The LEGO Group secured its iconic "binding brick" design with a patent in 1958—a milestone that laid the foundation for decades of creative play. Yet, it took nearly half a century before LEGO introduced its first official chess set in 2005. As someone deeply immersed in the world of LEGO, this revelation was unexpected. At first glance, a LEGO chess set seems like an obvious product—simple, engaging, and widely appealing to all ages.

However, back in 2005, LEGO’s primary audience was children. The brand didn’t begin to seriously engage adult fans until around 2007. And the concept of incorporating brick-built décor into everyday living spaces—an idea now known as “LEGO lifestyle branding”—wasn’t fully realized until approximately 2020.

What feels natural today was groundbreaking at the time. In 2005, when the first LEGO Chess Set launched, there were no established expectations for what a LEGO board game should be. Unlike today’s sophisticated builds designed for display and function, earlier sets were primarily themed miniatures intended for imaginative play rather than realistic replication.

Chronological List of All LEGO Chess Sets

To date, LEGO has released 12 unique chess sets, each reflecting the evolving identity of the brand over two decades. Only one remains available for purchase in 2025. If you're looking for alternatives beyond LEGO, feel free to explore our guide to the best overall chess sets.

1. Knights’ Kingdom Chess Set – Discontinued

• Set Number: #851499
• Release Year: 2005
• Piece Count: 80
• Dimensions: 13.5” x 12.5”
• Price: $49.99

This inaugural set was part of the Knight's Kingdom line, expanding upon the popular Castle series. It featured two opposing armies—the Shadow Knights under Vladek and the noble Morcia led by King Matthias. Each side included 24 detailed minifigures equipped with armor and shields, offering a thematic twist on traditional chess pieces.

2. Vikings Chess Set – Discontinued

• Set Number: #851861
• Release Year: 2006
• Piece Count: 60
• Dimensions: 12.5” x 12.5”
• Price: $49.99

Following the success of the previous year’s set, this Viking-themed edition offered a similar structure but with horned helmets and weaponry such as axes and spears. The 24 minifigures added visual flair while maintaining the core gameplay mechanics.

3. Castle Chess Set – Discontinued

• Set Number: #852001
• Release Year: 2007
• Piece Count: 162
• Dimensions: 13.5” x 12.5”
• Price: $49.99

A more generic take on the castle theme, this set contrasted the Crown Knights with an undead skeleton army. Notably, the Grim Reaper bishops stood out with their massive scythes, adding a dramatic flair to the bishop pieces.

4. Giant Chess Set – Discontinued

• Set Number: #852293
• Release Year: 2008
• Piece Count: 2292
• Dimensions: 22.5” x 25”
• Price: $199.99

By far the most ambitious chess set ever created by LEGO, this oversized build features a smooth, elegant board and highly detailed pieces. Highlights include wizard bishops, mounted knights, and fortress-like rooks. Four miniature scenes—Skeleton Realm, Troll Realm, Dwarf Realm, and Castle Realm—add extra depth to the battlefield.

5. Pirates Chess Set – Discontinued

• Set Number: #852751
• Release Year: 2009
• Piece Count: 126
• Dimensions: 12.5” x 12.5”
• Price: $49.99

Pitting Royal Navy officers against eccentric pirates, this set brought variety and humor to the table. Each pirate pawn had a distinct costume and accessory, and the knight piece was a knife-wielding monkey—adding chaotic charm to the classic game.

6. Multi Game Pack 9-in-1 – Discontinued

• Set Number: #852676
• Release Year: 2009
• Piece Count: 81
• Dimensions: 10” x 6.5”
• Price: $24.99

Designed for portability, this compact set allowed players to enjoy nine different games including Chess, Checkers, Ludo, and Solitaire. Perfect for travel or small spaces, it emphasized versatility over grandeur.

7. Kingdoms Chess Set – Discontinued

• Set Number: #853373
• Release Year: 2012
• Piece Count: 201
• Dimensions: 13.5” x 13.5”
• Price: $49.99

Featuring armies of dragons and lions, this set focused more on display than play. It lacked a storage case and was built for aesthetic appreciation, marking a shift toward LEGO sets designed for collectors and decorators rather than just builders.

8. Pirates Chess Set #2 – Discontinued