Pressman Chess/Checkers /

The Verdict

Two classic strategy games on one board is a value proposition that rarely misses — and Pressman’s Chess/Checkers combo delivers exactly what it promises without much fuss. With a 4.4-star average across 220 ratings, this set has clearly found its audience. But is it the right set for you? Let’s break down what you’re actually getting.

What’s in the box

You get a folding cardboard board that opens to roughly 16 x 16 inches, a full set of Staunton-style chess pieces in black and ivory, and 24 checkers discs. The board folds in half, and here’s the clever part: the pieces store inside the board cavity, which closes securely with a latch. That means no separate box to lose, no loose pieces rattling around a drawer. For a game set in this price tier, that’s genuinely thoughtful design.

Real-world performance

The board surface is a standard roll-fold cardboard with a printed grid. It’s flat enough for casual play, but there’s a noticeable seam where the two halves meet. That center ridge can make pieces wobble slightly if you place them directly on the joint — a minor annoyance during intense endgames, not a dealbreaker.

The chess pieces are molded plastic with a decent Staunton profile — the king stands about 3 inches tall. They’re recognizable, stackable, and survive being knocked off the table without damage. The checkers are simple flat discs that work fine for both checkers and as spare chess pieces in a pinch.

What buyers consistently praise

Looking through the feedback, a few themes emerge. First, the storage solution wins people over: “I love that the pieces fit inside the board. My kids can get this out and put it away without losing anything.” That’s the kind of practical praise that shows up repeatedly. Second, the value proposition: getting two games for the price of one dedicated set resonates with budget-conscious shoppers. Third, the craftsmanship for the price point — people note the board feels sturdier than expected for the cost, with the hinge holding up well through repeated opening and closing.

Where it falls short

Let’s be honest about the tradeoffs. The pieces are hollow plastic and feel noticeably light — a stiff breeze or an over-eager reach across the board can knock pieces over. If you’re used to weighted tournament sets, this will feel like a toy. Some customers have noted the lacquer on the pieces can wear off with heavy use, exposing lighter plastic underneath.

The board’s cardboard construction means it won’t survive liquid spills well, and the printed grid can fade or scuff over time with aggressive play. For a casual family game night, these are acceptable compromises. For a serious player’s main set, they’re not.

Who should buy this

This set is ideal for families with kids aged 6-12 who are learning the games, casual players who want a no-fuss set for the cabin, camper, or classroom, and budget shoppers who want maximum game value for minimum spend. It’s also a solid travel companion — the self-contained storage means you can toss it in a backpack without worrying about losing pieces.

Skip it if you’re a serious chess player who wants weighted, tournament-regulation pieces, or if you need a board that will stand up to daily, vigorous use.

FAQ

Q: Are the pieces big enough for young children to handle? A: Yes — the king is about 3 inches tall, and the pieces have chunky bases that small hands can grip. However, the lightweight plastic means younger kids may knock them over more easily.

Q: Does the board stay flat when opened? A: Mostly. The hinge creates a slight center ridge, but it flattens out with use. Placing a book on the fold for a few hours can help it lay flatter initially.

Q: Can the checkers be used as replacement chess pieces? A: Technically yes, but not practically — the discs are flat and don’t distinguish between piece types. Better to keep the chess pieces together.

The Verdict

Buy it if you want a practical, affordable 2-in-1 game set for casual play, kids, or travel. The self-storing board design is genuinely clever, and the price-to-value ratio is excellent.

Skip it if you need tournament-grade pieces, want a board that will last for decades of heavy use, or prefer the feel of weighted, well-finished game pieces.

Rating: 4.2/5 — A solid, honest value that does exactly what it promises, with minor compromises that match its price point.

Where to Buy

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.