Slanted Chess Set

Slanted Chess Set

Slanted Chess Set is an innovative and conceptually rich chess set design that reimagines the traditional game through a metaphorical interpretation of warfare and defeat. Created by designers Süha Süzen, Asım Kaya, and Mahmut Çankaya in 2019, this distinctive chess set features uniquely crafted pieces made from premium Elazig marble, sourced from Turkey, known for its superior texture and durability. The design's most notable feature is its ingenious integration of form and symbolism, where chess pieces are engineered with angled bases that allow them to stand upright only when positioned on the specially designed chessboard, representing their active status in battle. When pieces are captured and removed from the board, they cannot maintain an upright position, physically manifesting their defeat in the game. The set's minimalist aesthetic is achieved through abstract interpretations of traditional chess pieces, with heights ranging from 40mm for pawns to 60mm for kings. The chessboard itself deviates from conventional design by incorporating recessed squares rather than a flat surface, creating a unique playing field that complements the pieces' distinctive geometry. The entire set is thoughtfully packaged in a 320 x 320 x 46 mm box featuring vacuum-formed plastic and cardboard elements, designed to showcase the natural beauty of the marble while ensuring proper protection. This Iron A' Design Award-winning creation in the Toys, Games and Hobby Products Design category successfully combines functional innovation with artistic expression, offering both an engaging gaming experience and an elegant decorative piece that can serve as a sophisticated gift or exhibition object.

chess design innovation, marble craftsmanship, strategic game aesthetics, contemporary board games, minimalist chess pieces, abstract game design

— Adam Dawson