Tri-Chess
Tri-Chess at your next game night?
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- Designer Anthony Patton
- Publisher Tri-Chess
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You play chess on a hexagonal board featuring black and white hex spaces, designed for three players. The pieces start in familiar positions, but their movements adapt to the hex grid. Kings and rooks move in six directions, queens and bishops in twelve, and pawns move diagonally forward. The game challenges players to manage complex moves and the dynamics of three opponents simultaneously.
Who Is This Game For?
Tri-Chess targets fans of abstract strategy and experienced chess players looking for a new challenge. It is designed exclusively for three players and has medium complexity, requiring familiarity with standard chess rules and patience for the unusual movement patterns.
How It Works
The game uses grid movement on a hexagonal board. Each piece moves differently: kings and rooks move to adjacent hexes in six directions, queens and bishops move by jumping over hexes in twelve directions. Pawns move diagonally forward and capture differently than in standard chess. Special rules govern castling, promotion, and moves blocked by occupied hexes. The aim is to outmaneuver the other two players.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Anthony Patton in 1980, Tri-Chess adapts classic chess mechanics to a three-player hexagonal board. Despite sharing a name with a 1986 variant by George R. Dekle Sr., it differs significantly in board design and piece rules. Its unique three-player setup and adapted piece movements distinguish it among abstract strategy games.
Pro
- Unique three-player chess variant
- Hexagonal board with innovative piece movement
- Familiar chess pieces with adapted rules
Contra
- Only for exactly three players
- More complex movement rules than classic chess
- No official age or playtime information available
Setting & atmosphere
The game takes place in an abstract strategic environment on a hexagonal board. It adapts the classic chess theme for three players without a specific historical or thematic backdrop.
Tips for beginners
Take time to understand hexagonal board movements before starting to play.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Tri-Chess is designed exclusively for three players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
No official playtime is given; duration depends on player experience and pace.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of standard chess is helpful since many rules are adapted.
How does this compare to similar games?
Patton’s 1980 Tri-Chess differs from George R. Dekle Sr.’s 1986 version in board layout and piece rules.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and lack of age guidelines, it is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The grid movement mechanic on a hexagonal board with adapted chess piece moves is central.
Fazit
Tri-Chess offers a distinctive chess variant for exactly three players, combining classical elements with new movement mechanics. Recommended for fans of abstract strategy, but better suited for experienced players.
Tri-Chess at your next game night?
Add Tri-Chess to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Tri-Chess to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
