The Fun, Novelty, and Form of a Giant Chess Set

Chess has intrigued people worldwide for hundreds of years. However, as chess evolves, so does the way we play it. One notable option that managed to catch the attention of chess players (casual and serious alike) is the debut of regularly available giant chess sets.

But before you go ahead and buy the first set that looks good, there are certain factors you need to be aware of.

Why Giant Chess Sets?

While the traditional way of playing the game is fun, giant chess sets bring a certain level of excitement to each game. As the giant chess pieces are usually knee-height or even taller, every move you make in the game feels much bigger and turns the regular chess board into a vast battlefield. 

Such an experience brings a lot of tension and thrill, making the game far more enjoyable, regardless of whether you play it outdoors or indoors. 

What to Look For in a Giant Chess Set

Playing giant chess is a unique experience, so the urge to rush out and buy a set as soon as possible is quite understandable. However, as such chess sets tend to be pricey, you should definitely be aware of the following factors before you make the purchasing decision.

Material Quality

One of the first things you need to take into consideration when buying a giant chess set is the material quality. To ensure longevity for both outdoor and indoor use, make sure that the set is made out of high-quality, durable, water-resistant materials. Some great examples would be fiberglass or durable plastics. 

Stability

If you plan on using your chess set outdoors, you need to be ready for unpredictable elements such as the wind. To prevent the pieces from tipping over, make sure to consider the ones with a sturdy, weighted base.

Ease of Storage

If you think it’s impossible to store a giant chess set indoors, don’t worry. There are giant chess board models and giant chess pieces that are collapsible or stackable, making them much easier to store in home, shed, or garage conditions.

Style & Personalization

You should aim for sets that visually suit your style. Not only does the visual appeal transform the game, but it also makes a very pleasing and captivating addition to any outdoor or indoor space. 

When is the Ideal Time to Play Giant Chess

Events & Celebrations

Many different events and celebrations could use a giant chess set. For instance, playing giant chess on birthdays, corporate gatherings, family game nights, and weddings becomes a very fun and memorable activity for all the guests. It can make for a strategic break from the full life of the party.

giant chess pieces on a giant chess board outside

Outdoor Recreation

Whether you are on the beach, in a park, or in your garden, giant chess is a unique way to enjoy the time you spend outdoors. Imagine how good it would feel to make your moves surrounded by nature and strategize under the shade of trees in the garden.

As one option, The 25” Giant Chess Set could be a nice addition to anyone’s garden or personal outdoor space, especially for families with kids. It is a lightweight, weather-resistant set made from durable plastic that features 10-inch base diameter pieces and has a 25-inch King. You can also get a smaller (but still giant) set with a 12" king.

For those who want something even more imposing, consider a life-size set!

How to Maintain a Giant Chess Set

Giant chess sets and all boards, even the most unique ones, need to be properly maintained, especially if you plan on using them outdoors. Here are some of the things you can do to ensure their longevity:

  • Cleaning - Cleaning such chess sets is a straightforward task. After playing, use a soft cloth to wipe off any accumulated dirt or debris during play if there is significant buildup.
  • Protection from Elements - Outdoor use can significantly impact the longevity of your chess set. That is why you might want to invest in water-resistant covers. Moreover, always store your set when not playing to protect it from extreme temperatures, rain, wind, and sunlight.
  • Repairing and Replacing - When buying a giant chess set, look for those that offer easy repair options or individual pieces for replacement. If certain pieces get damaged beyond repair, you should look for replacement ones. For example, you can get an individual giant queen piece from The House of Staunton.

Conclusion

Giant chess sets offer a unique way of enjoying traditional strategic chess gameplay. Allowing you to make your moves and develop strategies while surrounded by a beautiful environment is just one of the reasons why these sets make family gatherings and other social events more enjoyable. With such big chess pieces and a giant chess board that feels like a battlefield, every move you make in the game will seem more significant. Give giant chess a shot, and maybe get a set of pieces from The House of Staunton once you know it's for you.