Even though a lot of today's chess is played on the Internet or using software programmed to throw the most formidable opponent at you, there is still the opportunity to actually play chess against another human being. And if you're going to do that you're going to need a chess set. Choosing one isn't as easy as you might think. There are chess sets for every occasion and setting. We're going to give you just a hint of what's available.
The old days of the typical plain board and wooden chess pieces are gone. Yes, these sets still exist and to a degree are considered collectors items if you can find a very old set, but today the materials that chess sets and pieces are made of vary greatly, not to mention the size of the sets themselves.
For example, if you're looking for a set to have at home, maybe on a dining room table or play area, your standard chess board is usually around 15 to 17 square inches with the chess pieces between 2 and 4 inches, measured by the king size. Of course the pawns will be much smaller. But even home chess sets come in more sizes and styles than you can imagine.
For instance, the boards themselves come in all types of woods, maple and elm being the most common. The boards also come in materials other than wood such as marble, glass and plastic. The pieces, in addition to various sizes also come in different materials such as plastic, wood, glass and a number of synthetics. Aside from that, the pieces also come in a variety of styles. Most recently, it has been common to make chess pieces that are not your traditional king and queen shape. Many chess piece sets are designed after popular TV shows and movies such as Star Trek and Lord Of The Rings. These sets are usually very elaborate as well, made out of very expensive materials. These novelty sets can sell for as much as several hundred dollars. A traditional chess set is still going to cost you a pretty penny today, ranging in price from about $30 to $100 or more. The price of the sets is determined by the size of the pieces, board and the materials both are made of.
If you're looking for a set that you can take around with you then you're going to want one that is fairly small and folds up even smaller. Portable chess sets are all the rage for kids who belong to chess clubs. The average portable chess set is between 5 and 7 inches square. When folded up they are half the size. The pieces are usually very small, with the king being no taller than 2 inches. You better have small hands to play on these kind of sets.
Most portable sets are made of fairly inexpensive materials. In most cases the boards are made of hinged metal and the pieces are made of plastic. But there are some portable chess sets that are a little more elaborate for somebody who wants to impress his friends, even when he is traveling. Portable chess sets are usually between $10 and $79 in price. The most expensive ones are very well made and worth every penny.
Whatever you're looking for in a chess set, you'll have plenty of options. So take your time and make sure it's exactly the one you want, because it's out there. You just have to look.
Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Toys
