About This Game
This middlegame battle sees Magnus Carlsen take on R Ponomariov at VI World Blitz in 2010. The game dates from the modern computer-influenced era.
Play followed French Defense (C05) — classical development and rapid piece play. Such positions test classical principles: development, centre, king safety.
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.
After the contest, Magnus Carlsen won with the white pieces. 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 R Ponomariov (Black), at VI World Blitz in 2010.
What opening was played?
The game used French Defense (ECO code C05). Classical development and rapid piece play.
What was the result?
Magnus Carlsen won with the white pieces.
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 French Defense collection, Magnus Carlsen's complete game archive, and thousands more grandmaster games in the RamaChess archive.