"All LEGO Chess Sets: A Complete History"

LEGO patented its iconic "binding brick" in 1958, but it wasn't until nearly half a century later, in 2005, that the company unveiled its first official LEGO Chess set. This revelation was a surprise even to avid LEGO enthusiasts like myself, who spend countless hours building and exploring the world of LEGO. The delay in releasing a LEGO Chess set might seem puzzling, especially considering its potential to appeal to a broad audience. However, it's important to understand that LEGO's primary audience in 2005 was children, and the company did not fully embrace its adult fanbase until 2007. Moreover, the concept of integrating LEGO into everyday living spaces, known as LEGO lifestyle branding, didn't gain significant traction until around 2020.

What we now consider commonplace in 2025 was groundbreaking back in 2005 when the first LEGO Chess set was introduced. Before that, LEGO builds were mainly focused on miniature playsets rather than real-life objects. Here's a comprehensive timeline of all LEGO Chess Sets released to date, totaling 12 sets, with only one still available for purchase in 2025. For those interested in exploring other options, don't miss our guide to the best 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, part of the Knights' Kingdom series, an extension of the LEGO Castle theme, featured a battle between the Shadow Knights, led by the sinister sorcerer Vladek, and the Kingdom of Morcia, commanded by King Matthias. It included 24 intricately armored minifigures with 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 its predecessor, the Vikings Chess set also featured 24 minifigures, this time donning traditional Viking helmets and wielding 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 presented a battle between crown knights and an undead army of skeletons, highlighted by the striking Grim Reaper bishops wielding massive 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 Giant Chess Set remains the largest and most elaborate LEGO Chess set ever produced. It featured a two-foot-square board and included four miniature builds representing different realms. The smooth board and intricately designed pieces, including wizards as bishops and knights on horseback, added to its elegance.

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 band of pirates. The set's charm lay in its diversity, with each pirate pawn sporting a unique costume and accessory, and the pirate knight represented by a knife-wielding monkey.

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 was designed for travel and included pieces for nine classic board games, including Chess, Checkers, and Backgammon.

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 Castle-themed set showcased a battle between the Green Dragon and Red Lion armies. The detailed minifigures, including a jester knight with a cartoonish smile, added character to the set. Notably, this was the first LEGO Chess set designed for display rather than travel.

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 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 marked LEGO's first foray into a traditional chess set without thematic elements or minifigures. Its longevity on the market, lasting until the end of 2022, speaks to its 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 BrickLink, this tiny set was part of the AFOL Designer Program, showcasing fan-designed creations.

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 of Harry, Hermione, and Ron.

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, highlights its classic wood-like appearance with dark brown and beige squares. It's the only set still available in stores, offering a simple yet elegant design.

LEGO Traditional Chess Set

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Where to Buy Retired LEGO Chess Sets

Finding retired LEGO sets can be challenging, as most of the chess sets listed here are no longer in production. For those interested in acquiring these sets, third-party sellers are your best option. While Amazon may offer some retired sets at a higher price, platforms like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace often provide better opportunities. For more information on where to find LEGO sets, check out our guide to the best places to buy LEGO sets.