A Guide to Themed Chess Sets

Ask some one to envision a chess set, and invariably they have just thought of a Staunton chess set. Why shouldn't they? Simple and elegant, what started as a blue print for standardizing designs - has turned into a familiar friend that still allows for special touches to be added to the chess pieces. The Staunton design has been so popular for over one hundred years, that it is the standard for chess clubs and tournaments throughout the world.

But, not everyone's style goes with the flow of the norm, and this includes chess sets. Thankfully, there are several different types of themed chess sets for players and collectors alike.

Since chess is considered to be the ultimate battle of the mind, themed chess set typically revolve around historical battles and wars that we all remember. By far the most known of these is the civil war. Collectors and casual players alike have long been fans of the civil war chess set. Depicting one of the darkest times of American history, players have a myriad of options for chess sets. The majority of these center around either brass sets or a more popular and colorful marble-resin chess set.

While the civil war is not always everyone's favorite war, there are still several options. One may choose amongst sets that commemorate the American Revolution, the historical battles of England and Scotland, or the trials of the Greeks vs. the Romans. No matter the battles, a chess set can be found.

While the battle themes do dominate the themed chess set category, there are still a multitude of chess sets that do not center on war. Literary buffs can focus their sights on sets from Shakespeare. A popular group of themed chess sets are the mythological chess sets. Characters in these chess sets include the powerful Hercules, God of the Seas Poseidon, and even the menacing Minotaur.

Never forgotten, the sports fans are also have their choice of themes that match their own interests. Hockey, golf, football or baseball, there is a chess set that satisfies the need of every fan out there.

Finally there are sets for the TV buff. Characters from shows such as South Park or the Simpsons have the effect of both being a talking point and even a welcome distraction from a difficult chess game.

Whether the chess set is used for regular playing or for more ornamental uses, a themed set will give the opportunity to have a set that defines a player's own style and flair.