Accelerated London System
The Accelerated London System develops the bishop to f4 immediately, before Black has committed to a specific pawn structure. This move order offers maximum flexibility and can transpose to various London setups while avoiding some of Black's most challenging defenses.
ECO Code
A46
Difficulty
Beginner to Advanced
Style
Flexible/Universal
Key Players
Carlsen, Rapport, Jobava
Move Order Advantages
- Flexibility: Avoid committing to specific pawn structures early
- Universal application: Works against any Black setup
- Prevents defenses: Some anti-London setups are avoided
- Early development: Bishop is active from move 2
- Transposition options: Can reach various London formations
Main Continuations
vs ...e6
Transposes to standard London structures with favorable move order for White.
vs ...d5
Solid central setup maintaining the bishop and supporting the center.
vs ...g6
Aggressive response to King's Indian setups with central expansion.
Strategic Benefits
The Accelerated London maximizes the bishop's early activity while keeping maximum options open. By developing Bf4 before committing to other moves, White maintains flexibility in pawn structure and piece development while ensuring the bishop reaches its ideal square.
Black's Response Options
Main Defensive Setups
- Classical development: ...e6, ...d5, solid structure
- King's Indian setup: ...g6, ...Bg7, fianchetto development
- Central challenge: ...d5, ...c5, immediate activity
- Flexible approach: ...e6, ...Be7, keeping options open
- Sharp lines: ...c5, ...Qb6 for tactical complications
Typical Development Plans
Standard Formation
Classical London setup with harmonious piece development and solid structure.
Aggressive Setup
More ambitious approach aiming for central control and kingside attack.
Flexible Approach
Maintain options and adapt the setup based on Black's chosen defense.
Key Considerations
For White: Don't rush to commit to specific structures. Observe Black's setup first and choose the most appropriate continuation.
For Black: Try to reach comfortable defensive setups quickly. The early Bf4 gives White more options.
Modern Theory
The Accelerated London has gained popularity in modern chess due to its flexibility and universal applicability. Top players appreciate its ability to reach good positions against any defense while avoiding heavy theoretical preparation.
Related Systems
Master the Accelerated London
Learn flexible opening play and how to adapt your setup to any Black defense.
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