About This Game
A middlegame battle in which Magnus Carlsen was paired against S Kristjansson at Classics GM in 2003. It was played in round 10. The game dates from the modern computer-influenced era.
Play followed Queen's Indian Defense (E15) — a strategic battle of structure and activity. In these systems both sides manoeuvre carefully before committing.
Lasting 23 moves, the game was settled in the middlegame, where piece activity, pawn breaks and king safety all collide.
Magnus Carlsen is one of the grandmasters featured in the RamaChess archive, where you can browse their complete game collection, favourite openings and notable wins.
Games like this are useful at every level: opening principles for beginners, middlegame plans for club players, fine technique for experts.
When the dust settled, the game was drawn between Magnus Carlsen and S Kristjansson. Use the board above to replay every move, switch to the analyser for engine evaluation, or open Practice mode to test your own ideas.
Frequently asked questions
Who played this game?
This game was played between Magnus Carlsen (White) and S Kristjansson (Black), at Classics GM in 2003.
What opening was played?
The game used Queen's Indian Defense (ECO code E15). A strategic battle of structure and activity.
What was the result?
The game was drawn between Magnus Carlsen and S Kristjansson.
How long was the game?
The game lasted 23 moves (46 plies).
Can I replay this game move by move?
Yes. Use the interactive board on this page to step through every move, or open the analyser and Practice mode.
Where can I find more games like this?
Browse the full Queen's Indian Defense collection, Magnus Carlsen's complete game archive, and thousands more grandmaster games in the RamaChess archive.