Super Mario Chess Set Review – Components, Quality & Who It’s For

The Super Mario Chess Set is one of the most charming themed chess sets available today—perfect for Nintendo fans, families, and collectors who want a fun twist on the classic strategy game. This review breaks down the quality, gameplay experience, components, and who should buy it so you can decide if this iconic crossover deserves a spot in your collection.

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Quick Summary

• Theme: Super Mario universe with sculpted character pieces
• Best For: Families, Mario fans, collectors, casual gamers
• Skill Level: Easy to learn, identical rules to classic chess

What Is the Super Mario Chess Set?

This themed chess set swaps traditional pieces for beloved Nintendo characters. Mario and Luigi lead the Mushroom Kingdom team, while Bowser and his minions take the opposing side. The game preserves traditional chess rules but adds a bright, nostalgic aesthetic that appeals to players of all ages.

It's not a "Mario twist" on chess—it’s official, standard chess with fully sculpted pieces based on Nintendo's characters.

What’s Inside the Box?

The set typically includes:

• 32 character pieces split between two factions:
  • Mario, Luigi, Peach, Yoshi (Kingdom team)
  • Bowser, Bowser Jr., Goombas, and Koopa Troopas (Koopa team)
• Custom graphic board with Mushroom Kingdom art
• Collector-style storage insert for safely holding the figures
• Rulesheet with roles for each character piece

The sculpts are colourful, charming, and immediately recognizable—making it a fantastic display piece even when not being played.

Component Quality

The Super Mario Chess Set is well-produced, especially considering its accessible price point. The highlights include:

• Durable plastic minis with vibrant factory paint
• Solid board stock that folds cleanly and lays flat
• Characters sized appropriately to easily identify chess roles
• In-box organizer preventing piece damage during storage

While not "premium resin" quality, it exceeds typical mass-market board game standards and holds up well to repeated family use.

Gameplay Experience

The game plays exactly like standard chess, meaning players familiar with chess will feel right at home. The Mario theme enhances casual appeal without altering gameplay depth.

This makes it:

• Perfect for teaching kids chess using characters they love
• Fun for collectors who enjoy thematic versions of classic games
• Suitable for display on a game table or shelf between sessions

Who Should Buy the Super Mario Chess Set?

• Families wanting a kid-friendly, recognizable chess set
• Nintendo fans who love Mario-themed collectibles
• Chess enthusiasts looking for a fun variant to add to their collection
• Gift shoppers—this is one of the easiest themed games to gift

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High charm factor—excellent as a gift
• Durable, colourful miniatures
• Affordable price point
• Great for kids and casual players

Cons

• Not a deep reimagining—plays exactly like classic chess
• Pieces aren’t hand-painted (factory paint only)
• Hardcore collectors may prefer more premium materials

Image Suggestions

• Hero banner: Full chess set displayed with Mario vs. Bowser pieces
• Piece close-ups: Mario (king), Bowser (king), Peach, and Yoshi
• Gameplay: Two players mid-match on the Mushroom Kingdom board

FAQs – Super Mario Chess Set (tap + to expand)