Chess is a two player competitive game. The game is played on a square chess board, 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 chess boards

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

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

One of the hottest items that can be bought on auction sites today are vintage chess sets. They make a great collector’s item because of the intricate artwork and carving that craftsmen incorporate for each of the individual pieces.

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

Every member of the chess set has a way of moving and is part of the story–all the way to until 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. Ooh 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 others, electronic chess is a great way to match wits with themselves, a partner, or a computer. Myself if I’m on the road I prefer some type of travel chess compared to an electronic version.

For others, however, the tactile part of real chess sets is an integral part of the experience. Not only that, but many things 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.