LEGO patented its iconic "binding brick" back in 1958, but it wasn't until 2005 that the company introduced its first official chess set. This fact caught me by surprise, even as someone deeply immersed in the world of LEGO. The concept of a LEGO Chess set seemed like a natural fit—an easy and engaging way to introduce bricks to a broader audience.
However, in 2005, LEGO primarily catered to children. It wasn't until 2007 that the company began to actively target adult fans, and the notion of LEGO lifestyle branding—where brick-built items blend seamlessly into everyday spaces—didn't gain momentum until around 2020. What we now consider standard in 2025 was groundbreaking when the initial LEGO Chess set was released in 2005, and unthinkable in the years prior when most sets were focused on miniature playsets rather than real-world representations.
Here's a comprehensive history of all LEGO Chess Sets, detailing the 12 sets released over the years, including the only one still available for purchase in 2025. For more chess options, be sure to check out 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 was themed around the Knights' Kingdom, an extension of the LEGO Castle series. It featured two opposing armies: the Shadow Knights, led by the malevolent sorcerer Vladek, and the Kingdom of Morcia, under the rule of King Matthias. The set included 24 intricately designed minifigures 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
Following closely on the heels of the Knights' Kingdom set, the Vikings set also featured 24 minifigures, this time donning classic Viking helmets and wielding spears and axes, embodying the fierce Viking warrior spirit.
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 set continued the Castle theme but took a more generic approach, pitting crown knights against a skeletal army. The highlight was the Grim Reaper bishops, complete with large scythes, adding a haunting touch to the gameplay.
4. Giant Chess Set - Retired
Set: #852293
Release Date: 2008
Piece Count: 2292
Dimensions: 22.5 inches long, 25 inches wide
Price: $199.99
This set stands out as the largest and most elaborate LEGO chess set ever produced. It boasted a smooth, elegant board and intricately designed pieces, including wizard bishops, mounted knights, and fortified siege tower rooks. The set also included four miniature builds representing different realms, enhancing its grandeur.
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
This set introduced a pirate theme, pitting the Royal Navy against a crew of unique pirates. The pirate knight—a monkey with a knife—was a playful and chaotic highlight, adding a whimsical twist to the traditional game.
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
Designed for portability, this compact set allowed players to enjoy nine different classic board games, including Chess, Checkers, and Ludo, making it a versatile choice for travel and family entertainment.
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
This set depicted a battle between the Green Dragon and Red Lion armies, featuring detailed minifigures with unique characteristics. The Jester knight of the Red Lion army, with his broad smile, was a standout feature. This set marked a shift towards more display-oriented designs, 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
This second pirate-themed set featured a beach setting, with one side resembling sand and the other ocean. Its board was the first to incorporate smooth squares with central 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 broke from tradition by offering a straightforward chess set without minifigures or thematic elements. Its longevity on store shelves, lasting until 2022, underscores its timeless appeal.
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 the LEGO fansite BrickLink, this tiny set was part of the BrickLink AFOL Designer Program. Its steampunk theme and compact size made it a unique and collectible offering.
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 memorable chess scene from "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," complete with minifigures of Harry, Hermione, and Ron. Its detailed design captured the magic and drama of the film.
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
The most recent addition to the LEGO chess collection, this set offers a classic look with dark brown and beige squares, mimicking polished wood. Its simple yet elegant design makes it a functional and appealing choice for both play and display.
LEGO Traditional Chess Set
0See it at LEGO
Where to Buy Retired LEGO Chess Sets
Finding a retired LEGO set can be challenging. Most of the chess sets listed here are no longer in production, so you'll need to search for them on third-party platforms. While Amazon may occasionally offer retired sets at a higher price, your best options for finding these treasures are eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace. For more information on where to shop, check out our guide to the best places to buy LEGO sets.
