Elisabeth Paehtz Explains the Classical London System in Depth

In the new ChessBase video course “Mastering the London System”, Grandmaster Elisabeth Paehtz takes on one of the most popular openings for White in recent years, presenting it through its classical approach. At the heart of the course is the setup based on an early Bf4. From the very beginning, Paehtz explains why this move order matters, showing that the classical London is not merely a solid system, but can also become a highly ambitious and dynamic weapon when handled with the right plans.

One of the most striking aspects of the series is its clear demonstration that not all London Systems are the same. Paehtz emphasizes the differences between the Neo London and the classical London, systematically examining the pawn structures, middlegame plans, and critical battlegrounds that arise from the early-Bf4 setup. Black’s early ...c5 counterplay, the annoying ...Qb6 ideas, tactical possibilities involving ...Qxb2, and transitions into Caro-Kann-like structures are among the practically important themes covered in the course. As a result, the viewer does not simply memorize moves, but learns which plans matter most in each structure.

Paehtz also gives comprehensive coverage to Black’s most modern and frequently used defensive setups. Contemporary ...Bf5 lines, the increasingly popular ...Nh5 plans, Queen’s Gambit Declined-type structures, and move-order subtleties that directly shape the character of the opening are all presented within a clear framework. This approach is especially valuable for tournament players, because although the London System is often seen as an “easy-to-play” opening, success at a higher level requires a proper understanding of central tension, piece manoeuvres, and transitional positions.

In the later part of the course, all of this material is brought together through an explanation of the relationship between the classical London and the Neo London. Referring back to her previous work, Paehtz shows how the two approaches complement each other, thereby offering White a more fully integrated repertoire. In the end, this course stands out as a strong entry point for players new to the London System and as a modern, comprehensive, and practical reference for more experienced competitors looking to deepen their repertoire. It is also a timely reminder of just how flexible and dangerous a well-understood London System can be, especially in rapid and classical tournament play.