2025’s Best Chess Video Game Board Game Reviews: Top 6
We've played many, but Tash-Kalar truly stands out as the best chess video game-themed board game around.
Looking for the best chess video game-themed board games? We’ve got you covered! Our team got together, brewed some coffee, and played a ton of games to bring you the top six picks. We focused on games with strategic depth, accessibility for newbies, and pure fun factor. We had plenty of laughs, a few arguments, and maybe one or two board-flipping moments. But hey, all in the name of research, right? So, whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious, these games will satisfy your craving for strategic face-offs. Let’s explore our favorites!
On this list:
6 Onitama
Onitama feels like a Zen version of chess. Two schools face off on a beautiful board. Each player uses a limited set of moves dictated by cards available to both players. My friend Pat insists it’s like chess had a baby with a fortune cookie. Every game is quick and thoughtful, and mistakes aren’t as punishing as in chess. It’s a great choice for when you’re in the mood for some strategic planning without needing to conquer a master’s degree in the process.
5 The Duke
If you ever played chess and wished the pieces had a bit more drama, give The Duke a whirl. It’s like chess after marrying a drama queen. Pieces have unique moves that change depending on how they’re flipped, keeping everyone on their toes. I once told my buddy Greg it was like chess went on a rollercoaster, and ever since, he can’t stop playing. The constantly changing dynamics keep the game refreshing. It’s perfect for a twist on the classic game.
4 Hive
Hive is a bug-infested goodness game that has zero setup time. Each piece represents a different insect with unique abilities. There’s no board, just the pieces. It feels like chess with a fever, and who doesn’t want that? Joe from our group swears this game taught him how to love bugs. No chessboard to lug around – Hive fits in your pocket, and the strategy is just buzzing with excitement.
3 Arimaa
Arimaa was designed to be tough for computers and easy for humans. It’s like the revenge of the chess nerds. With more pieces and a bigger board, it requires thinking outside of the rook’s box. Last time our friend Sarah ruined her strategy by accidentally sending her elephant into a hole, we were rolling with laughter. It’s satisfying and complex – perfect for people who enjoy playing chess with a twist of unpredictability.
2 Shogi
Imagine if chess pieces could come back from the grave and work for the other team. Enter Shogi, aka Japanese Chess. It’s a wild ride, with dropped pieces that make our group feel like we’re in an epic soap opera. My friend Tim always says it’s the game where betrayal is just a tactical play. If you’re tired of predictable moves in chess, Shogi throws many curveballs your way. It’s a twisty take on classic strategy.
1 Tash-Kalar: Arena of Legends
Tash-Kalar is the board game equivalent of the best chess video game. This game is not just about moving pieces; it’s about summoning legendary creatures and performing fantastical battles. It blends elements of chess with a magical flair. This game stood out in our group because every game felt like casting spells in a wizard duel. From the moment you start, you’re not just playing – you’re engaging in an epic narrative. Transforming pawns into mighty creatures and capturing opponents feels as grand as it sounds. That’s what makes this game the best on our list.
