Chess is definitely one of the oldest and most popular board games. The Olympics have their chess championship, and grandmasters are highly respected everywhere. Beyond that, chess continues to dominate as the classic board game for its universality. It presents fun and complex challenges!
The game has also proven highly adjustable, considering how much chess transforms from the 6th century Indian Chaturanga into the one we come to know and love today. For these reasons, we think that chess has the potential to be a unique and personal present.
We have narrowed our lists down to these 27 perfectly unique chess sets.
Table of Contents
Colorful and Unique Chess Sets for Kids
In a world dominated by screens, introducing kids to the magical realm of chess can be a game-changer. But we’re not talking about those drab, old-school chess sets. Dive into a universe where chess pieces burst with vibrant colors and whimsical designs tailored for the young and young at heart.
Ready to embark on a strategic journey that’s as visually delightful as it is intellectually stimulating? Let’s unveil these dazzling chess sets for kids!
1. Chess Set That Combines Fairy Tales
“Story Time Chess” brings a colorful twist to the classic game, enticing kids with vibrant characters and a matching storybook.
While the lively pieces make learning fun and engaging, some purists might miss the traditional chess aesthetics. But for a blend of fun and strategy, this set might just checkmate the rest!
2. Play Chess and Checkers in One Package
MOMA Two-in-One Chess & Checkers Set comes in a pretty colorful box that works as the game board.
Yes, you don’t need to choose between chess or checkers! The mix of simplistic design and primary color choice is sure to be a great eye-catcher. Kids everywhere would love this item.
3. Matryoshka Christmas Chess Set
Christmas is a magical holiday for children! Box the spirit of Christmas in AEVVV’s Christmas Chess Set.
Hand-painted and carved with birch wood, the chess pieces are both elegant and sturdy at the same time. Play it with your family or place it as a decoration. AEVVV’s Christmas set is a gift that can last for generations.
4. Wooden Cartoon Chess Set
The International Wooden Chessmen Set features the original classic chessboard color and the pink board.
The pieces come in blue or white for the original board and purple or pink for the pink one. Both come with a unique cartoon design that can also turn into checkers pieces. While the whimsical design will surely captivate imaginative youngsters who dream of kingdoms and adventures, traditionalists might yearn for the classic black and white pieces. Perfect for the little prince or princess who loves a mix of strategy and storytelling!
5. Transform your Tablets into Chessboard!
TACTO revolutionizes chess by combining the traditional game and an interactive AR tutorial app.
It includes strategy learning, moves prediction, and practice against AI. These unique chess sets come with two detachable frames and 12 figurines that kids can move across the tablet screen.
Fans’ Favorite Chess Sets
The world of chess is not just about strategy and checkmates; it’s also about artistic expression and individual taste. From ornate designs to fandom-inspired boards, the choices are as vast as the game’s history. Dive into our curated collection of fans’ favorite chess sets, where elegance meets passion.
Let the games begin, and may your chessboard reflect your unique style!
6. Spartan Warrior Chess Set
Reenact the legendary battle of ancient kingdoms with this Spartan Hoplite Chess Set. It is completed with King Leonidas, Queen Gorgo, and other Greece-style chessmen. Each chessman is crafted carefully with zinc alloy and plated with gold and silver.
7. Intricate Dragon Lair Chess Set
Fantasy nerds gather around! Make your own dragon army with CHH’s Dragon Chess Set.
These unique chess sets consist of a glass chess board that stands atop the elaborate diorama of a dragon tomb. Every chess piece is a different dragon warrior made of Polynesian base with a silver and bronze finish.
8. Wicked Wizard’s Chess Set
Visually introduced in the first Harry Potter film, every Hogwart nerd will be familiar with Wizard’s Chess. Although made of plastic, The Noble Collection’s HP Wizard Chess is surprisingly detailed. No wonder this set gets approval from Warner Brothers.
9. Limited Authentic Star Trek 3D Chess
Initially released in the 90s, Franklin Mint Star Trek Tridimensional Black and Clear Set is probably the best gift for a chess-loving Trekker. The 3D element elevates a chess game to another level. Imagine holding down a fort from the attack from the land, the sky, and the sea! Don’t stop to think now!
10. Luxurious Star Wars Collectible Chess Set
ST Dupont Haute Creation Star Wars Chess Set is not just a board game but a piece of luxurious art. The Jedi pieces are made of gold-plated crystals, and Siths ones are made of gold-plated jades. This item will surely make every Star Wars fan squeal with excitement.
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Fun and Housewarming Chess Sets
Chess, a game of strategy and wit, has never been this delightful! Beyond the classic wooden boards, lies a realm where fun meets functionality, perfect for brightening up any living space. Discover our handpicked selection of housewarming chess sets, each piece crafted to spark joy and conversation.
Ready to transform your game nights and cozy corners? Let’s begin!
11. Sugar and Spice Chess Set
TripleBJewellery’s Artisan Chess Sets will make a perfect addition to the corner of every new kitchen.
Behold a chess set that marries art with strategy! The vibrant sprinkle-filled pieces scream fun, perfect for the playful spirit, while the amber-hued team brings a touch of sophistication. It’s a delightful blend for those who appreciate the unexpected and yearn for a sprinkle of whimsy in their games.
12. Palatable Cheesy Chess
Backgammon Chess & Cheese Board is sure to brighten up your friend’s new home. This wooden cheese board works either as a chessboard on one surface or a backgammon board once flipped. Every set comes with unique chess-game pieces that double as cheese picks.
13. Playable Chess Wall Art
Vertical chess is a thing now, thanks to Wall Chess of Alabama! This item is incredible wooden wall art because it uses a combination of a birch plywood board and a solid oak box. The adorable chessmen are made in the shape of wooden cubes.
14. Picturesque Planter Chess Set
Everyone agrees the most popular housewarming gift is a pot of plants.
However, for the chess masters, Redrook3D’s Chess Set Succulents Planter is here! Each chess piece is a cute little planter. This chess set combines plants and chess in one adorable package. Personalize this unique chess set by adding your favorite plants from succulents, cacti, or other herbs.
15. Pretty Little Chess Box
Not just jewelry, Tiffany artisans are also skillful in crafting chess sets. Made of walnut wood, the box itself is already luxurious. The chess pieces are simplistic, carved of green amazonite and white howlite. These premium parts will make for a perfect generational gift.
Simple Chess Sets To Carry Around
In the vast world of chess, there’s a unique joy in the simple and portable. No more being tethered to the grandeur of a game room; these chess sets are ready to roam with you. Whether you’re a traveler, a park enthusiast, or someone who loves quick games at cafes, there’s a perfect pocket-sized battlefield awaiting.
Dive in, and discover the elegance of simplicity in our list of carry-along chess sets.
16. Precious Personalized Travel Set
Travel chess set can still retain its classy touch with TiposCreation’s Personalized Chess Board Game Set.
TiposCreation provides 6 choices of typeface and the option to include or exclude the engraving. This piece is a perfect retirement gift for older folks who love to explore the world.
17. Fit-in-Wallet Unique Chess Set
Behold the ultimate travel set Innovo’s Credit Card Chess Set, where minimalism meets functionality!
With its grid-like design and pop-out pieces, it’s perfect for on-the-go gamers, yet might challenge those seeking a traditional tactile experience. Ideal for modern enthusiasts and space-savers, this set combines innovative design with the timeless thrill of chess.
18. Roll Up Chess Set
Woodronic 3-in-1 Roll Up travel game set comes in a beautiful rolled-up leather case and cute sphere-shaped pellets. The leather board or case is flexible and can be used on any surface, even when your friends are camping.
19. Charming Chinese Chess Set
This antique-looking chess set employs unique Chinese figurines as its pieces.
It features complete and detailed dragon engravings on a red-and-black box. The design is travel-friendly with its compact foldable partitioned box and mold case for each chess piece.
20. Pocket Surprise Chess Set
Only 16 cmx16 cm when deployed, Pocket Chess Magnetic Chessman is the pinnacle of the portable chess set.
Outside, it looks like a regular leather cardholder. Inside, it is a surprisingly compact chessboard with magnetic pieces. With this mini travel set, playing chess is possible anywhere and anytime.
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21. Foldable Chess Board with Flat Magnetic Pieces
Portability is a priority for people who travel a lot! Now the WE Games chess set can also be stored inside your friend’s pocket!
Furthermore, the flat pieces design and the foldable mini-board will not take too much storage space. Your friends can tuck it in anywhere, making this chess set a thoughtful gift for travelers.
Best Chess Sets for Chess Masters
Finally, these 6 out-of-the-box unique chess sets are a rarity that will be perfect for those who enjoy chess with a twist. These game pieces are also ideal for people who take chess seriously!
Even if your friends are pro chess players, they will enjoy these items to get a new break from regular gems.
22. Majestic Minimalist Chessboard Set
Chessboard by Tarek Elkassouf is an elegant beauty. Elkassouf has managed to convey the universality of chess through its minimalist design.
Chessmen are 32 mechanically engraved metal bars. The board is thin and made from 4 optional materials: Carrara, Basalt, Travertino Rosso, and Travertino Classico. Together they make for a sleek chess board perfect for unique occasion gifts.
23. Smart Move Chess Board
No matter how far your chess lover friend moves away, with a pair of PHANTOM boards, you both can still play chess together. With the power of technology, PHANTOM pieces can move ONLY with the command of your voice.
24. Viking Chess Set
Although differently played than conventional chess, Tafl or traditional Viking Chess is probably a much older strategic game.
Brybelly presents this ancient wit-battle game on a 10.5 “x10.5” board. Go back in time, protect your king gallantly with 12 defender pieces or charge ahead instead with 24 attacker pieces.
25. Giant Brain Laser Chess Set
If Tafl is ancient chess, then Khet is its futuristic counterpart.
Laser Chess is another worth-to-mention nonconventional chess game. The goal is to protect the king from laser attacks by deflecting and changing the laser shots. However, introducing lasers into chess transforms the game rules a lot.
26. Out Of The Box Circular Chess Set
3 Man Chess may be a bulky chessboard with 3 cm in width and 48 cm in diameter. However, it compensates for playing chess with 3 players instead of 2. The circular board and moves are limited only to the brainy.
27. Chess Board Combined with Card Game
The No Stress Chess Board Game will be an epic present for your friends who prefer an unconventional chess game.
This chess set comes with a deck of cards that contains information on chess pieces. You and your friends will have to move your game pieces based on the card that you both draw. Instead of thinking about complicated strategy, the shuffled cards will determine the next moves.
Now that we have spilled our choices of unique chess sets, have you found the perfect one for the special ones? Or is it you who found your perfectly amazing chess set instead? It is time to go shopping for the universally loved board game!
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What makes a chess set “unique”?
A unique chess set typically deviates from the traditional Staunton design, incorporating thematic, artistic, or innovative elements. Whether hand-crafted or produced with avant-garde materials, these sets offer a fresh perspective on a classic game, turning every match into an experience.
How do I care for my unique chess set?
Care largely depends on the materials of your set. For instance, wooden sets benefit from occasional polishing, while metal ones might need anti-tarnish treatments. Always store in a dry place, and for particularly intricate sets, consider a display case to protect from dust.
How do I choose the right size chess set?
Consider where you’ll play most often. For home use, a medium-sized set is ideal. Tournament play has specific size requirements, usually a board with 2.25-inch squares. Ensure the pieces’ base diameter is 75-85% of the square size for a comfortable fit.
Do unique chess sets come in different materials?
Absolutely! From glass, wood, metal to even 3D printed materials, unique sets explore a wide range of artistic expressions, making each game visually delightful.
Where can you buy unique chess sets?
Apart from specialized chess shops, many online platforms, artisanal craft fairs, and even antique stores offer a range of unique chess sets to cater to different tastes and budgets. Always check reviews or ask for recommendations.