A Collectible Tribute to the Gauls

In the early 2000s, Hachette introduced a unique collector’s series for fans of Astérix: the Jeu d’Échecs Astérix. Instead of being sold as a single boxed product, the chess pieces were released issue by issue, allowing subscribers to slowly build a full set.

While a standard chess set features 32 pieces, the Hachette edition eventually expanded to 40 figurines. This allowed for alternate roles and bonus characters. Falbala, for example, was available as an additional queen, and Idéfix (Dogmatix) appeared as a rook. These extras gave collectors a flexible display while remaining true to the spirit of the comics.

Craftsmanship and Presentation

Each figurine stands roughly six centimeters tall, with some variation depending on the character. The level of detail in sculpting and painting has been widely praised, giving the collection lasting appeal as both a game and a display piece. Hachette also provided a cardboard chessboard measuring about 45 by 45 centimeters, ensuring that the set could be played as well as exhibited. All in all the board didn’t do the set much justice.

Subscribers sometimes received special gifts. Among the most notable was a branded chess clock, offered to early sign-ups as a premium item. This bonus, though not part of the official numbering, has since become a highly desirable piece for collectors.

Each figurine came accompanied by explanatory material. These could be kept together in a map. Step-by-step subscribers not only got to learn the rules of chess, but also were introduced to the characters.

Complete List of Chess Pieces

The collection consists of 40 figurines, covering the full cast of Gauls, Romans, and supporting characters. Here is an overview of the characters and their assigned chess roles:

Legacy of the Collection

Today, complete 40-piece sets are highly collectible, especially those that include the official chessboard and subscriber gifts such as the chess clock. Individual figurines still appear on the second-hand market, but assembling a full set with all extras is a challenge.

The Hachette Astérix chess set stands out as one of the most ambitious pieces of Astérix merchandise ever created. It merges the world of comics with the timeless strategy of chess, letting Gauls and Romans wage battle across the checkered board.

Some pieces