I was hesitant to buy this because there are so many mixed reviews out there. Now that I have the set and have looked it over, I am satisfied across the board.

When I searched for "Harry Potter Wizard Chess" I got a number of Amazon selling sites. As I understand it, a lot of those sites are for third party sellers who are selling the original version of this Chess set that came out right after the Potter movie debuted. These are "collectibles", and that's always a dicey product to buy through Amazon. Some are new-in-box, some are used, some are misdescribed, some are in poor condition. As I type this there are eight sites - this one, a site for a super high end set, and six sites selling collectibles from a wide variety of sellers, most costing in the well-over-a-hundred-dollars range. I just wanted a fun gift chess set, and this one fit the bill. It is the same as the collectibles, but must be a later run that doesn't count as a "first edition".

Now, for the set. The pieces are detailed and look sharp. You know how some molded figures, especially bigger ones, are a little twisted or misshapened when they hold swords and whatnot? Well, these pieces are "harder" and don't droop or twist. The sizes are impressive. (This set is for three brothers ages 3 to 8, and they are newly into chess and nuts for Potter. This works as a chess set, but it also works as a really neat collection of action figures.) The pieces are molded hard plastic. The bigger ones are a bit top heavy, but not exceptionally tippy. (For what it's worth, the bases are open at the bottom. If you wanted to you could put a weight in the base, (like putty or a quarter coin), and tipping wouldn't be a problem at all.

The board is folded in quarters and unfolds to standard size but is a little cheesy. Separate wood boards generally cost much more than this entire set does, and it would be hard to find a new board much bigger than the one that comes with this set, so I'm not sure what the best option is. If you want an oversize board that gives the pieces lots of room a cheap oversize vinyl board might be the way to go.

As to the rest, the box is fairly durable. The two bags that hold the pieces have drawstrings and hold the pieces comfortably. The set I received was clearly "new in box". No parts or pieces were missing.

Bottom line? The set looks great and the pieces are impressive. It might not be terribly practical for regular chess play, (mostly because of how crowded the board gets), but for an exciting novelty game of chess for kids it really seems to hit the spot. The price struck me as reasonable for the size, detail and quality of the pieces, and as I say you couldn't get this quality "Harry Potter" action play figures any other way. I'm pretty sure the kids are going to go nuts over this, and since you can't play chess with HotWheels it counts as a nice change-up present wise.

What a great Harry Potter chess set for the price! The pieces are very detailed and the game board is attractive. Although the board folds into quarters, it stays quite flat when opened and the fold seams are not noticeable. The thick board (cardboard) seems durable if used with reasonable care. The chess men have a good heft to them. Although some pieces are a bit top-heavy, if moved carefully around the board, they should not topple over. The bags holding the chess pieces are attractive, but if the pieces are not arranged just right in their bags, the lid of the box won't close completely. Still, excellent value for the modest price.

Great novelty chess set for the price. Every fan of Harry Potter would be pleased to have this set in their home. The plastic pieces are large enough for a 4 year olds hands and sturdy enough for a 2 year old to swat. The craftsmanship of each piece is surprisingly excellent. A great fun way to learn chess while putting yourself in Harry, Ron, and Hermoine's places.

This is a pretty good chess set. Honestly I wish the pieces were made out of better material but I understand about the possibility of the pieces breaking while playing. I just bought mine for display purposes so I may search the Internet more for a higher quality one. But, this one is pretty good. Also, the board is a cardboard type one that folds like most board games. Overall I'm satisfied with the quality for the money. I just may spend more money one day for a better quality one.

Arrived safe and sound. The design of the whole package is great. But the chess itself is a little light-weighted. The chessboard is foldable and you should describe it clearly.