Despite having Chess right there in the name, Five Elements Chess isn’t exactly the traditional battle of kings, queens and bishops you might be expecting.
Available now on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S for £11.99, as well as other formats, Candleman Games’ latest release instead combines Five Elements theory with match-three gameplay to create a spell-duelling experience.
At A Glance
- Game: Five Elements Chess
- Developer: Candleman Games
- Publisher: Candleman Games
- Formats: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation, Switch
- Price: £11.99
- Genre: Match-Three / Spell Duel
More Magic Than Checkmate
The idea is relatively simple, with match-three mechanics forming the basis for a battle of spells. The developers promise straightforward rules but plenty of strategic depth, while the mixture of strategy and luck is designed to make the experience accessible.
There’s also a calm, Zen-inspired visual style that should make Five Elements Chess feel considerably more relaxed than its name might initially suggest.
Challenge Another Player
Five Elements Chess supports both local and online PvP, giving players the option to settle their spell-duelling abilities against friends nearby or opponents online.
The game is also available on PlayStation, PC and Nintendo Switch, alongside its Xbox release. If it is that Xbox edition you’re after, the Xbox Store will sort you out.
So if you arrived expecting to spend your evening worrying about checkmates, rooks and pawns, Five Elements Chess may have a rather different plan for you. Instead, it’s all about matching, strategy and magical duels – with considerably less concern for whether your king is in danger.
