The 1.d4 Opening Series: The London System

Hey everyone! I'm here for a lengthy series of 1.d4 Openings, starting with the London System. It might bug you but I know a few tricks for white if you're planning to play London style.

First things first, this is the setup of the London:

Apparently, there are more than 1 ways to get the London System. So if you're not wanting to play the London, then try not to and don't make the moves that could turn the game into the London.

In my opinion, the London can be fun to play but yet tricky at the same time. I've found the London fascinating (you can disagree in the comments if you'd like) so I've tried to play more about it. 

First things first, you should know the setup of the London:

Next, here are some ways that white could turn the London into their own hands.

1. If black wants to trade dark squared bishops...

Decline the trade and retreat the bishop to the g3 square. Why you ask? So, let's say black castled kingside and black wanted to trade bishops. Decline and retreat to g3. If black then were to take, you have to do hxg3 because it opens the h-file for the rook on h1! It could be a weapon in the future and put you in a winning position.

In the position above, there is a knight on f6 guarding the h7 square so don't just assume it's not there. Otherwise, you're gonna do beserk and you're gonna be like "Take that! I've won!" In reality, you forgot about the knight and yeah. You know what happens.

2. Create a "pyramid" or "triangle" starting with e3.

The move e3 anticipates c5 or Nc6, a challenging move for white to conquer with the London System as the c-pawn is a flank pawn fighting for the center or with Nc6, preparing Nb4 before playing something like Nd2. A position like this:

Many positions can follow after this position since black could try to push the e-pawn, which I will probably make a part 2 of the London System. I don't have time to put both parts in. It would be hella stressful.

That's all for this blog! There's going to be a part 2, like I said. It should come out after a month this blog's release max. If there are any mistakes or things that don't make sense, please tell me in the comments. Greatly appreciated. Just a few things before you go:

• Share this to your friends if you like!
• Follow me and keep notifs on for future posts
• Friend me! I'll gladly accept them all
• Tell me a 1. d4 opening that you'd like me to review for you
• And try out the London if you can!

Before I head off... I might want to do a blog collab! I'll just ask a few people a few questions and their experience about an opening they're strong in. For example, King's Indian Defense or Reti . If you'd like to collab, please PM me and hopefully, looking forward to partnering together!

So that's all today! Keep an eye out for part 2 and have a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!! 🎄❄

@ryanchen100