How Old is Chess Really?

It is difficult to determine ‘how old chess’ is. Our best guess is that it developed on the Indian subcontinent in the early first millennium AD. The version of chess we know today most likely dates to the 6th century AD. In this strategy game phase, this game is better known as ‘chaturanga’.

People used to play Chaturanga or ‘chess’ in an 8×8 grid. This ancient form of chess had pieces that were similar to today’s chess pieces. From there, the game slowly spread throughout South Asia and reached Europe via western trade routes.

The modern version of the game of chess developed on the European continent over the next few centuries. Around the 16th century, this game took the form of a version that we can recognize. However, who or what caused the game’s evolution remains a mystery.

Who Invented Chess in India?

While discussing the theme – ‘how old is chess’, it is important to note that almost all chess observers have reached a consensus that chess originated in India. Some researchers argue that the birth of chess occurred in the ancient city of Kannauj in India when it was still the capital of the Maukhari kingdom. One historical record states that a Maukhari ruler named Sharva Varman had gifted a chaturanga/chess set to the Persian king Khushrau II in exchange for saltpeter.

Further Reading

Now that we have discussed in detail ‘how old is chess’, we would like you to learn more about this game. Visit the Square Off website today to find more interesting blogs about our favorite strategy games. Also check out this amazing chess board cleverly produced by Square Off.