LEGO's iconic "binding brick," patented in 1958, didn't lead to an official LEGO chess set until 2005—a surprising gap, even for a seasoned LEGO enthusiast. This delay stemmed from LEGO's primary focus on children's markets until 2007, and the later emergence of LEGO lifestyle branding (integrating LEGO into non-LEGO spaces) around 2020. What's commonplace today was revolutionary then.
This article details the evolution of LEGO chess sets, showcasing twelve unique editions. Only one remains currently available (2025). For broader chess set options, consult our guide to the best overall chess sets.
All LEGO Chess Sets: A Chronological Overview
Set: #851499 Release Date: 2005 Piece Count: 80 Dimensions: 13.5" L x 12.5" W Price: $49.99
Launched within the Knight's Kingdom (LEGO Castle expansion), this set featured the Shadow Knights (Vladek) versus the Kingdom of Morcia (King Matthias). It included 24 detailed minifigures.
Set: #851861 Release Date: 2006 Piece Count: 60 Dimensions: 12.5" L x 12.5" W Price: $49.99
Similar to its predecessor, this set featured 24 Viking minifigures, complete with horned helmets, spears, and axes.
Set: #852001 Release Date: 2007 Piece Count: 162 Dimensions: 13.5" L x 12.5" W Price: $49.99
A more generic Castle theme, pitting crown knights against skeleton undead. Noteworthy for its Grim Reaper bishops with large scythes.
Set: #852293 Release Date: 2008 Piece Count: 2292 Dimensions: 22.5" L x 25" W Price: $199.99
LEGO's largest and most elaborate chess set. A 2-foot square board with four miniature realms (skeleton, troll, dwarf, castle) and highly detailed pieces (wizard bishops, mounted knight minifigures, fortified rook towers). A smooth, elegant board.
Set: #852751 Release Date: 2009 Piece Count: 126 Dimensions: 12.5" L x 12.5" W Price: $49.99
A Royal Navy versus pirate crew, with unique pirate pawn costumes and a monkey pirate knight.
Set: #852676 Release Date: 2009 Piece Count: 81 Dimensions: 10" L x 6.5" W Price: $24.99
A travel-sized set including chess, checkers, and seven other classic games.
Set: #853373 Release Date: 2012 Piece Count: 201 Dimensions: 13.5" L x 13.5" W Price: $49.99
Green Dragon versus Red Lion army, featuring detailed minifigures and a unique baseplate. Designed for display, not travel.
Set: #40158 Release Date: 2015 Piece Count: 776 Dimensions: 21" L x 11" W Price: $59.99
A beach-themed pirate set with smooth squares and central studs.
Set: #40174 Release Date: 2017 Piece Count: 1450 Dimensions: 10" L x 10" W Price: $59.99
A simple, traditional chess set with blocky pieces and integrated storage. Available for seven years.
Set: #BL19013 Release Date: 2019 Piece Count: 372 Dimensions: 4" L x 4" W Price: $37.99
A BrickLink Designer Program collaboration, a small steampunk-themed set.
Set: #76392 Release Date: 2021 Piece Count: 876 Dimensions: 10.5" L x 10.5" W Price: $59.99
Recreates the Harry Potter chess scene, including three minifigures.

Set: #40719 Release Date: 2024 Piece Count: 743 Dimensions: 12" L x 12" W Price: $74.99
The current (2025) available set, featuring a polished wood aesthetic. Simple, functional, and appealing.

Acquiring Retired Sets:
Finding retired LEGO sets often requires searching third-party sellers like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Amazon (expect higher prices).