"All LEGO Chess Sets: A Complete History"

LEGO patented its iconic "binding brick" in 1958, yet it took nearly 50 years for the company to release its first official chess set in 2005. This fact was a revelation to me, even as someone deeply immersed in the world of LEGO. The delay in introducing LEGO Chess puzzled me, as it seemed an obvious choice to appeal to a broad audience with a popular game like chess.

In 2005, LEGO's primary focus was on children, with little attention paid to the adult fan base until 2007. The concept of LEGO lifestyle branding, integrating brick-built items into everyday life, didn't gain traction until around 2020. What we now see as commonplace in 2025 was groundbreaking when the first LEGO chess set was launched in 2005, especially compared to the earlier focus on miniature playsets.

Below is a detailed history of all LEGO Chess Sets released to date, totaling 12 sets, with the latest one still available for purchase in 2025. For more chess options, you can also refer to our guide on 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 was part of the Knight's Kingdom, an extension of the LEGO Castle theme. It featured two armies: the Shadow Knights, led by the evil sorcerer Vladek, and the Kingdom of Morcia, led by King Matthias. The set included 24 minifigures with detailed armor and stylized 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 the previous year's Knight's Kingdom set, the Vikings set included 24 minifigures adorned with traditional horned helmets and armed 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
This set, themed around the Castle, featured a battle between crown knights and an undead army of skeletons. A standout feature was the 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 largest LEGO chess set ever created, the Giant Chess Set was a masterpiece. It featured a two-foot-square board and included miniature builds of various realms. The board's smooth surface added elegance, and the detailed pieces, including wizards, knights on horseback, and fortified siege towers, were truly impressive.

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 featured a Royal Navy versus a crew of pirates. The variety in the pirate pawns, each with unique costumes and accessories, was particularly engaging. The pirate knight, represented by a monkey with a knife, added a fun twist.

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 allowed for nine different classic board games, making it perfect for travel. It included games like Ludo, Chess, Checkers, and more.

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 depicted a battle between the Green Dragon and Red Lion armies. The detailed minifigures, especially the Jester knight with a big smile, were a highlight. This set marked a shift towards display-focused LEGO sets, 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 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 was the first to feature traditional, blocky chess pieces without minifigures or thematic elements. Its longevity on the market, lasting until 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 between LEGO and BrickLink, this tiny set was part of the AFOL Designer Program. Its steampunk theme and compact size made it a unique addition to the LEGO chess collection.

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. It was a beloved addition for fans of the series.

See it at Amazon

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 highlighted its classic appeal with dark brown and beige squares resembling polished wood. This set, still available in stores, offers a simple yet functional design, a departure from the more elaborate sets of the past.

See it at LEGO

Where to Buy Retired LEGO Chess Sets

Finding retired LEGO sets can be challenging. Most of the chess sets listed here are no longer in production, so you'll need to turn to third-party sellers. While Amazon may offer some at a higher price, platforms like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are your best options for finding these discontinued treasures. For more information on where to shop, check out our guide to the best places to buy LEGO sets.