Dragonchess (1985) – Board Game Guys

Dragonchess

Dragonchess is a three-dimensional fantasy chess variant created by Gary Gygax, co-creator of the famed role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons. The game was introduced in 1985 in issue No. 100 of Dragon Magazine. The game is played on three 8×12 boards stacked above each other. The top board represents the air, the middle board represents the land, and the lower board is the subterranean world. The Dragonchess game pieces (42 per player) are an ensemble of characters and monsters inspired or derived from fantasy settings in Dungeons & Dragons.

Why is Dragonchess Popular?

Dragonchess is significant because it is a unique and challenging variant of chess that adds a new level of complexity to the game. The three-dimensional aspect of the game adds a new layer of strategy and tactics that is not present in traditional chess. Additionally, the game’s connection to Dungeons & Dragons, one of the most popular and influential role-playing games of all time, has helped to increase its popularity among fans of the fantasy genre.

Game Components of Dragonchess

Board: Consists of three vertically stacked 8×12 boards, representing the sky, ground, and underworld.

Pieces: 42 pieces per player, including characters and monsters from Dungeons and Dragons, such as the Dragon, Unicorn, Thief, Mage, and King.

Pieces’ Abilities: Each piece has unique movement and capture rules, such as the Dragon’s ability to capture from afar, the Unicorn’s knight-like moves, and the Mage’s queen-like moves on the middle board.

How To Setup Dragonchess

To set up Dragonchess, players arrange the three boards vertically, with the top board representing the sky, the middle board the ground, and the bottom board the underworld. Each player places their pieces according to a specific starting setup. For example, the Gold Elemental starts at 3g1, and the Dragon, which cannot move off the top board, has a unique starting position.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Players take turns, with the GOLD player moving first, followed by the SCARLET player.

Piece Movements: Pieces move and capture according to their specific abilities, with some pieces restricted to certain boards or having special abilities like capturing from afar.

Game Objective: The game is won by delivering checkmate to the enemy King, similar to traditional chess.

Player Experience

Playing Dragonchess can be a complex and engaging experience, requiring strategic thinking and familiarity with the unique abilities of each piece. The three-dimensional setup adds a new layer of depth to traditional chess, making each move more intricate and challenging. Players need to balance short-term tactics with long-term strategies, considering the interactions between pieces on different levels.

Pros

Immersive Experience: The fantasy setting and unique pieces make the game highly immersive for fans of Dungeons and Dragons and chess.

Strategic Depth: The three-dimensional board and varied piece abilities add significant complexity and interest to the game.

Creativity: The game encourages creative thinking and planning.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The rules and piece movements can be confusing for new players, requiring a significant amount of time to learn.

Complex Setup: Setting up the game can be cumbersome due to the three-board structure and numerous pieces.

Lengthy Games: Games can be quite long due to the complexity and the need for careful consideration of each move.

Personal Thoughts on Dragonchess

Dragonchess is ideal for players who enjoy both chess and fantasy settings, particularly fans of Dungeons and Dragons. It is a game that rewards patience and strategic thinking, making it a great choice for those looking to challenge themselves beyond traditional chess. However, it may not be the best fit for casual players or those who prefer simpler, quicker games.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.