Chess – a game for thinkers, creative minds and problem solvers. As one of the oldest board games, the game of chess is currently experiencing a high phase again. We have researched chess games and practical chess accessories for the right equipment.
As a thinking and strategy game, the game of chess promotes individual intellectual abilities such as logic, concentration and forward thinking. Other hobbies often require a variety of equipment. In chess you need exactly one essential part: the chessboard.
Tailored to your preferences, the chessboard can be small or large, classic or extravagant, equipped with Staunton figures or other themed figures. There are almost as many different chess boards as there are moves and game situations. We will introduce you to recommended chess boards in various designs as well as practical chess accessories.
Our price tip: foldable chess board from AVEO
The classic and at the same time practical chess board by AVEO is made of wood with a wood grain coating that ensures a comfortable hand feeling when playing. The practical, lightweight chess board is foldable and can therefore be easily stowed away. The figures with the felted underside are simply placed in the storage compartments on the back of the board for transport. When opened, the dimensions are 29 x 29 x 2.5 centimeters; when folded, the chessboard is only 29 x 14.5 x 5 centimeters.
The premium model from YBYB is made of solid wood. The classic chess board is made from one piece and therefore has no annoying bumps. This makes it very stable and can be set up anywhere. The robust material guarantees a long service life. This premium chess board is a real eye-catcher. The chess pieces have a non-slip underside and a natural texture. The dimensions are 45 x 45 x 7 centimeters.
The extravagant model: marble board with Staunton figures
The chess board with marbled surface from Store Indya is a real highlight and impresses with its beautiful surface and the extraordinary chess pieces. The box is made of durable sheesham wood, the high-quality chess pieces are handmade from soapstone. There is a practical storage compartment for the chess pieces under the playing field. The inside is equipped with felted foam holders to protect the chess pieces. The board has the dimensions 25.4 x 25.4 x 4.4 centimeters.
For on the go: magnetic travel chess board by Peradix
The foldable and magnetic chess game from Peradix is ideal for traveling. The board and the figures are made of high-quality wood-plastic composite material, WPC for short. The chessboard has the advantage that it is moisture-resistant and weatherproof.
This magnetic chess board is also an ideal product for children too. Due to the magnetic properties, the pieces adhere very well to the board. A game is therefore no longer a problem in the back seat of the car. Unfolded the dimensions are 25 x 25 x 2 centimeters, when folded you save space: the chess box is then only 25 x 12.5 x 4 centimeters in size.
For outdoors: XXXL chess set from Ubergames
The XXXL chess set by Ubergames is ideal for warm summer days and can be used in the garden or on the balcony. The chess pieces are up to 30 centimeters tall and waterproof and UV-resistant. The PVC plastic parts can be filled with water or sand to increase the weight. The black and white base plates can be easily put together and stowed away when not in use.
For Star Wars fans: chess board with movie characters
The Star Wars chess game from Hasbro makes fan hearts beat faster. The silver figures represent the rebellion and consist of movie characters like R2-D2 and Han Solo. The blackish figures represent the empire, including characters like Darth Vader and Boba Fett. The board has the dimensions 40 x 26.7 x 6.4 centimeters.
Keep an eye on the time with digital chess clocks
A chess clock is an important accessory when playing chess and is used to control time. If it is not used in the living room at home, it is essential to use it in chess clubs and at chess tournaments. For a game like a pro, we recommend these two chess clocks from different price ranges:
The all-rounder: digital chess clock from Philos
The digital chess clock from Philos is easy to program and enables both the individual time setting for each player and different functions. Including the move timer and game timer functions. Optionally, an acoustic warning signal can be switched on, which warns of the impending expiry of the reflection time. Time and train counter corrections as well as the setting of bonus time and delay are also possible with this device.
The price tip: digital chess clock from LEAP
The cheap chess clock from LEAP, like the Philos clock, has different setting modes. For example, you can set the time for each player individually and set an alarm for the end of game time. You need batteries to operate the chess clock.
Chess books for beginners and advanced players
Due to the enormous selection of chess books, it is difficult to say which of the countless copies is the best. The books differ greatly depending on the author, style and content. The following three books are just a small selection of the most popular chess books:
Our conclusion
Which chess board you ultimately choose depends on your preferences. Would you like to stow the board after playing or leave it as an eye-catcher? Do you want to play with the classic Staunton pieces or would you prefer to have themed chess pieces drawn across the board?
On the one hand it is a beautiful eye-catcher made of wood and on the other hand it can be stowed away to save space. However, it is rather inconvenient when traveling. Then we would rather recommend a travel chess board like the one from.
Frequently asked questions about chess
Where does the game of chess come from?
The exact place of origin of the chess game is not known. It is highly probable, however, that the game of chess spread from northwest India. This is supported by the basic position of the chess pieces, which correspond to the Indian army of that time.
What should be considered when buying a chess set?
- Material: A plastic chess set is cheap, compact and ideal for beginners and children. Plastic chess games are also a good companion when traveling. Chess games made of wood are real classics. The chic boards are suitable for all chess fans. The rather rare form are metal chessboards. The metal boards and figures look extravagant and are a real eye-catcher.
- Size: The size of the board is a matter of taste. For a professional gaming experience, however, the table should be 30 centimeters wider than the board. This gives both players a good overview of the field.
- Figure design: The characters and the design ultimately make up the largest part of the look. The classic Staunton figures can be found on most boards. However, you can also make fans of films, series or other areas happy with themed characters.
- Coordinates: Some chessboards have coordinates on the side edges. In tournaments, they enable the player to note the games. This is helpful but not absolutely necessary. Boards without coordinates usually look more elegant.
What are Staunton figures?
Staunton pieces are named after the British chess master Howard Staunton and were introduced in 1849. Later they became the standard type for chess pieces. The use of these chess pieces is recommended by the World Chess Federation in tournaments. The Staunton style combines elegance and robustness. The characters reflect the meaning that they ultimately have. For example, the king wears a crown with a cross and the queen wears a diadem.
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