Harry Potter Chess By Mattel - R9315

Our whole family has enjoyed the Harry Potter books, movies, and other related items.  In particular, my son Alex (who is now fifteen) enjoyed Harry Potter stories when he was younger, and he still likes things that are based on the books.  Alex is also in Chess Club in high school.  One of the gifts we gave him for Christmas last year that we have all been enjoying is Mattel's Harry Potter Chess Set.

Description

The box this set comes in is red, and it features images of three of the main characters from the Harry Potter movies (Harry and his best friends Ron and Hermione).  There is also an inset photo of the scene from the first film, which features a larger than life sized "Wizard's Chess" set.

The actual game inside the box is a nicely themed set.  The board is pretty typical; constructed of heavy duty cardboard laminated with a grey and blue chess board.  The pieces are constructed of light grey (with, for some reason, tiny blue speckles) and dark grey hard plastic.  Aside from being plastic (and not life size), they do look very similar to the Wizard's Chess game featured Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone film.  For example the knight is on a horse, swinging a mace.

Use and Experience

Basic chess instructions are included with the game.  This isn't different than any other chess; it is just a themed set.  That being said, this would be a great way to get younger kids interested in chess.  Even my 11 year old daughter wants to learn to play when we pull this set out.

We have had some good games of chess with this set, although I sometimes have a hard time remembering even which pieces can move which directions.  Alex is better at the game.  It is sturdy enough to last for years, and I do like that the pieces are lightweight and durable.  

The box states that this game is appropriate for ages 8 and up.  I agree with that assessment, although younger kids may find the rules and strategies of chess difficult at first.  To be honest, I'm 41 years old and I still find it difficult.  That being said, this is an excellent game to develop strategic thinking and it is one that kids can play far beyond childhood.  The Harry Potter theming is just a nice way to get them hooked.

Cost and Where to Buy

I bought this game for Alex at a Barnes and Noble store for twenty dollars last December.  It may be harder to find on store shelves right now, but game stores and bookstores may be carrying it.  Amazon.com has this game listed for over seventy dollars at the current time.  It is a fun game, but that is clearly overpriced.

Everyone in our family enjoys Mattel's Harry Potter Chess set.  It's a nicely themed set that can lure kids into learning a difficult game they can enjoy throughout their lives.

Recommend this product? Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 20.00
Type of Toy: Board Game
Age Range of Child: Kids to Teens