann Background
  • Name Origins
  • History
• Caro-Kann Theory
  • 3.Nc3 & 3.Nd2: Classical & Two Knights Variations
  • 3.exd5: Exchange Variation
  • 3.e5: Advanced Variation
• Learn to play the Caro-Kann
  • Books to Learn From
  • Game Examples

Caro-Kann Background

The Caro-Kann Defense wasn’t initially as popular as the French Defense or the Sicilian Defense. It was often viewed as a passive choice, ceding the center to White. However, its solid pawn structure and robustness made it a favorite among those looking to avoid the many tactical melees found in the other defenses to 1.e4.

Caro-Kann Name Origins

The Caro-Kann owes its name to Horatio Caro and Marcus Kann, two chess players who analyzed this defense in the 19th century, with their findings published in 1886.

A game by Horatio playing the Caro-Kann:

Caro-Kann History

The opening truly began to gain traction and respect in the mid-20th century, especially during the 1950s and 1960s. World Champions like Anatoly Karpov and several top-level players like Viktor Korchnoi chose it as a key part of their repertoire. This led to a deep exploration of its many subtleties and nuances at the highest level. Its reputation as a solid yet rich opening has only grown over the years.

Caro-Kann Theory

After 1.e4 c6 2.d4, Black continues with 2…d5, immediately challenging White’s central pawn.

3.Nc3 & 3.Nd2: Classical & Two Knights Variations

These are both aggressive options for White. Black usually responds with 3…dxe4, and after 4.Nxe4 the game can branch out in numerous directions from there.

4…Nd7: Modern (Karpov) Variation

Black aims for a solid, yet flexible development. The knight on d7 supports the other knight coming to f6.

• White often aims for a minor piece play, trying to exploit the slight lead in development and central space. Moves like Ng3, Nf3, Bd3 followed by kingside castling are common. The idea of a quick Qe2 and Rd1 can also be seen to place pressure on the d-file.
• Black, on the other hand, will continue with …Ngf6, and depending on the situation, either …e6 or …g6, preparing to fianchetto the king’s bishop. The pawn break with …e5 is crucial and often leads to a freeing of Black’s position.

4…Nf6 5.Nxf6 exf6: Tartakower Variation

Black voluntarily accepts a double pawn weakness on f6 but gets a few benefits in return such as an open e-file for the Kingside rook, open Bishops that are ready to develop, and a safe and solid Kingside.

• Black quickly develops with …Bd6, …0-0, …Re8 and places pressure on the Kingside with moves like …Qc7. A knight maneuver to remember is Nd7-Nf8-Ng6 to bring the Knight over for the action (or defense).
• White solidifies their pawn structure with c3, followed by developing via Bd3 and Qc2. A check on the e-file from the black Rook is usually blocked with Ne2, whereafter White decides if they want to castle on the Kingside or Queenside.

4…Nf6 5.Nxf6 gxf6: Bronstein–Larsen Variation

Named after the great David Bronstein and Bent Larsen, two players known for dynamic and unconventional chess, this line represents a willingness to compromise pawn structure for piece activity. This line can lead to rich, double-edged positions, with chances for both sides. The pawn on f6 can be a strength or a weakness, depending on the flow of the game. Black uses the open g-file for their rook, and more often than not, castles queenside.

3.exd5: Exchange Variation

After 3…cxd5, the game can lead to more of an open game, with imbalanced positions and aggressive play.

4.c4: Panov/Botvinnik

After 4…dxc4, Black gives up the center, and we often reach an IQP position for White. This pawn can be both a strength and a weakness: it offers dynamic potential, control of key squares, and chances for a kingside attack for White, but it can also become a target for Black in the endgame.

• The main plans for White involve a kingside attack, utilizing the half-open e-file, and pushing d5 at the right moment.
• Black typically seeks to exchange pieces, given that in the endgame, the IQP can become a liability. The main strategy revolves around blockading the d-pawn, while also looking for counterplay on the Kingside or Queenside, or central breaks with …e5 in some lines.

4.Bd3: Main Line

Bd3 prevents Black’s natural …Bf5 development and readies White to develop naturally with moves like Nf3 and O-O.

• Black has a typical Carlsbad pawn structure that has both strengths and weaknesses; while Black has a semi-open e-file for counterplay, there’s also a potential minority attack on the queenside for White.

3.e5: Advanced Variation

Here, White immediately grabs space in the center. Black’s common responses include 3…Bf5 and 3…c5, aiming to challenge White’s pawns and activate their pieces.

3…Bf5

• Typically, White aims to solidify the pawn on e5, develop pieces harmoniously. The pawn on e5 restricts Black’s natural development, especially the knight on g8. Black’s f5-Bishop sometimes becomes an annoying target, as White goes crazy on the Kingside with pawn storms.
• Black looks for counterplay on the queenside with …c5 or …Qb6, and may also aim to challenge the e5 pawn with …f6 at the right moment.

Theory is still developing in these types of positions, and lines can become quite aggressive for both sides.

3…c5

With 3…c5, Black immediately challenges White’s center. Instead of playing the usual …Bf5 to develop the pieces, Black sidesteps a lot of theory and opts for immediate counterplay in the center.

White now has a few options:

4.dxc5: The most straightforward response, capturing the pawn. After 4…e6, Black aims to recapture the c5-pawn with the bishop or the knight.
4.c3: This move supports the pawn on d4 and can lead to French Defense-like structures.
4.Nf3: A natural developing move, aiming to support the d4-pawn.

Learn to play the Caro-Kann

Books to Learn From

Playing the Caro-Kann

Author: Lars Schandorff

Publisher: Quality Chess

View Book

Opening Repertoire: The Caro-Kann

Author: Jovanka Houska

Publisher: Everyman Chess

View Book

The Caro-Kann Revisited

Author: Francesco Rambaldi

Publisher: Thinkers Publishing

View Book

Game Examples

Kosakowski vs Adhiban

A nice game in the advanced variation that shows how Black completely dismantles White’s center:

Deep Blue – Kasparov

Although the Caro-Kann is known to be solid, sometimes White goes for the opposite and aims for explosions on the board. This game between Kasparov and Deep Blue shows just that:

Hossain – Le

A classical Caro-Kann in the Tartakower Variation:

Ready to try out the Caro-Kann? Let us know what you think!

In this exploration, we’ll delve into the origins of the French Defense, its main lines and ideas, and the best way to learn and master this intriguing opening.

The French Defense: Table of Contents

• French Defense Background
  • Name Origins
  • History
• French Defense Theory
  • 3.Nc3: French Defense Mainline
    • 3…Bb4 the Winawer Variation
    • 3…Nf6 the Classical Variation
    • 3…dxe4 the Rubinstein Variation
  • 3.Nd2: Tarrasch Variation
  • 3.e5: Advance Variation
  • 3.exd5 exd5: Exchange Variation
• Learn to play the French Defense
  • Books to Learn From
  • Game Examples

French Defense Background

The origins of the French Defense can be traced back to the 18th century, although it only really gained prominence and recognition as a distinct opening in the 19th century.

French Defense Name Origins

The name “French Defense” itself comes from the first recorded game in which it was played, which was part of a correspondence match between the cities of London and Paris in 1834. The opening was named “French Defense” because the Parisian players victoriously played it, thanks to team member Jacques Chamouillet who convincingly advocated for it. Here is one of the games from the match, which the Parisian team won 2-0:

French Defense History

Although the French Defense wasn’t as extensively studied or played in earlier times as some other openings, its popularity grew throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Grandmasters like Akiba Rubinstein, Viktor Korchnoi, and more recently Alexander Morozevich, and Teimour Radjabov, have been associated with this opening and have contributed to its theory and development.

Today, according to the Chessbase online database, it is Black’s third most popular response after 1…c5 and 1…e5.

Let’s take a look at some of the Main lines.

French Defense Theory

The first move 1…e6 allows Black to establish a solid pawn chain with pawns on d4 and e6. This setup often leads to a position with an asymmetrical pawn structure, where both sides have different plans and strategies. The main line follows with 2.d4 d5 – there are alternatives but setups from this position will be our focus.

3.Nc3: French Defense Mainline

This is White’s most popular response by far – they develop their knight and defend the e-pawn. Black now has three Main options:

a) 3…Bb4 the Winawer Variation

The Winawer is one the most aggressive lines in the French. Black aims to disrupt White’s pawn structure and the result is usually imbalanced positions that offer both sides chances for dynamic play. Black pins the c3-Knight, leaving the e4-pawn undefended and therefore, White’s most common response is 4.e5.

What ensues is a battle for the center with 4…c5 as Black aggressively challenges White’s center and aims to create pawn breaks. This leads to an imbalanced pawn structure with open lines and potential for tactics. A common continuation is 5.a3 Bxc3 6.bxc3 where Black gives up the important dark-squared Bishop in order to disrupt White’s Pawn structure, creating potential long-term weaknesses.

b) 3…Nf6 the Classical Variation

Once again, Black puts pressure on the e-pawn and asks White to make a decision. The two main responses for White are 4.Bg5 and 4.e5.

With 4.Bg5, White develops and pins Black’s knight, momentarily relieving some of the central pressure, and at the same time threatens 5.e5. Black has three main responses here:

• 4…Be7 blocking the pin. This is followed by 5.e5 Nfd7 6.Bxe7 Qxe7 7.f4 where White employs a Kingside attack and Black will aim for …c5 at some point.
• 4…dxe4 clarifying the center. This is followed by 5.Nxe4 Be7 6.Bxf6 Bxf6 or 6…gxf6.
• 4…Bb4 a counterattacking choice! After 5.e5 h6 6.Bd2 Bxc3 7.bxc3 Ne4 8.Qg4 the position is a little tricky but Black has 8…Kf8 or 8…g6 intending to castle Queenside.

c) 3…dxe4 the Rubinstein Variation

This is by far a tamer option, and Black scores pretty well at the top level. After 4.Nxe4 Black has two main options:

• 4…Nd7 preparing …Ngf6 and recapturing with the Knight. A common continuation is 5.Nf3 Ngf6 6.Nxf6 Nxf6 7.Bd3 c5.
• 4…Bd7 where Black aims to activate the (infamously passive French) light-squared Bishop. 5.Nf3 Bc6 6.Bd3 Nd7 7.0-0 Nf6 is a normal continuation.

3.Nd2: Tarrasch Variation

Named after the German chess player Siegbert Tarrasch, the Tarrasch is a strategic and flexible choice for both colors. White defends the e-pawn but avoids the Bb4 pin, and does not block the c-pawn therefore enabling White to play c3 at some point to build a solid pawn structure.

From here, Black has a few different options:

3…Nf6

Black’s most popular choice. After 4.e5 Nfd7 5.Bd3, Black gets the typical French 5…c5. Play continues 6.c3 Nc6 7.Ne2 (to allow the oddly placed d2-Knight to get to f3) 7…cxd4 8.cxd4

From this position, a common French break for Black to remember is 8..f6. Black gets a backward e-pawn, but in exchange for space.

3…c5

Followed mainly by 4.exd5 and Black has two ways to recapture:

• 4…Qxd5
  • Black aims to dismantle White’s center at the expense of bringing the queen out early which allows White to develop and attack. A typical continuation is 5.Ngf3 cxd4 6.Bc4 Qd6 7.0-0 Nf6 8.Nb3 Nc6 9.Nbxd4
• 4…exd5
  • Black enters a likely IQP set-up. Play may continue with 5.Ngf3 Nc6 6.Bb5 Bd6 7.dxc5 Bxc5 and leads to dynamic games as Black has piece activity.

Other lines after 3.Nd2 include:

• 3…dxe4 which transposes to the Rubinstein Variation
• 3…Be7 the Morozevich Variation
• 3…Nc6 the Guimard Variation

3.e5: Advance Variation

Instead of defending the e-pawn, White pushes it and aims to build a solid pawn chain. The main line continues 3…c5 4.c3 Nc6 5.Nf3

From here, Black has a few options. Let’s consider one of the main ones:

5…Qb6

Black increases pressure on the d4-pawn. White has:

• 6.a3 where a typical line is 6…c4 7.Nbd2 Na5 and Black controls the b3-square.
• 6.Be2 simply intending to castle. Black clarifies the center a bit with 6…cxd4 7.cxd4 and then aims to put more pressure on the d4-pawn by bringing the knight to f5 via h6 or e7.
• 6.Bd3 once again White develops and prepares to castle, but here we can see a must-know trap: 6…cxd4 7.cxd4 Nxd4 a big mistake! 8.Nxd4 Qxd4 9.Bb5+!

3.exd5 exd5: Exchange Variation

White avoids a lot of complicated and theoretical lines by just capturing immediately, opening up the center, and restoring symmetry.

In order to create some action on the board, White can choose to go for c4, creating an IQP with space and piece activity, or castling Queenside. Otherwise, positions can be quite timid and drawish if the symmetry remains.

Learn to play the French Defense

Books to Learn From

First Steps: The French

Author: Cyrus Lakdawala

Publisher: Everyman Chess

Level: Beginner

View Book

The Fully-Fledged French

Author: Viktor Moskalenko

Publisher: New in Chess

Level: Intermediate

View Book

The French Defense Revisited

Author: Dragoljub Jacimovic and Boroljub Zlatanovic

Publisher: Thinkers Publishing

Level: Intermediate

View Book

The Exchange French Comes to Life

Author: Alex Fishbein

Publisher: Russell Enterprises

Level: Intermediate

View Book

Game Examples

Anand – Carlsen

French Defense Winawer

Tabatabaei – Grischuk

French Defense Advanced

Polgar – Kramnik

French Defense Exchange Variation

The French Defense continues to be a popular and dynamic choice for Black against 1.e4. Its rich history, extensive analysis, and strategic complexities make it a fascinating opening to study and play. It is part of many top players’ repertoires, from Carlsen to Grischuk, but is fitting for players of all levels!

But enter the new release The London Files by authors GM Vassilios Kotronias and GM Mikhail Ivanov who are challenging this stable notion of the London, and turning it inside out by providing four different ways to combat it as Black:

• King’s Indian Setups
• The London Benoni
• The London Nimzo- and Queen’s Indian
• The London Orthodox System

The book’s foreword asserts that it “will give Black players highly effective means to deal with the London System for a long time to come and may even have players completely rethinking their approach with the white pieces.” A bold statement, and perhaps every comfortable London player’s worst nightmare!

Let’s take a look at what this new book is exactly about.

The London Files Part I: King’s Indian Setups

The first chapter deals with King’s Indian Setups from 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bf4 g6 3.Nf3 Bg7.

From the above position, the authors examine a few of White’s main approaches:

• 4.Nbd2 with 5.e4
• 4.c4 with 5.Nc3
• 4.c3, 5.h3 with 6.e3
• 4.e3, 5.h3 with 6.Be2

Furthermore, the authors start off by explaining White’s system and how you as Black will aim to face it:

The London Files Part II: The London Benoni

The second option for Black is a good one to use against unprepared opponents, or opponents who prefer quiet and structural starts (which the London tends to provide). Black starts an immediate attack with 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bf4 c5!

White’s main response is 3.e3, but the book also covers White’s other options like:

• 3.dxc5
• 3.c3
• 3.d5

However, what one can really appreciate about this book, is that the authors provide you with different options to choose from – with setups, but also variations within. Such as in the 3.e3 line here, chapter 5 focuses on the complicated and tricky 3…Nd5 line, but another chapter (6) is devoted to the more practical 3…Qb6 variation.

Chapter 10 “The London Hybrid System” looks at the move order 1.d4 Nf6 2.Nf3 (instead of Bf4 first) and continues in the same spirit with 2…c5.

The London Files Part III: The London Nimzo- and Queen’s Indian

Nimzo/Queen’s Indian setups are more positional compared to the King’s Indian, and the book offers setups that fit perfectly within this scope.

Black’s play is labeled “light-square mode” with the idea of exchanging light-squared bishops. The theory given, as throughout the book, is deeply researched and Black achieves a long-term positional advantage. After 3…b6, the lines covered are:

• 4.e3
• 4.c3
• 4.h3
• 4.c4 which becomes a normal Nimzo/Queen’s Indian, but nevertheless the authors devoted an entire chapter to it on the basis of giving the reader a complete repertoire!

The London Files Part IV: The London Orthodox System

The final part of the book covers the most typical London setups following 1.d4 d5. From here, the moves 2.Nf3, 2.Bf4, and 2.c3 are considered.

1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 c5

Black strikes in the center immediately, and the usual …Qb6 sortie is in the cards. From here we see:

• 3.e3 cxd4
• 3.c3 Qb6
• 3.dxc5 Nc6

It is surprisingly easy for White to end up with an uncomfortable pawn structure in some of these lines, or Black gets straightforward (attacking!) play.

1.d4 d5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Bf4 c5

From this position, the book considers a few of White’s options but 4.e3 is by far the main continuation and after 4…Nc6, the following moves and variations are thoroughly analyzed:

• 5.Nbd2
• 5.Nc3
• 5.Bb5
• 5.dxc5
• 5.Be2
• 5.c3

White gets their usual London setups in this Orthodox System, but Black too gets comfortable play with a few venomous lines too. You will at times be given more than one approach to choose from, according to your style – as we have seen in the other chapters too.

Overall, this book offers Black so many different options to combat the solid London System, and many lines will take your opponent out of their comfort zone. You can choose lines based on your style, what your opponent plays, or even just your mood!

Have any thoughts or questions? Let us know in the comments!

Don’t miss out on the special introductory offer at forwardchess.com.

Table of Contents

• Ruy Lopez Background
  • Name Origins
  • History
• Ruy Lopez Theory
  • Main lines
  • Books to Learn From
  • Game Examples

Ruy Lopez Background

Ruy Lopez Name Origins

The Ruy Lopez is named after Ruy López de Segura, a 16th Century Spanish Priest who published a book about chess called Libro del Ajedrez (considered to be one of the first published chess manuals), in which he studied and wrote about chess openings and particularly explored 3.Bb5. López was a well-known chess analyst and writer, and a strong player who traveled and successfully competed against the top players of his time. Although he did not invent the Ruy Lopez opening, he did analyze it and developed theory that is still used today.

Ruy Lopez History

It was only a few centuries later when the Ruy Lopez gained popularity and was employed by strong players. From Wilhelm Steinitz in the 1800s to Magnus Carlsen today, the Ruy Lopez is part of every great player’s repertoire at some point in their life – both as Black and White.

There are many different variations that follow from 3.Bb5, and one historically special one is the Berlin Defense with 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 Nf6, which was consistently used by Vladimir Kramnik in his 2000 World Chess Championship Match against Garry Kasparov. The Berlin Defense has since become one of the most popular variations in the Ruy Lopez.

Let’s take a look at a few other popular variations.

Ruy Lopez Theory

The Ruy Lopez leads to a variety of complex positions and has been a staple in chess for centuries due to its rich history and strategic possibilities. It leads to open and semi-open positions, providing both sides with opportunities to exploit weaknesses and demonstrate their understanding of pawn structures, piece coordination, and positional play.

White’s third move, 3.Bb5 aims to control the center and develop pieces efficiently, and sets up potential tactics for the future. Black’s main responses include 3…a6 (the Morphy Defense) or 3…Nf6 (the Berlin Defense). There are so many theorized mainlines and accompanying sidelines in the Ruy Lopez, some of which go up to 30 moves deep. Here are some popular lines:

Main Lines

3…Nf6 the Berlin Defense

The Berlin Defense is well known for its sturdiness, and often leads to an even and difficult “Berlin Endgame”. For this reason, it is often called the “Berlin Wall”. White usually castles, after which Black has two main responses:

• 4…Bc5 known as the Berlin Classical Variation
• 4…Nxe4 known as the Berlin Main Variation. Black does not hold on to the open, as White gets Re1 and plays on the vulnerable e-file.

3…a6 Morphy Defense

3…a6 is by far Black’s most popular third move, and it asks White’s Bishop where it wants to go. White’s two main options are 4.Bxc6 and 4.Ba4.

3…a6 4.Bxc6 the Exchange Variation

The Exchange Variation leads to an imbalanced position and dynamic play for both sides. Note that White does not win a free pawn with 5.Nxe5 as Black has 5…Qd4.

3…a6 4.Ba4

After 4.Ba4, the game can go in many different directions. Black must choose if they want to continue developing, solidify their e-pawn, or kick White’s Bishop away one more time.

The Closed Variation: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. O-O Be7

The Marshall Attack: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Be7 6.Re1 b5 7.Bb3 O-O 8.c3 d5

The Worral Attack: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Be7 6.Qe2

The Open Variation: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Nxe4

The Arkhangelsk Variation: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O b5 6.Bb3 Bb7

Ruy Lopez: Books to Learn From

The Modernized Ruy Lopez – Volume 1 – A Complete Repertoire for White

Author: Dariusz Swiercz

Publisher: Thinkers Publishing

Level: Intermediate

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The Arkhangelsk Ruy Lopez

Author: M. Shyam Sundar

Publisher: Chess Informant

Level: Advanced

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Opening Repertoire: The Ruy Lopez

Author: Joshua Doknjas

Publisher: Everyman Chess

Level: Intermediate

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The Ruy Lopez: Move by Move

Author: Neil McDonald

Publisher: Everyman Chess

Level: Intermediate

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Ruy Lopez: Game Examples

Kasparov vs Karpov 1990

Ruy Lopez Closed

Carlsen vs Anand 2014

Berlin Defense

Mattisson vs Rubinstein 1929

Ruy Lopez Exchange

Have any thoughts or questions? Let us know in the comments!

Table of Contents

• The Queen’s Gambit
  • Name Origins
  • History
• The Queen’s Gambit Accepted
  • Main lines
  • Books to Learn From
  • Game Examples

The Queen’s Gambit

The Queen’s Gambit opening chess is a chess opening, popularized way before the hit Netflix “Queen’s Gambit” series, where White offers a “sacrifice” of the c4-pawn in exchange for control of the center. 

The move order goes: 1.d4 d5 2.c4

Here, Black has two ways to respond;

1. Accept the Gambit with 2…dxc4
2. Decline the Gambit, with a variety of options such as:
   1. Defending the pawn with 2…e6 (We call this the Queen’s Gambit Declined)
   2. Defending the pawn with 2…c6 (This is called the Slav Defense)
   3. Gambit a pawn as well with 2…e5 (This crazy line is called the Albin CounterGambit)

There are of course many other lines and transpositions that occur after declining the gambit, these are just a few.

Queen’s Gambit: Name Origins

“Gambit” in chess lingo is given to openings that include a sacrifice in exchange for some other kind of advantage, such as initiative. Gambit openings include the sacrifice of a pawn, such is the case with the Queen’s Gambit. The first move to be played is usually 1.d4, the Queen’s Pawn, and the c4-pawn on the Queenside is offered as the gambit, which is where the opening’s name comes from. In contrast, the King’s Gambit starts with 1.e4 and offers the Kingside f-pawn as the gambit.

Queen’s Gambit: History

The opening has a long history and has been a popular choice for amateurs and World Champions alike. Old theory saw Black either decline the gambit or accept it and hold on to the pawn as tightly as possible. The 1886 World Championship Match between Wilhelm Steinitz and Johannes Zukertort shined a spotlight on the Queen’s Gambit as it was played in 9 out of 20 games, each time with Steinitz as Black. Steinitz would both decline and accept the c4-pawn grab, but interestingly, he also introduced the idea of not holding onto the pawn in the QGA but instead allowing White to recapture and be left with an isolated pawn. 

Here is an example from their match, which transposes into QGA as Black captures the c4-pawn:

Today we will look at what happens when Black captures the pawn with the Queen’s Gambit Accepted.

The Queen’s Gambit Accepted

As the name suggests, Black accepts White’s gambit by capturing the pawn on c4:

With this capture, Black wins material for the moment, and White gains control of the center. Black aims to exploit White’s central pawns in order to attain a long-term endgame advantage by weakening White’s pawn structure. Black sets the stage for a potential counterattack during the middlegame, particularly targeting the isolated pawn on d4 – as we saw in the Zuketort – Alekhine game.

Queen’s Gambit Accepted: Main lines

After 2…dxc4, White has quite a few options and there are a lot of chess books devoted to this repertoire. Let’s take a look at some of White’s 3rd moves:

3.Nf3

The most popular move here. White delays their play to recapture the pawn, and prevents …e5, therefore exerting more control in the center. Black’s most popular response is 3…Nf6 which White most popularly follows with 4.e3, attacking the c4-pawn. Here follows 4…e6 (activating the dark-squared bishop and preparing …c5) 5.Bxc4 c5 6.0-0 a6 known as the Classical Variation.

3.e4

White reinforces control in the center and opens up the bishop to capture on c4. A typical idea for both sides to know is what happens when Black aims to defend the pawn with …b5. Here White can attempt to break up Black’s queenside pawns with a4 and Nc3:

3.e3

Once again, White prepares to recapture on c4, but builds a healthy pawn chain at the same time. Black usually continues with 3…Nf6, but other exciting options such as 3…e5 are also possible.

Queen’s Gambit Accepted: Books to Learn From

1.d4 The Queen’s Gambit: Volume 1B

Author: Boris Avrukh

Publisher: Quality Chess

Level: Advanced

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The Queen’s Gambit Accepted

Author: Max Dlugy

Publisher: Russell Enterprises

Level: Advanced

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Understanding the Queen’s Gambit Accepted

Author: Alexander Delchev and Semko Semkov

Publisher: Chess Stars

Level: Intermediate

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Queen’s Gambit Accepted: Game Examples

Fischer – Spassky 1992

Kasparov – Gulko

The Queen’s Gambit Accepted has been played by numerous chess grandmasters and has a rich history in tournament and World Championship play. It offers both attacking and defensive chances for both sides, with complex strategical and tactical battles that require precise calculation and understanding of pawn structures.

Overall, it is a fascinating opening choice that can lead to exciting and challenging games for both players.