About This Game
In this encounter Magnus Carlsen had the white pieces against L McShane at 7th Tal Mem Blitz in 2012. It was played in round 1. The game dates from the modern computer-influenced era.
Play followed Modern Defense (B06) — sharp, double-edged play. These lines often lead to opposite-side castling and a race to attack.
Lasting 26 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, Magnus Carlsen won with the white pieces. 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 L McShane (Black), at 7th Tal Mem Blitz in 2012.
What opening was played?
The game used Modern Defense (ECO code B06). Sharp, double-edged play.
What was the result?
Magnus Carlsen won with the white pieces.
How long was the game?
The game lasted 26 moves (51 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 Modern Defense collection, Magnus Carlsen's complete game archive, and thousands more grandmaster games in the RamaChess archive.