Chess boards with built in maps 

The game of chess offers a unique experience with every playing. Because it is so simple in application but incredibly complex in theory, every player experiences the game differently, and no two games are ever alike. As chess applies our mathematic, logical, sequential, and strategic thinking skills, it is truly designed to both capitalize on and aid in the development of our cognitive thinking faculties.

One reason why chess is such an interesting game is because there are so many different ways to play it. Ancient forms used different pieces and modern iterations have reduced or expanded the required amount of pieces based on the purpose of the game being played. Regardless of how you play the game, though, the basics are always the same. Each piece can only move following a strict set of rules. The rook, for instance can only move horizontally and vertically across the game board.

The bishop can only move diagonally and the queen can move as far as she likes in every direction. The knight, or horse, is somewhat complicated, jumping over two squares and down one in any direction. The pawns and the king can only move one space at a time, but the pawns can only move forward, toward the opposing pieces. Chess pieces can make both interesting and practical collectibles. Hobbyists and aficionados as well as collectors like to find new and exciting piece sets to bring home, to play with, or to share with others. If you constantly play with new pieces, this is another way to keep the game fresh and exciting.

Traveling to other chess clubs to play new people gives you more exposure to the different types of pieces that are out there, which also benefits you in a social aspect. Sometimes this is the best benefit of all. Another way that chess provides a unique experience is through the game board. Again, following a simple rule of sixty-four checkered squares, it would seem that there couldn’t be much detail to distinguish one board from another.

However, that couldn’t be further from the point. Boards are made of different materials, like marble or oak, and feature many designs like chess boards with built in maps or star charts. Tournament boards have much wider squares and are designed for slower play. A Takeover Chess board is much smaller in size, to accommodate fewer pieces on a smaller battlefield.