About This Game
A middlegame battle in which Magnus Carlsen was paired against E Bareev at WCC in 2005. The game dates from the modern computer-influenced era.
Play followed French Defense (C11) — classical development and rapid piece play. Such positions test classical principles: development, centre, king safety.
Lasting 35 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.
Replaying a complete grandmaster game shows not just the moves, but the order in which plans appear and where the balance finally tips.
After the contest, the game was drawn between Magnus Carlsen and E Bareev. Step through the moves on the interactive board above and try the position trainer to sharpen your own play.
Frequently asked questions
Who played this game?
This game was played between Magnus Carlsen (White) and E Bareev (Black), at WCC in 2005.
What opening was played?
The game used French Defense (ECO code C11). Classical development and rapid piece play.
What was the result?
The game was drawn between Magnus Carlsen and E Bareev.
How long was the game?
The game lasted 35 moves (69 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 French Defense collection, Magnus Carlsen's complete game archive, and thousands more grandmaster games in the RamaChess archive.