Unique Chess Boards You Have to See to Believe

Chess is one of the most standardized games worldwide. However, rules and gameplay standardization do not restrict artistry and innovation when it comes to chess set design. This means chessboards, chessmen, and other chess accessories can adopt nearly any style if it does not impact their usability (and maybe even if it does, if it's not meant to be used for official play).

Six Unbelievably Unique Chess Boards You Have to See to Believe

1. Straight Up Chess Board

When you hear of a unique chess board or set, what mostly comes to mind is the uniqueness of the chess pieces or the chessboard's color pattern. But that's not the case with the straight-up chess board, which is available in many designs and materials.

As the name suggests, this chessboard is designed to be hung on the wall (like wall art), standing upright vertically. It disregards the horizontal laying style of the traditional tabletop chessboards and welcomes the wall mount design.

The chessboard tiles are painted on the backdrop, and the chess pieces sit on mounted narrow acrylic shelves (removable). The chessboard also features a decorative frame that adds a flair of beauty, making it a superior piece of wall décor.

Unlike the typical chessboards, the straight-up chess board has rectangular tiles to fit the profiles of chessmen. Depending on the chessmen's heights, the tiles vary in size, ranging between 2 and 4.5 inches.

Generally, the straight-up chessboard is a combination of wall art and a piece of gaming device. It is suitable for prolonged matches – the kind that takes days or weeks. The board usually has two move makers (Last Move and Check Mate) to show the last move and announce the checkmate.

2. Giant Chess Sets

The name says all here. These unique chess sets have unusual sizes. They are uniquely massive, measuring up to a few square meters.

While chess focuses mainly on mental activity, some designs, specifically giant chess boards, also aim to involve physical activity. The House of Staunton's 25" Giant Chess Set, for example, requires a bit of strength to play with.

This giant game board features 13"x13" square chessboard tiles. Designed for outdoor flat surfaces, such as a backyard, it is made of durable, heavy-duty nylon and plastic that enables it to withstand harsh weather conditions.

3. Rollable E-Chessboard

Rollable, soft plastic, paper, or silicone-made chess boards are pretty common. What's not common are rollable computer chessboards like the Square Off Pro Chess e-board.

The gameboard is made of silicone, which makes it pretty flexible and lightweight, making it ultra-portable.

What makes it unique is the integration of a computer board for chess that gives it all the functionalities of a typical smart electronic chessboard. This includes gameplay sensors, adaptive AI software, interactive LED lights, and internet connectivity (using a dedicated app), among other features.

And most interestingly, its flexibility does not affect its responsiveness. As such, you do not have to press the chess pieces on the board for it to register the movement.

4. 2D Portable Chess Set

Everything about this wooden 2D Portable chess set (inspired by Got Chess) is unique. For starters, the chess board and pieces are laser-cut. They are super thin (approximately 4mm thick), forming a unique, flat design. It is also uniquely minimalistic, a feature that enhances its portability significantly.

Its unique design makes it an incredible piece of décor for office space. It is also suitable for travel, as it is compact and lightweight.

Unlike in the typical chessboards where the chessmen sit on the board, this laser-cut board features slots in each tile for holding its unique chess pieces in place and upright.

The chess set comes in four thin panels – two panels for the chessboard and two carrier plates for chess pieces.

The chess set is made of beech hardwood and carefully finished with water-based paint and varnish.

5. 3-Man Circular Chess

Whether you are a collector or a chess enthusiast looking for unique chess sets for sale, the 3 Man Chess set is worth investing in.

For starters, unlike the typical chess boards, this game board is circular.

Although it may take a while to get the hang of it, this board takes chess excitement and challenge to an entirely new level. It features trajectory lines to guide the movements of the chessmen, which can help you learn how to play 3-player chess quickly and effortlessly.

The chessboard comes in three panels hinged together for easy portability. It is also lightweight and made of weather-resistant PVC plastic. As such, it is highly durable and suitable for travel and in-door gaming.

Final Words

When looking to enhance your chess experience, integrating a unique chessboard into your play can prove quite fruitful. Essentially, every unique chess set has a subtle feature that enhances the chess experience. While there are hundreds of distinctive chess boards out there, the pieces we have mentioned here are the rare kind. These chess sets are worth adding to your chess collection.

We have included links for the pieces that are available for sale. You may also want to check out The House of Staunton for some of the most amazing chess products, including unique chess sets, boards, and chess pieces.

FAQs

Q1. Are there unique chess sets available for sale?

Yes, there are numerous unique chess sets available for sale. Still, it is worth noting that some of the most unique sets may be hard to find, as they are usually limited editions.

Q2. How do I know if a particular unique chessboard is ideal for me?

Consider your feelings about the unique chess board to know if it is ideal for you. Also, keep in mind your primary goal for buying a special chessboard. Finally, consider how the chessboard's uniqueness influences the board's usability and effectiveness.

Q3. Where can I find unique chess boards available for sale?

You can find unique chess sets for sale from chess-dedicated retailers and manufacturers such as The House of Staunton.