Getting a chess set for yourself, or someone else can be a really difficult decision. There are so many different styles, materials and prices. If this is your first experience in buying a chess set you may not really be aware of what is available to you. Or, if the only set you have ever owned is one of those very simple plastic and cardboard sets you may really be in for some sticker shock when you look at the really fancy sets. You can choose from a themed set that has pieces designed from pop culture or sports or you can get a more traditional war themed chess set. You can even buy the pieces and board individually and create your own customized set.

A chess set for a child who is just beginning to show an interest in chess should be fairly simple and inexpensive. This way if the pieces in the chess set get broken or lost, you can replace them without a lot of expense or trouble. They may also lose interest after just a short time and then you don't lose a big investment. But, if they are serious about chess, as many children are today, you may want to get them a better chess set. There are many child-friendly themed sets that are really fun. You can choose from the Simpsons, the Muppets, Star Wars, Cats and Dogs, or the Lord of the Rings among many others.

If none of these types of sets appeal to your more sophisticated adult tastes, you may want to look at some war themed sets. You can find a chess set with a Civil War or Revolution theme or even a theme from a particular battle. There is a set which glorifies the history of the sport of golf and another that is a depiction if the rivalry between the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox teams.

Sets can be purchased in mahogany, marble, or 24 carat gold plating. Before you buy any of these quality sets, check for durability and good construction of the pieces and the board. You may decide that this will become a family heirloom to be passed down from generation to generation.

If nothing else appeals to you, you can always design or even construct your own set with materials, boards, and individual pieces from a specialty store or online dealer.