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London System
Beginnerwhite repertoire·5 parts
A simple, reliable system for White. You build a small, sturdy pawn wall and bring the dark-squared bishop out before locking the centre, so it stays active. Best of all, you set up almost the same way against anything — very little theory to memorise.
Main idea
Once your pieces are out, plant a knight on e5 in the middle of the board, then bring your queen and a rook over toward Black's king to attack.
If Black plays too passively, break the centre open with e4 instead.
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Start
Key Strategic Ideas
First, the six ideas behind every London line. The London is a system: the same setup works against almost anything Black does, which is exactly why it's so popular at club level.