Themed Chess Sets

Chess used to be a very boring game but the advent of themed chess sets has revitalized the board game and brought it to many new players and fans. Collectors just love the variety of sets that are now available and many people who collect chess memorabilia cannot even play the game and only know a smattering of chess rules. Nonetheless, chess fans love chess pieces be they mini indoor sets used for travel or large outdoor sets that stand proudly on the front lawn.

How about a Lego chess set or a chess game that you can eat? A great way to get kids interested in chess is to allow them to eat the spoils of war, so to speak. If you buy some good quality white, milk and dark chocolate you will be able to create an edible chess feast.

Many TV programs have spin off themed chess sets. The Simpsons are a prime example but this themed set is from the famous computer game. Chess Super Mario is available for live play. 

Chess clubs usually used the definitive Staunton chess set and this is the set I recommend for anyone beginning to learn the game of kings (as it is called). The pieces are distinctive and if you invest in such as set, do opt for a 4" set. the 4 inch refers to the biggest chess piece which is the king. Another factor when considering a 'good' set is to ensure that the pieces are 'triple weighted'. This means that each piece has leaden weights in the base and this greatly aids stability and gives the chessmen a 'proper' tactile feel to them. A light weight set will continually topple over and cause annoyance.  

Slightly weirder is the 3 dimensional sets and the four player versions with the odd looking boards. Other themed sets follow certain historic wars and usually die cast metal (pewter) is used for the pieces which are often hand-painted. Everything from civil war chess sets to Star Wars chess is available.

These themed chess sets have encouraged many kids to take up the sport of chess, which is a great developmental tool and a fun way to keep your mind active.