LEGO Chess Sets: A Complete History

LEGO's iconic interlocking brick, patented in 1958, surprisingly didn't lead to an official LEGO chess set until 2005—almost 50 years later! This fact, even for a dedicated LEGO enthusiast, is a head-scratcher. Why the delay? In 2005, LEGO's primary market was children. Adult-focused lines and the concept of LEGO as a lifestyle brand, seamlessly integrating into adult spaces, didn't gain significant traction until much later, around 2007 and 2020 respectively.

What seems commonplace now, in 2025, was groundbreaking in 2005. The idea of a LEGO chess set, a sophisticated build for display and play, was a significant departure from the predominantly miniature playsets of previous decades.

Below is a chronological list of every LEGO chess set ever released – twelve in total, with only one currently available for purchase in 2025. For broader chess set options, explore 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, part of the Knights’ Kingdom theme (an extension of LEGO Castle). Two armies clash: the Shadow Knights, led by Vladek, and King Matthias's Kingdom of Morcia. The set boasts 24 detailed minifigures with unique armor and 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, this set features 24 minifigures, this time clad in iconic horned Viking helmets, 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

A more generic Castle theme, pitting crown knights against skeletal undead. The standout feature? 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

LEGO's largest and most elaborate chess set to date. The two-foot square board includes four miniature builds representing different realms (skeleton, troll, dwarf, and castle). The board's smooth surface and highly detailed pieces (wizard bishops, mounted knight minifigures, fortified rook towers) set it apart.

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 clash. The unique pirate pawn designs, including a knife-wielding monkey knight, add a playful element.

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 offering nine classic 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

A green dragon army battles a red lion army in this Castle-themed set. Characterful minifigures and a unique baseplate design highlight this set, which prioritizes display over portability.

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, featuring a smoother board design with centered 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

A minimalist approach: traditional chess pieces without minifigures or gimmicks, with integrated storage. This set enjoyed a seven-year run before retirement in 2022.

10. Steampunk Mini Chess - Retired

Set: #BL19013 Release Date: 2019 Piece Count: 372 Dimensions: 4 inches long, 4 inches wide Price: $37.99

A compact steampunk-themed set, a collaboration between LEGO and BrickLink, part of the AFOL Designer Program.

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

Recreates the iconic chess scene from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, including Harry, Ron, and Hermione minifigures.

LEGO Hogwarts Wizard's Chess Set

[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

The current, readily available LEGO chess set. Its dark brown and beige color scheme evokes polished wood, offering a classic aesthetic.

LEGO Traditional Chess Set

[See it at LEGO]

Where to Buy Retired LEGO Chess Sets

Finding retired LEGO sets often requires searching third-party sellers like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and sometimes Amazon (at a premium).

See our guide to the best places to buy LEGO sets for more information.