Magnus Carlsen vs Vladimir Kramnik, Tal Memorial Blitz 2008
Slav Defense (D17) · ½-½ (Draw) · 34 moves · Round 23 · 30 August 2008
About This Game
Game summary
- WhiteMagnus Carlsen
- BlackVladimir Kramnik
- Result½-½ · Draw
- EventTal Memorial Blitz 2008
- Round23
- Date30 August 2008
- OpeningSlav Defense (D17)
- Length34 moves
- Type of eventBlitz and bullet
This is game 12 of 72 between Magnus Carlsen and Vladimir Kramnik in the Rama Chess database (2007–2024). In all their games Carlsen leads 27–13 with 32 draws.
Previous game: Kramnik vs Carlsen, 1-0 (Tal Memorial Blitz, 2008).
Next game: Carlsen vs Kramnik, 0-1 (18th Amber Blindfold, 2009).
The moves of Magnus Carlsen vs Vladimir Kramnik, Tal Memorial Blitz 2008
A middlegame battle in which Magnus Carlsen was paired against Vladimir Kramnik at Tal Memorial Blitz in 2008. It was played in round 23. The game dates from the modern computer-influenced era.
The game opened with Slav Defense (D17), a fight over the centre. Here the struggle often turns on the central pawns and minor-piece play.
Lasting 34 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.
Working through a full game like this trains pattern recognition — the more you study, the faster you spot familiar ideas in your own play.
In the end, the game was drawn between Magnus Carlsen and Vladimir Kramnik. Step through the moves on the interactive board above and try the position trainer to sharpen your own play.
Frequently asked questions
What is the head-to-head record of Magnus Carlsen and Vladimir Kramnik?
In the 72 games between them in our database (2007 to 2024) Carlsen leads 27–13 with 32 draws. This game is number 12 of 72.
Where and when was Magnus Carlsen vs Vladimir Kramnik played?
At the Tal Memorial Blitz, round 23, on 30 August 2008.
Who played this game?
This game was played between Magnus Carlsen (White) and Vladimir Kramnik (Black), at Tal Memorial Blitz in 2008.
What opening was played?
The game used Slav Defense (ECO code D17). A fight over the centre.
What was the result?
The game was drawn between Magnus Carlsen and Vladimir Kramnik.
How long was the game?
The game lasted 34 moves (67 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 Slav Defense collection, Magnus Carlsen's complete game archive, and thousands more grandmaster games in the RamaChess archive.