The game is loved by England's Euro stars who use it to relax.
And with International Chess Day on the way on July 20, it’s a perfect chance to look at some supporters of the game closer to home.
There's photos from 1974 to 2006 taking in Sunderland Polytechnic, Hylton Red House, East Herrington Primary and Oxclose Junior School.
High Barnes, Hetton and Horden schools also get our attention.
If you are a king or queen of the boards, tell us more.
1. Check out these scenes
9 Wearside chess scenes to check out as the world enjoys a resurgence in the game. | se
2. Master at work
Victor Korchnoi, the world famous Soviet grandmaster, faced 25 local players in Sunderland Polytechnic in 1972. | se
3. On board in 1974
Members of the Sunderland Secondary Schools' Chess League taking part in the second annual chess congress at Hylton Red House School in 1974. | se
4. Concentrating on a 1977 scene
A game of chess helps to pass the time for (left to right) Privates Tony Semley, Clive Angell, Peter Sykes, Richard McLaughlin and George Lamie. They were based at Dykelands Road during the firefighter strike of 1977. | se