LEGO's iconic "binding brick," patented in 1958, didn't see its first official chess set debut until 2005—a surprising gap considering the potential market. This delay stemmed from LEGO's primary focus on children until 2007, and the later emergence of adult-focused LEGO lifestyle branding around 2020. The concept of LEGO integrated into non-LEGO spaces was unprecedented in 2005.
This article details the evolution of LEGO chess sets, showcasing twelve unique releases. Only one remains readily available in 2025. For broader chess set options, consult our guide to the best overall chess sets.
All LEGO Chess Sets: A Chronological Overview
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
This inaugural set, part of the Knights' Kingdom expansion of the LEGO Castle line, featured two armies: Shadow Knights (led by Vladek) and the Kingdom of Morcia (led by King Matthias). It included 24 detailed minifigures.
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, this set featured 24 minifigures, this time Viking-themed.
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
A more generic Castle theme, pitting crown knights against skeleton warriors. Notable for its Grim Reaper bishops.
4. Giant Chess Set (Retired)
- Set: #852293
- Release Date: 2008
- Piece Count: 2292
- Dimensions: 22.5 inches long, 25 inches wide
- Price: $199.99
LEGO's largest chess set, featuring a large board and miniature realm builds.
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
A Royal Navy versus pirate crew theme, with unique pirate pawn designs.
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 set including nine classic games, including chess.
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
A Green Dragon versus Red Lion army theme, notable for its detailed minifigures.
8. Pirates Chess Set #2 (Retired)
- Set: #40158
- Release Date: 2015
- Piece Count: 776
- Dimensions: 21 inches long, 11 inches wide
- Price: $59.99
A beach-themed pirate set with improved board design.
9. Iconic Chess Set (Retired)
- Set: #40174
- Release Date: 2017
- Piece Count: 1450
- Dimensions: 10 inches long, 10 inches wide
- Price: $59.99
A classic, minifigure-less chess set with integrated storage.
10. Steampunk Mini Chess (Retired)
- Set: #BL19013
- Release Date: 2019
- Piece Count: 372
- Dimensions: 4 inches long, 4 inches wide
- Price: $37.99
A BrickLink collaboration featuring a compact steampunk design.
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
A recreation of the chess scene from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.
12. Traditional Chess Set
- Set: #40719
- Release Date: 2024
- Piece Count: 743
- Dimensions: 12 inches long, 12 inches wide
- Price: $74.99
The current, readily available LEGO chess set, featuring a classic design.
Acquiring Retired Sets: Finding retired LEGO sets often requires searching third-party sellers like Amazon, eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace.
