Chess enthusiasts and collectors often face a challenging dilemma: the desire for a beautiful wooden chess set that can survive the often rough-and-tumble world of regular play.
Enter the surprising solution: a plastic chess set with the exquisite look of wood.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the design, craftsmanship, and practicality of this unique “Bobby Fischer” Plastic Chess Set.
First Things First…
Have you ever loaned someone a treasured wooden chess set, only to have it returned with knocks and dents?
You can agree with me that it’s a not-so-pleasant feeling.
When we see something we cherish being treated with less respect than we expect, it can be quite upsetting.
Fortunately, this plastic chess set that looks like a traditional wooden one was created and it’s proving to be more than useful.
This set is perfect for both casual players who want a hassle-free gaming experience and purists who appreciate the visual appeal of wood grain.
When you first lay eyes on the chess set, what’s immediately striking is the fidelity of the wood grain design.
The design on each piece is so realistic that it’s hard to tell that it’s not made of wood.
The white pieces have a flowing grain throughout, reminiscent of light woods like maple or birch.
The rooks are sizeable, the knights feature an impressively sculpted mane, and the bishops, queen, and king stand tall and distinguished.
This 4.25-inch set requires a board with at least 2.25-inch squares to host its grandeur comfortably.
The dark ebony pieces are designed to mimic the look of dark ebony.
Their high gloss finish reflects light in a way typical of an expertly varnished wooden set.
It’s not uncommon for those encountering the set at chess tournaments to do a double-take.
The pieces invite a second guess, persuading even experienced players to question the material at their fingertips.
The confusion about whether the set is made of plastic or wood is a testament to the craftsmanship of the set.
It’s entirely reasonable to question why someone would opt for a faux wooden chess set.
The answer is simple. There’s a segment of chess players who adore something more exclusive than the standard plastic club set but necessitate something more resilient than fragile wood.
A Closer Look at the Pieces
- The king piece is a grand presence on the board, standing majestically and exuding a sense of authority. It measures 4.25 inches in height.
- The queen piece is the centerpiece of the set, elegantly designed with a crown that captures the essence of traditional chess iconography. She is beautifully complemented by the surrounding court.
- The bishops are sleek and contemporary, with a mitre cut that feels both modern and classic.
- The knights are designed to capture a sense of motion and combat-readiness.
- The rooks are formidable in size, providing a sturdy bulwark at the corners of the board.
Why Choose the “Bobby Fischer” Wood Grain Set?
The “Bobby Fischer” Wood Grain Plastic Chess Set is a great choice for those who want the look of a wooden chess set but the practicality of plastic.
It’s priced between $100-$120, making it an affordable mid-range option for players of all levels.
The set is crafted with intelligent design, melding robust practicality with the distinguished look of finely crafted wood.
It’s a masterpiece of imitation, a set that not only serves its purpose on the chessboard but also captivates as a showpiece.
The pieces have a significant weight, tipping the scales at over three and a half pounds collectively, which adds to the play experience and further blurs the line between this set and its purely wooden counterparts.
Whether you’re a tournament regular, a home game enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the artistry of chess pieces, the “Bobby Fischer” Wood Grain Plastic Chess Set is an excellent choice.
Let me know if you found this review helpful.