Best Chess Two Player Games Reviewed: Top 5 in 2025
For chess two player enthusiasts, try Onitama. Simple yet strategic, it’s like if chess took a yoga class.
Choosing the ideal ‘chess two player’ board game is like finding the perfect pizza topping—everyone’s got their own taste! We game enthusiasts always look for strategy, replayability, and the all-important fun factor. After countless game nights filled with laughter, rivalry, and occasionally, spilled snacks, we’ve curated our top picks. Our list includes games that not only challenge your strategic mind but also keep you glued to the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a grandmaster or a newbie, these games promise to deliver excitement and challenge in equal measure. So get ready to discover your next favorite game!
On this list:
5 Onitama
Onitama is a chess-like game that mixes martial arts with mind-bending strategy. It’s easy to learn and a blast to play. My buddy Tom, who always claims he’s the master of all things chess two player, ended up losing to his 12-year-old niece. The game has a simple 5×5 grid and just five pieces per player, making it quick but full of depth. The unique card-based movement system keeps every match fresh and fair, and no game feels the same. It’s a perfect fit for those who love chess but want a quicker fix.
4 The Duke
The Duke is similar to chess but adds a tactical twist with its tile-based play. Each piece in The Duke has a unique movement pattern printed on it. But here’s the kicker: when you move a piece, you flip it over and it gains a new movement! Playing this game made us feel like wizard chess champions, minus the castle walls smashing down around us. It’s the unpredictability and the strategic depth that keep players coming back for more. Great for those who like chess but also enjoy the thrill of discovering new strategies mid-game.
3 Tash-Kalar: Arena of Legends
In Tash-Kalar, players face off in magical duels. It’s like chess went to Hogwarts. Each player commands a team of mythical creatures with unique powers, trying to outsmart and outmaneuver each other. When we played, my friend Andy kept summoning creatures left and right, while I was just trying not to get dunked by a dragon. It’s a blend of strategy, tactical depth, and fun. The game’s dynamic and constantly changing board state make it a favorite for those interested in a chess two player experience with a fantasy twist.
2 Hive
Hive is a clever game where players maneuver their insect tiles to surround the opponent’s queen. It’s quick to learn and tough to master, much like chess. My pal Gary tried convincing us that Hive was just checkers with bugs, but boy was he wrong! The beauty of Hive is there’s no board—just arrange the pieces on any flat surface. Every game is different because the playing field is constantly evolving. It’s great for those who like chess but want a more organic, free-form game experience.
1 Twilight Struggle
Twilight Struggle takes the top spot due to its masterful blend of strategy and history. This game, themed around the Cold War, is like chess on steroids where each player tries to gain worldwide influence. When Dave and I play, it’s always a battle of wits with tons of nail-biting moments, like when I barely managed to avoid nuclear war. The game is complex but rewards those who invest the time. Its balance of political maneuvering and strategic planning makes it the best chess two player board game for fans seeking depth and challenge.
