"All LEGO Chess Sets: A Complete History"

LEGO patented its iconic "binding brick" in 1958, but it wasn't until 2005 that LEGO introduced its first official chess set. This fact was quite surprising to me, especially as a LEGO enthusiast who spends much of my time exploring and learning about these versatile bricks. The delay in releasing a LEGO Chess set, which I thought would be a natural fit for broadening their appeal, was intriguing. In 2005, LEGO's target audience was predominantly children, and it wasn't until 2007 that the company began to seriously engage with adult fans. The concept of integrating LEGO into everyday life, beyond play, didn't gain significant traction until around 2020.

What we now see as a common offering in 2025 was groundbreaking when the first LEGO chess set was released in 2005. Prior to that, LEGO sets were mainly miniature playsets rather than representations of real-life objects. Below is a detailed, chronological list of all 12 LEGO Chess Sets, including the one still available for purchase in 2025. If you're interested in 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 Knight's Kingdom, an extension of the LEGO Castle line. It depicted a battle between the Shadow Knights, led by the nefarious sorcerer Vladek, and the Kingdom of Morcia, led by King Matthias. This set came with 24 minifigures, each 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
Similar to its predecessor, the Vikings Chess Set included 24 minifigures, this time sporting iconic horned 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 more generic battle between crown knights and an army of skeletons. A standout feature was the Grim Reaper bishops, complete with oversized 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 ever designed, the Giant Chess Set was truly impressive. Its board spanned two feet in every direction and included four miniature builds representing different realms. The smooth board and intricately designed pieces, including wizard bishops and knights on horseback, made it a standout.

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, featuring a battle between a Royal Navy and a pirate crew. The variety in the pirate pawns, each with unique costumes and accessories, was particularly engaging. A memorable detail was the pirate knight, depicted as 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
A compact, travel-friendly set that allowed players to enjoy 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 clash between the Green Dragon and Red Lion armies. The detailed minifigures, especially the Jester knight from the Red Lion army, added character to the set. It was the first LEGO chess set designed more for display than for 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 an outdoor beach theme with sand and ocean elements. It introduced smooth chess squares with single studs at their centers, 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 a shift towards a more traditional chess set, devoid of thematic elements or minifigures. Its longevity on store shelves, lasting until its retirement at 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 fan-designed set through the BrickLink AFOL Designer Program, this tiny set embraced a steampunk aesthetic.

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 famous scene from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, complete with three minifigures representing 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
Reviewed upon its 2024 release, this is the only LEGO chess set still available in stores. Its classic wood-like design, with dark brown and beige squares, offers a timeless appeal.

LEGO Traditional Chess Set

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Where to Buy Retired LEGO Chess Sets

Finding a retired LEGO set 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 bet. While Amazon may offer some at a higher price, platforms like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are often more fruitful. Check out our guide to the best places to buy LEGO sets for more information on where to shop.