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The Geekiest Chess Sets [2024]
So, we recently covered The Queen’s Gambit, the hottest (only?) chess Netflix series of recent years. We expressed confidence, contrary to other assumptions, that chess popularity is alive and well within geek culture; we just don’t talk about it as much.
Well, that’s certainly changed! The show has created buzz around the gamer community we haven’t seen for a board game since Google DeepMind cracked Go.
For those of you just picking up renewed interest in the most classic board game ever invented, you’re in fantastic luck.
If you’re in the market for a chess set, you don’t have to settle for the standard old boring set design. Pay homage to your geeky roots while you plot those brilliant plays on these exotic themed chess sets.
Super Mario Chess Set
Power up your chess game with this Super Mario-inspired set! Who said chess couldn’t be as colorful as a Rainbow Road race track?
Each piece is a charming nod to the iconic characters we’ve all jumped, dashed, and (sometimes) frustratingly fell into pits with.
From our favorite plumber brothers, Mario and Luigi, to the always-in-distress Princess Peach, and the ever-hungry Yoshi, they’re all here and ready to jump into action.
And those mushroom pawns? Adorable.
Now, as for Team Koopa and his band of mischievous minions… well, if you can name them all without a second glance, hats off to you!
But remember, it’s not just about names; it’s about the game. If the idea of Bowser trying to checkmate Mario doesn’t bring a smile to your face, you might just be playing the wrong game!
Lord of the Rings Basic Chess Set
Ever wanted to command the power of the One Ring in a game of chess? Now’s your chance. Dive deep into Middle Earth with this “Battle for Middle Earth” chess set. And let’s be clear – this isn’t your grandma’s chess set (unless she’s a Tolkien fan, then maybe it is).
This set brings the epic tales of bravery, treachery, and unexpected journeys right to your living room. As you play, you can’t help but imagine Gandalf’s wise strategizing or Frodo’s internal struggle.
And, if you’ve ever wanted to pit Aragorn against Sauron without the world ending, here’s your shot. The detailed craftsmanship of each piece, from Saruman’s menacing gaze to Galadriel’s
ethereal beauty, is a testament to the magic of Tolkien’s world. And let’s not forget the board itself, which feels like it was carved straight out of the heart of the Shire.
As you make each move, you’re not just playing chess; you’re weaving your own tale in the grand tapestry of Middle Earth’s legends.
So, whether you’re a seasoned chess veteran or just a hobbit looking for some fun, this set is your gateway to countless hours of enjoyment and perhaps a few “my precious” moments.
Batman Chess Set (Dark Knight vs Joker)
Gotham City meets the 64 squares! Dive deep into the shadows of Gotham with this Batman-themed chess set.
Now, we all know Batman’s got the brains (and the brawn), but who knew he was a chess enthusiast?
This set perfectly captures the mental battles between Batman and the Joker, with every move echoing their iconic confrontations.
The design? Pure Gotham – dark, gritty, and always with a twist.
The pieces make you feel like you’re right in the middle of another of Joker’s devious plots, with Batman meticulously planning his next move.
And while we’ve seen Batman tackle life-sized chess challenges (shoutout to that animated series episode), this is your chance to strategize like the Dark Knight. Checkmate, Joker!
Star Wars Chess Set
May the Force be with your Queen’s Gambit! Venturing into a galaxy far, far away, this Star Wars chess set is the stuff of legends.
With so many sets out there (trust us, we looked), this one strikes the perfect balance between detail and affordability.
Every piece, from the noble Jedi to the menacing Sith, is crafted with care, making each game feel like an epic space battle.
Picture Han Solo and Boba Fett in a tense standoff, or Jedi and Sith locked in a fierce duel, lightsabers at the ready.
Whether you’re a Padawan just learning the ropes or a Jedi Master of chess, this set promises intergalactic fun.
And remember, in this game, it’s not about the dark or light side; it’s about playing both sides to your advantage!
Marvel Collector’s Chess Set
Ever thought what would happen if the heroes and villains of the Marvel Cinematic Universe decided to settle their differences over a game of chess instead of epic battles?
Well, wonder no more! With the Marvel Collector’s Chess Set, you can command the likes of Iron Man and Captain America or plot devious strategies as Thanos and Loki.
Team S.H.I.E.L.D versus Team Hydra on a chessboard – it’s the crossover event you never knew you needed!
And while the character lineup might raise a few eyebrows (Venom and Spider-Man on opposing sides? Classic.), the design is undeniably Marvel. Perfect for MCU aficionados, comic book geeks, and chess enthusiasts alike. Excelsior!
Harry Potter Wizard Chess Set
Alohomora! Unlock magical gameplay with the Harry Potter Wizard Chess Set. Remember that intense chess scene from “The Philosopher’s Stone”?
This set is just like that, minus the life-threatening situations (and the moving pieces, but let’s not get bogged down in details).
Every piece captures the enchantment of the Wizarding World, and while they might not take each other out in dramatic fashion, the strategy and suspense are all real.
Sure, there are pricier, fancier sets out there, but why break Gringotts when you can have just as much magical fun for less?
Whether you’re a Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, or Slytherin, this set is perfect for every Potterhead looking for a magical duel of wits.
The Lord of The Rings Collector’s Chess Set by The Noble Collection
$699.99 might seem like a princely sum for a chess set, but wait till you feast your eyes on this masterpiece!
Straight from The Noble Collection, this isn’t just any LOTR-themed chess set; it’s a collector’s dream come true. Each of the 32 pieces is a meticulously crafted miniature pewter sculpture, representing the iconic cast members.
And we’re not talking about vague resemblances here; every piece is so lifelike that they’ve been personally approved by the actors themselves.
Fancy making a move with a Gandalf so realistic, Sir Ian McKellen gave his nod of approval? This is where the magic happens.
But the pièce de résistance has to be the board. Mounted below the playing surface is an ancient map of Middle-earth, ensuring every game feels like an epic journey across this legendary land. The base also boasts images from the iconic film, capturing memorable characters and scenes, making every glance a trip down memory lane.
Measuring a generous 15″ by 15″, this board isn’t just for playing; it’s a statement piece. And for those worried about authenticity, rest assured – this set is officially authorized by Warner Brothers. So whether you’re a die-hard Tolkien fan, a chess enthusiast, or both, this set is the One Chess Set to rule them all!
Game of Thrones Chess Set
Winter is coming, and so is your next move. Dive into the intricate world of Westeros with this Game of Thrones chess set.
Every corner of the Seven Kingdoms, from the icy North to the sun-soaked Dorne, is represented on this board.
Each piece, meticulously designed, captures the essence and grandeur of the characters we’ve come to love (and sometimes loathe).
Can you channel the cunning of Tyrion in your strategies or the bravery of Arya Stark in the face of danger? With kings, queens, and knights taking the forms of Starks, Lannisters, Targaryens, and more, you’re not just playing a game; you’re reliving the most iconic moments of the series.
The board itself, reminiscent of the Iron Throne, might not be forged from the swords of fallen enemies, but it carries the weight and honor of the realm.
So, rally your bannermen, call upon your allies, and prepare to engage in a game where every move could lead to power, betrayal, or maybe just a simple checkmate. For in the game of thrones, as in chess, strategy is the key to survival.
Pirates of the Caribbean Chess Set
Avast ye! If you’ve ever dreamed of commanding a crew of buccaneers or navigating treacherous waters in search of buried treasure, then this chess set is your vessel. Straight from the world of Captain Jack Sparrow, the Pirates of the Caribbean chess set transports players to the heart of the Caribbean seas.
Every piece is intricately designed, echoing the charm and mischief of the beloved characters.
Fancy leading a battalion with the charismatic Captain Jack or plotting a strategic ambush with the formidable Captain Barbossa? Every game is a battle of wits amidst storms, shipwrecks, and the ever-elusive treasure map.
The board itself feels like a map of the treacherous Caribbean waters, complete with hidden coves and notorious pirate hangouts.
And just like in the movies, one wrong move could lead to mutiny or a date with Davy Jones’ locker.
Perfect for sea dogs and landlubbers alike, this set is a treasure chest of fun, strategy, and memories of epic sea battles and legendary pirate tales. So, hoist the main sail, draw your swords, and embark on a game that promises as many twists and turns as Jack Sparrow’s adventures!
Sherlock Holmes Board Pieces
Elementary, my dear chess player! Introducing the Sherlock Holmes Chess Set, where the game of kings meets the king of detectives. This set is not just about strategy; it’s a journey through the fog-laden streets of Victorian London, where every move brings you closer to solving the most intricate mysteries.
At the helm is the legendary detective himself, Sherlock Holmes, standing tall as the King. But every Holmes needs his Moriarty, and in this game, the notorious Professor Moriarty stands opposing, plotting moves as devious as his schemes in the tales. And who could overlook the eerie presence of the Hound of the Baskervilles as the Knight? One can almost hear its ghostly howl with every leap across the board.
But fear not, for Holmes is not alone. By his side, as ever, is the trusty Dr. Watson, ready to defend and strategize. The board is alive with characters from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s timeless stories: the ever-present Mrs. Hudson, the diligent Inspector Lestrade, the enigmatic Irene Adler, and the dangerous Colonel Moran. Each piece, inspired by the iconic illustrations from the Strand Magazine, feels like a piece of literary history.
Crafted from Polyresin, a unique blend of crushed stone and plastic, these chessmen offer the elegance of stone with the resilience of modern materials. The result? A set that feels weighty and substantial, yet is built to withstand the test of time (and many, many games).
So, whether you’re a Sherlock aficionado, a chess enthusiast, or both, this set promises hours of intrigue, strategy, and admiration. After all, when you have eliminated the checkers, whatever remains, however improbable, must be chess.
Universal Monsters Chess Set
Step into a world where the silver screen’s most iconic monsters come alive… on a chessboard! Introducing the Universal Studios Monsters Chess Set. This isn’t just any game; it’s a trip down the cobblestone streets of classic horror cinema. The board echoes the misty landscapes and gothic castles that these legendary monsters called home.
Each piece is an homage to the titans of terror: from the lumbering Frankenstein Monster to the charismatic Count Dracula. And who could forget the enigmatic Bride of Frankenstein or the hauntingly tragic Phantom of the Opera? They’re all here, meticulously crafted from heavy resin that ensures every move feels weighted with cinematic history.
But wait, there’s more! The pawns are no mere foot soldiers; they’re tombstones and canopic jars, grounding you further in the eerie ambiance of classic monster films. And the rooks? Dr. Frankenstein’s lab and ancient pyramids, of course! It’s clear; every piece has been thoughtfully designed to transport players to the golden age of horror.
This set is not just a collector’s dream but a nostalgic journey. As you play, you’ll almost hear the haunting strains of a pipe organ or the distant howl of the Wolfman. It’s a tribute to the times when Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, and the Chaney dynasty ruled the silver screen and made us all check under our beds at night.
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic horror or just looking for a unique game night experience, this chess set is a monstrous delight. A vintage collectible that’s as sturdy as it is spooky. And while the set itself remains pristine and untouched, the box has tales of its own, showing minor signs of its storied past.
Dare to play a game? But remember, in this version of chess, it’s not just about kings and queens; it’s about monsters and legends.
Bonus Section : If you like The Queen’s Gambit you might also like…
Searching for Bobby Fischer (1993) – Has a great performance by a well-cast Ben Kingsley. Not at all realistic to the real life Bobby Fischer, but a nice drama about a young chess prodigy who struggles with his own fame, competitive spirit, and need to balance life. It’s almost a companion piece to The Queen’s Gambit already.
The Seventh Seal (1957) – Probably the most famous use of chess in cinema, and certainly one of the first and most innovative. Playing chess against Death Himself raises the stakes just a teeny bit, with the Black Plague setting fitting in with our current pandemic times.
Blade Runner (1982) – Even though it’s a minor part of the story, there is the remote chess game ongoing between Tyrell and Sebastian, which even becomes a minor plot device. The game is a replica of a real-life international tournament that took place in 1851, called “the Immortal Game.” Even though this smacks perfectly with Blade Runner‘s themes, the producers insist this was an accident.
Black Butler (anime series) – The show uses many chess motifs for metaphors of character’s interplay, even if nobody sits down to an actual game. The manga illustrates conflict between characters with the occasional chess visual as well, just for chuckles.
Through the Looking-Glass (novel) – Nobody seems to remember this now, but Lewis Carroll wrote a sequel to Alice in Wonderland and something like half the book takes place in a chess-themed dream. Nowadays, people get passages from the two mixed up, even Disney. For instance, Tweedledum and Tweedledee were never in Alice in Wonderland, they were in the Looking Glass.
Finally, out of the blue, I’ll just mention that the U.S. Army’s PSYOPS division features a chess piece on their insignia and coat of arms. The reason behind this motif is left as an exercise for the reader.
