Playing Chess on a Staunton Chess Set

Chess is a game played by two players. The game takes place on a square chessboard, which has 64 squares in a eight by eight formation. Each individual playing the game has sixteen pieces: a king, a queen, two knights, two rooks, two bishops, and eight pawns.

Watch the moves you make on wood chess board

The name of the game is to “check-mate” the other player’s king. Each chess piece has rules about when and where they can move on the chessboard, which adds a level of planning and difficulty to the game.

Chess Pieces are generally carved from wood, but can be also generated from ivory or stone. Form and function combine to make a gorgeous hand-carved chess set a beautiful addition to any collection or home display.

One of the biggest items that can be purchased on auction sites today are vintage wood chess sets. They make the perfect collector’s item because of the intricate artwork and carving that craftsmen incorporate for each of the individual chessmen.

Every game of chess is like a story. A pawn sneaks towards “no man’s land” and views another pawn. A knight jumps to keep the pawn safe and a bishop righteously slips out to make sure there are no unforeseen problems.

Every piece of the chess set has a way of moving and is part of the story–all the way to when the king gets knocked down. When you play chess, you get to see the story unfold.

You guess what will happen next and sometimes you are right. Sometimes you miss that sneaky rook as it steals your queen. Ouch! that hurts!! If you enjoy stories, you’ll enjoy playing chess and making up your own stories.

To some people, chess is far more than a game. Chess is a philosophy, a logic puzzle, and an art all at once. For some, electronic chess is the perfect way to match wits with themselves, a partner, or a computer. Myself if I’m on the road I prefer some type of folding chess set compared to an electronic version.

For some, though, the tactile part of real chess sets is an integral part of the experience. Not only that, but many parts of interactive play in person are non-existant if the chess is electronic. The interaction with a flesh and blood opponent is for some the most important part of the experience.