LEGO patented its signature "binding brick" in 1958, but it wasn't until nearly 50 years later, in 2005, that LEGO released its first official chess build. This fact was a surprise to me, even as someone who spends a significant amount of time exploring and learning about LEGO. The delay in introducing a LEGO Chess set seemed puzzling, considering its potential appeal to a broad audience.
In 2005, LEGO's primary focus was on children, and it wasn't until 2007 that the company began catering more to its adult fanbase. The concept of LEGO lifestyle branding, where brick-built items blend seamlessly into everyday living spaces, didn't gain momentum until around 2020. What we now consider commonplace in 2025 was revolutionary back in 2005 when the first LEGO chess set was introduced. Prior to that, most LEGO builds were miniature playsets rather than replicas of real-world objects.
Below is a comprehensive list of all LEGO Chess Sets released to date, ordered by their release. There have been 12 sets in total, with only one currently available for purchase in 2025. For those interested in other chess sets, you might want to explore our guide to the best overall chess sets.
All LEGO Chess Sets In Order of Release
1. Knights’ Kingdom Chess Set - Retired
Set: #851499
Release Date: 2005
Piece Count: 80
Dimensions: 13.5 inches long, 12.5 inches wide
Price: $49.99
The inaugural LEGO chess set belonged to the Knight's Kingdom theme, an extension of the LEGO Castle line. It showcased a battle between the Shadow Knights, led by the villainous sorcerer Vladek, and the Kingdom of Morcia, commanded by King Matthias. The set came with 24 intricately designed minifigures, complete with detailed armor and unique shields.
2. Vikings Chess Set - Retired
Set: #851861
Release Date: 2006
Piece Count: 60
Dimensions: 12.5 inches long, 12.5 inches wide
Price: $49.99
Similar to the previous year's Knights' Kingdom set, the Vikings Chess Set included 24 minifigures dressed in iconic horned helmets and equipped with spears and axes.
3. Castle Chess Set - Retired
Set: #852001
Release Date: 2007
Piece Count: 162
Dimensions: 13.5 inches long, 12.5 inches wide
Price: $49.99
This Castle-themed set featured a generic battle between crown knights and an army of skeletons. A highlight was the Grim Reaper bishops, wielding large scythes.
4. Giant Chess Set - Retired
Set: #852293
Release Date: 2008
Piece Count: 2292
Dimensions: 22.5 inches long, 25 inches wide
Price: $199.99
The largest and most elaborate LEGO chess set to date, the Giant Chess Set featured a two-foot square board and included four miniature realms: skeletons, trolls, dwarves, and a castle. The board was smooth, enhancing its elegance, and the pieces were intricately designed, with wizards as bishops, knights on horseback, and rooks as fortified siege towers.
5. Pirates Chess Set - Retired
Set: #852751
Release Date: 2009
Piece Count: 126
Dimensions: 12.5 inches long, 12.5 inches wide
Price: $49.99
The first pirates-themed set depicted a clash between the Royal Navy and a crew of pirates. The variety of pirate pawns, each with distinct costumes and accessories, added charm. Notably, the pirate knight was a curly-tailed monkey wielding a knife.
6. Multi Game Pack 9-in-1 - Retired
Set: #852676
Release Date: 2009
Piece Count: 81
Dimensions: 10 inches long, 6.5 inches wide
Price: $24.99
This compact set enabled the play of nine classic board games, including Chess, Checkers, and Solitaire, making it ideal for travel.
7. Kingdoms Chess Set - Retired
Set: #853373
Release Date: 2012
Piece Count: 201
Dimensions: 13.5 inches long, 13.5 inches wide
Price: $49.99
Featuring a battle between the Green Dragon and Red Lion armies, this Castle-themed set showcased detailed minifigures. The Red Lion knight, a jester with a broad grin, was particularly memorable. This set was designed for display rather than travel, lacking a carry case or storage compartment.
8. Pirates Chess Set #2 - Retired
Set: #40158
Release Date: 2015
Piece Count: 776
Dimensions: 21 inches long, 11 inches wide
Price: $59.99
The second Pirates-themed set featured a beach theme, with sand and ocean elements. It introduced a smoother board with centered studs, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
9. Iconic Chess Set - Retired
Set: #40174
Release Date: 2017
Piece Count: 1450
Dimensions: 10 inches long, 10 inches wide
Price: $59.99
This set marked LEGO's first non-themed chess set, featuring traditional, blocky pieces and storage space beneath the board. It remained available for seven years before being retired in 2022.
10. Steampunk Mini Chess - Retired
Set: #BL19013
Release Date: 2019
Piece Count: 372
Dimensions: 4 inches long, 4 inches wide
Price: $37.99
A collaboration with BrickLink, this tiny set was part of the AFOL Designer Program, featuring fan-designed steampunk elements.
11. Hogwarts Wizard’s Chess Set - Retired
Set: #76392
Release Date: 2021
Piece Count: 876
Dimensions: 10.5 inches long, 10.5 inches wide
Price: $59.99
This set recreated the iconic chess scene from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, complete with minifigures representing Harry, Hermione, and Ron.
LEGO Hogwarts Wizard's Chess Set
0See it at Amazon
12. Traditional Chess Set
Set: #40719
Release Date: 2024
Piece Count: 743
Dimensions: 12 inches long, 12 inches wide
Price: $74.99
Reviewed upon its 2024 launch, this set remains the only one currently available. Its dark brown and beige squares mimic polished wood, offering a classic yet functional design.
LEGO Traditional Chess Set
0See it at LEGO
Where to Buy Retired LEGO Chess Sets
Finding retired LEGO sets can be challenging. Most of the chess sets listed here are no longer in production, so you'll need to turn to third-party sellers. While Amazon may offer some at a higher price, your best options are likely eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace. For more information on where to find LEGO sets, check out our guide to the best places to buy LEGO sets.
