Home > News > "All LEGO Chess Sets Ever Launched"

"All LEGO Chess Sets Ever Launched"

Author:Kristen Update:May 02,2025

In 1958, LEGO patented its iconic "binding brick," but it wasn't until nearly 50 years later, in 2005, that they introduced their first official chess set. As a devoted LEGO enthusiast, I found this fact astonishing. Why did it take so long for LEGO to venture into chess? To me, a LEGO Chess set seemed like an obvious choice—an engaging way to expand their reach to a broader audience.

However, in 2005, LEGO's primary focus was on children, and the company had yet to fully embrace its growing adult fanbase until 2007. Moreover, the concept of LEGO lifestyle branding, which involves integrating brick-built items into everyday living spaces, didn't gain momentum until around 2020. What we now consider commonplace in 2025 was groundbreaking when the first LEGO Chess set hit the market in 2005. Prior to that, LEGO builds were mostly centered around miniature playsets rather than life-like representations.

Here's a comprehensive history of every LEGO Chess Set, from the first release in 2005 to the latest available in 2025. There have been 12 sets in total, and only one remains available for purchase. For those interested in more options, 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: #851499Release Date: 2005Piece Count: 80Dimensions: 13.5 inches long, 12.5 inches widePrice: $49.99

The inaugural LEGO Chess set was themed around the Knights' Kingdom, an extension of the LEGO Castle series. It featured two opposing forces: the Shadow Knights, led by the nefarious sorcerer Vladek, and the Kingdom of Morcia, led by King Matthias. The set included 24 minifigures adorned with intricate armor and distinctive shields.

2. Vikings Chess Set - Retired

Set: #851861Release Date: 2006Piece Count: 60Dimensions: 12.5 inches long, 12.5 inches widePrice: $49.99

Similar to the previous year's Knights' Kingdom set, the Vikings Chess set also included 24 minifigures. These were decked out in classic Viking helmets, complete with spears and axes.

3. Castle Chess Set - Retired

Set: #852001Release Date: 2007Piece Count: 162Dimensions: 13.5 inches long, 12.5 inches widePrice: $49.99

This Castle-themed set pitted a royal army of crown knights against a spectral army of skeletons. The standout feature was the Grim Reaper bishops, equipped with imposing scythes.

4. Giant Chess Set - Retired

Set: #852293Release Date: 2008Piece Count: 2292Dimensions: 22.5 inches long, 25 inches widePrice: $199.99

The largest and most elaborate LEGO Chess set to date, the Giant Chess Set was a marvel in every aspect. The board spanned two feet in both directions and included four miniature builds representing different realms. The smooth, studless board lent an elegant finish, and the intricately designed pieces, from wizard bishops to knight minifigures on horseback and fortified rook towers, were a sight to behold.

5. Pirates Chess Set - Retired

Set: #852751Release Date: 2009Piece Count: 126Dimensions: 12.5 inches long, 12.5 inches widePrice: $49.99

This set featured a clash between the Royal Navy and a band of pirates. The diversity in pirate pawns, each with unique attire and accessories, added a fun element. The pirate knight, a knife-wielding monkey, epitomized the set's whimsical nature.

6. Multi Game Pack 9-in-1 - Retired

Set: #852676Release Date: 2009Piece Count: 81Dimensions: 10 inches long, 6.5 inches widePrice: $24.99

Designed for portability, this compact set allowed for nine different classic board games, including Chess, Checkers, and Ludo, making it a versatile travel companion.

7. Kingdoms Chess Set - Retired

Set: #853373Release Date: 2012Piece Count: 201Dimensions: 13.5 inches long, 13.5 inches widePrice: $49.99

Another Castle-themed set, this one featured a battle between the Green Dragon and Red Lion armies. The detailed minifigures, including the standout Red Lion knight—a jester with a broad smile—added charm. This set marked a shift towards display-focused LEGO creations, lacking a carry case or storage compartment.

8. Pirates Chess Set #2 - Retired

Set: #40158Release Date: 2015Piece Count: 776Dimensions: 21 inches long, 11 inches widePrice: $59.99

The second Pirates-themed set featured a beach setting with sand and ocean elements. It introduced a smoother board with centered studs, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

9. Iconic Chess Set - Retired

Set: #40174Release Date: 2017Piece Count: 1450Dimensions: 10 inches long, 10 inches widePrice: $59.99

This set marked a departure from themed sets, offering a straightforward, traditional chess set with blocky pieces and built-in storage. It enjoyed a long shelf life, staying available until its retirement at the end of 2022.

10. Steampunk Mini Chess - Retired

Set: #BL19013Release Date: 2019Piece Count: 372Dimensions: 4 inches long, 4 inches widePrice: $37.99

A collaboration with BrickLink, this fan-designed set was part of the AFOL Designer Program, offering a compact yet detailed steampunk-themed chess experience.

11. Hogwarts Wizard’s Chess Set - Retired

Set: #76392Release Date: 2021Piece Count: 876Dimensions: 10.5 inches long, 10.5 inches widePrice: $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.

### LEGO Hogwarts Wizard's Chess Set

0See it at Amazon

12. Traditional Chess Set

Set: #40719Release Date: 2024Piece Count: 743Dimensions: 12 inches long, 12 inches widePrice: $74.99

Our review of LEGO's latest chess set highlighted its classic appeal, with dark brown and beige squares mimicking polished wood. Simple yet elegant, it's a testament to LEGO's evolution in design.

### 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 on this list are no longer in production, so you'll need to turn to third-party sellers. While Amazon might offer retired sets at a higher price, platforms like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are often better options. For more information on where to shop, see our guide to the best places to buy LEGO sets.

How much are you willing to spend on a LEGO set? ------------------------------------------------