Classic Chess

This project is a compact, travel-friendly chess and checkers set designed with a focus on utility and classical aesthetics. The visual style of the pieces mimics the iconic 2D diagrams found in chess textbooks and educational literature, ensuring immediate recognition and high clarity for players of all levels.

Design Philosophy:
The goal was to move away from abstract 3D shapes and return to the roots of chess theory. The silhouette-based design provides high contrast and readability, similar to reading a chess puzzle in a book.

"Pause & Play" Sliding Lid:
The integrated sliding cover is designed to lock the pieces in place. You can close the board mid-game, transport it, and resume later with the position perfectly preserved.

Click & lock:

• Ultra-Compact Profile:

   

  • Board dimensions: 178 × 178 mm.
  • Height (Open): 8 mm.
  • Height (Closed with lid): 12 mm.

  • This slim profile makes it easy to carry in a backpack or laptop bag.

     

• Includes a complete set of Chess pieces and an additional set of Checkers/Draughts.
• AMS & Standard Printing: The .3mf files are prepared for both multi-material systems (AMS) and standard single-extruder printers (using manual color swaps or separate parts).

Printing Recommendations:

• Tested with PLA.
• Nozzle: 0.4mm recommended for preserving the fine details of the piece icons.
• Supports: only Lid element.
• Infill: 10-15% is sufficient.

P.S. 
Study #1. "Chasing Two Hares" (Richard Réti, 1921)

This study is one of the most famous in the world. Once you set up the position, it will look absurd: White seems to be hopelessly losing.

The Position:

• White: King on h8, Pawn on c6.
• Black: King on a6, Pawn on h5.

The Task: White to move. The goal is to make a draw.

The Challenge: The Black pawn on h5 is running unstoppably toward becoming a Queen (the White King is too far away to catch it). Meanwhile, the Black King is about to capture the White pawn on c6. Salvation seems impossible. However, the White King has an amazing route!

Study #2. "The Rook's Cunning" (Barbier and Saavedra, 1895)

This study was often shown to explain the theme of "pawn promotion." There are only 4 pieces here, but the solution contains an incredible plot twist.

The Position:

• White: King on b6, Pawn on c6.
• Black: Rook on d5, King on a1 (in the corner).

The Task: White to move and win.

Hint for your thinking: The White pawn wants to advance to c7, but the Black Rook will interfere with checks or try to get behind the pawn. Your task is to promote the pawn to a Queen. But be careful: at the end of the variation, Black has set a tricky stalemate trap! To win, you will have to find a very non-standard move.