Openings Database
London System
A flexible White system based on Bf4, Nf3, and a solid structure, with plans that change according to Black's setup.
Reference line
1. d4 d5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Bf4
Position after the reference line
Key ideas
- Develop the bishop before e3 can restrict it.
- Build with c3 and e3, then develop Nbd2 and Bd3.
- Choose an e4 or c4 break when the position allows it.
Typical plan
Complete the setup efficiently, then use the appropriate central break instead of playing on autopilot.
Watch for
Repeating the same setup against every response can give Black an easy center or a quick ...c5 break.
Opening names, ECO codes, and reference lines are aligned with the curated Lichess chess-openings dataset. Plans are concise instructional guidance, not game-result statistics.