About This Game
In this encounter L McShane had the white pieces against Magnus Carlsen at 7th Mikhail Tal Memorial in 2012. It was played in round 9. The game dates from the modern computer-influenced era.
From Ruy Lopez (C85) the players entered classical development and rapid piece play. Such positions test classical principles: development, centre, king safety.
Lasting 40 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.
When the dust settled, Magnus Carlsen won with the black 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 L McShane (White) and Magnus Carlsen (Black), at 7th Mikhail Tal Memorial in 2012.
What opening was played?
The game used Ruy Lopez (ECO code C85). Classical development and rapid piece play.
What was the result?
Magnus Carlsen won with the black pieces.
How long was the game?
The game lasted 40 moves (80 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 Ruy Lopez collection, Magnus Carlsen's complete game archive, and thousands more grandmaster games in the RamaChess archive.