LEGO patented its iconic "binding brick" back in 1958, but it wasn't until 2005 that the company introduced its first official LEGO Chess set. This might come as a surprise to many LEGO enthusiasts, as chess seemed like a natural fit for the brand, offering an accessible and marketable way to engage a broad audience. However, in 2005, LEGO's primary focus was on children, and the company did not actively target adult fans until 2007. Moreover, the concept of LEGO lifestyle branding, where brick-built items blend seamlessly into everyday life, didn't gain significant traction until around 2020. Thus, the introduction of a LEGO Chess set in 2005 was a pioneering move that set the stage for future developments in the LEGO universe.
Below is a detailed history of every LEGO Chess Set released, totaling 12 sets, including the only one currently available for purchase in 2025. For more chess set options, you can also refer to our guide on 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 emerged from the Knight's Kingdom theme, an extension of the LEGO Castle line. This set featured two opposing armies: the Shadow Knights, led by the malevolent sorcerer Vladek, and the Kingdom of Morcia, commanded by King Matthias. It included 24 intricately designed minifigures adorned 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
Closely resembling the previous year's Knight's Kingdom set, the Vikings Chess Set featured 24 minifigures equipped with iconic horned Viking helmets, along 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
Another entry in the Castle theme, this set was more generic, pitting crown knights against a skeletal army. A highlight of this set was the Grim Reaper bishops, each wielding a large scythe.
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 was a significant departure from its predecessors. Its board measured two feet on each side and included four miniature builds representing different realms. The board featured a smooth surface for a refined look, with beautifully designed pieces including wizard bishops, mounted knight minifigures, and fortified siege tower rooks.
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 set in the Pirates theme, it pitted the Royal Navy against a band of eclectic pirates. The variety in the pirate pawns, each with unique costumes and accessories, added charm to the set. Notably, the pirate knight was a monkey wielding a knife, adding a whimsical touch.
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 travel, this compact set allowed players to enjoy nine different classic board games, including Chess, Checkers, and Ludo, among others.
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 Castle theme, this set depicted a battle between the Green Dragon and Red Lion armies. The minifigures were detailed and characterful, with the Red Lion knight portrayed as a jester with a broad smile. Notably, this set was designed for display rather than travel, lacking a carry case or separate 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 an outdoor beach setting, with one side resembling sand and the other, ocean. It introduced smooth squares with central studs, enhancing the aesthetic and functionality of the board.
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 a shift towards a more traditional chess experience, featuring blocky, classic pieces without minifigures or thematic gimmicks. It included storage space beneath the board and remained on shelves until its retirement at the end of 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 the LEGO fansite BrickLink, this miniature set was part of the BrickLink AFOL Designer Program. Designed by fan CorvusA, it was one of 13 fan-designed sets released in 2019.
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
Inspired by the iconic chess scene in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," this set recreated the moment when Harry, Hermione, and Ron faced the chess trial. It included three minifigures representing the "Trio."
LEGO Hogwarts Wizard's Chess Set
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12. Traditional Chess Set
Set: #40719
Release Date: 2024
Piece Count: 743
Dimensions: 12 inches long, 12 inches wide
Price: $74.99
Our review of LEGO's latest chess set, launched in 2024, highlighted its appeal and functionality. Its dark brown and beige squares mimic polished wood, offering a classic look while remaining practical. This set is the only one currently available in stores.
LEGO Traditional Chess Set
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Where to Buy Retired LEGO Chess Sets
Finding retired LEGO sets can be challenging, as most sets on this list are no longer in production. For those interested in purchasing retired sets, consider third-party platforms such as Amazon, eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace, where you may find them at a premium. For more detailed shopping advice, refer to our guide on the best places to buy LEGO sets.
