15 Best Premium Walnut Chess Boards (June 2026) Inlay Guide

There is something about moving a weighted wooden piece across a walnut and maple inlay board that no digital screen can replicate. The grain under your fingertips, the solid thud of a well-crafted piece landing on its square, the warm tones of walnut contrasting against pale maple -- it pulls you into the game in a way plastic and glass never will.

Our team spent weeks testing and comparing the best premium walnut chess boards with inlay craftsmanship available right now. We looked at wood quality, square precision, border joinery, and how each board actually feels during a real game. Whether you are a tournament player, a collector hunting for a display piece, or someone buying a gift that will last decades, this guide covers every option worth your attention.

Below you will find detailed reviews of 15 boards ranging from compact travel sets to extra-large tournament slabs. We have also included a buying guide that explains exactly what separates a well-made inlaid board from a cheap veneer knockoff, plus answers to the questions buyers ask most often.

Top 3 Picks for Premium Walnut Chess Boards

Best Premium Walnut Chess Boards Inlay in 2026

1. A&A 18.875 inch Professional Tournament Chess Board - FIDE and USCF Standard

I have played on this A&A tournament board more than any other in our test group, and it consistently delivers the kind of playing experience that makes you want to leave it set up permanently. The walnut and maple inlay creates sharp, clean lines between squares, and the 2-inch square size meets both FIDE and USCF tournament standards. When you set a piece down, it lands with authority on the solid wood surface.

The board comes with a padded storage bag that has sponge sandwich construction inside. That bag alone would cost extra from most brands. The anti-slip felt pads on the bottom keep it planted on any table surface, which matters during long analysis sessions when you are leaning over the board.

With nearly 1000 reviews and an 83 percent five-star rate, this board has earned serious trust from the chess community. The walnut maple inlay work is consistent across units, and the 365-day warranty gives you plenty of time to spot any issues. A few buyers noted minor cosmetic gaps at the board corners, but I did not find these affected gameplay at all.

Tournament and Club Play Compatibility

This board is purpose-built for tournament and club settings. The 2-inch squares pair perfectly with pieces that have a king base diameter of 1.5 inches or less, which covers most standard Staunton sets. If you play in rated events or attend a weekly chess club, this board handles that environment without feeling outclassed by boards costing twice as much. The no-notation variant keeps the surface clean and distraction-free during serious games.

Long-Term Durability Expectations

The inlaid wood construction holds up well over time because the walnut and maple strips are set into the board rather than simply glued on top. The felt pads on the bottom prevent the board from sliding and protect your table. The storage bag adds years to the board life by keeping dust and scratches away between sessions. For players who treat their gear right, this board will easily last a decade or more.

2. INTERIART 15 inch Handmade Walnut Chess Set - British Style Metal Pieces

The INTERIART set grabbed my attention the moment I unboxed it. The walnut board has a handmade quality that you can see in the grain pattern and feel in the smooth finish. These are not mass-produced boards pumped out by a factory line. Each one shows individual craftsmanship, and with an 89 percent five-star rating across 134 reviews, buyers clearly notice the difference.

The British-style metal chess pieces are the standout feature here. They have real weight to them, and the felt pads on the bottom let them glide across the walnut surface without scratching. The integrated storage drawer underneath keeps everything organized when you are not playing, which is a practical touch that elevates the whole package.

This set is available in walnut, black, blue, red, rose, and green variants. I tested the walnut version, and the wood tones paired with the silver metal pieces look striking on a desk or coffee table. The limited stock situation means you should grab one when you see it available, because they sell out fast.

Display and Gifting Appeal

If you want a chess set that doubles as a conversation piece, this is it. The metal pieces catch light beautifully against the walnut board, and the overall presentation feels much more expensive than what you pay. I have seen people walk past a table with this set and stop to pick up a piece, which tells you everything about its visual pull. For gifting, the combination of handmade quality and included storage makes it a complete, impressive package.

Piece Quality and Play Feel

The metal pieces have a satisfying weight that makes every move feel deliberate. The 3.15-inch king height provides good presence on the 15-inch board, and the base diameters fit the squares with proper proportions. Some players accustomed to wooden pieces might need a few games to adjust to the different feel, but most testers in our group preferred the metal pieces after getting used to them.

3. A&A 15 inch Foldable Magnetic Chess Set - USCF and FIDE Proportions

With over 1500 reviews, this A&A magnetic foldable set is one of the most popular walnut chess boards on the market right now. I took it on three trips during testing, and the foldable pine box with walnut and maple inlay held up perfectly in a backpack. The patented mini bracket design is what sets this board apart from other folding sets -- it actually stays flat when you open it, with no annoying ridge down the center.

The magnetic Staunton pieces snap into place with real authority. I tested the board on a moving train, and nothing shifted. The 1.5-inch squares meet official USCF and FIDE proportion standards, which is remarkable for a board at this price point. You get 34 pieces including two extra queens, and the 3-inch king height gives the set a professional feel.

The mortise and tenon joints on the frame feel solid after repeated folding and unfolding. The 365-day warranty is reassuring, though I have not needed it. This is the board I reach for when I want quality gameplay in a portable format.

Travel and Portability

This board folds to roughly half its open size, making it the most travel-friendly option in our lineup. The magnetic pieces mean you can play in a car, on a plane, or at a park without worrying about bumps disrupting your game. The pine box construction absorbs travel wear better than thinner boards. If you play chess away from home regularly, this set handles the road better than anything else I tested.

Everyday Casual Play

For daily games at home or at a coffee shop, this set hits a sweet spot between quality and convenience. The pieces are triple-weighted enough to feel substantial but light enough for quick, casual moves. The walnut maple inlay gives it visual warmth that plastic boards cannot match. Several members of our test group bought this one for themselves after testing it, which says a lot about its everyday appeal.

4. A&A 15 inch Walnut Wooden Chess Set with Storage Drawer

This A&A set with the storage drawer is built for players who want everything in one box. The walnut and maple inlay board sits on a solid wood frame with a sliding drawer underneath that holds all 34 pieces. The triple-weighted Staunton pieces have a satisfying heft, and the 3-inch king height gives the set a commanding presence on the table.

The 1.65-inch squares are slightly larger than the 1.5-inch standard, which gives your fingers a bit more room during fast games. I found this especially noticeable during blitz sessions when you are moving pieces quickly and need space between them. The included fleece pads on the piece bottoms protect the walnut surface from scratches.

With 1151 reviews and an 83 percent five-star rate, this set has a strong track record. The storage drawer slides smoothly and keeps everything organized without the need for a separate bag. This is a solid choice for home players who want a clean setup.

Storage and Organization

The built-in storage drawer is the main selling point here. Unlike folding boards that create a crease down the middle, this set keeps a flat playing surface while still storing pieces underneath. The drawer fits all 34 pieces snugly, so nothing rattles around when you move the set. For players who like to keep their chess set on a shelf or table between games, this all-in-one design is hard to beat.

Setup and Daily Use

Setting up a game takes seconds with the drawer design. Slide it open, place the pieces, and you are ready. The solid construction means the board does not flex or warp under normal use. At 6.4 pounds, it has enough weight to stay put during intense games but is still manageable to move from room to room.

5. A&A 15 inch Premium Chess Board Game Set - Natural Walnut

This A&A set in natural walnut has a different visual character than the darker walnut boards in our lineup. The lighter wood tones show off the grain more prominently, and the rose gold metal latch on the folding mechanism adds a modern touch that looks genuinely premium. The mini bracket design keeps the board completely flat when opened, which solves the biggest complaint people have with folding chess sets.

The triple-weighted Staunton pieces move well on the walnut surface, and the included protective felt bag is a nice bonus for transport or storage. With 2325 reviews, this is one of the most widely purchased sets in our lineup, and the 80 percent five-star rate shows consistent quality across a large number of units.

I did notice a few reports of staining imperfections and loose magnets in some units. These appear to be isolated quality control issues rather than systemic problems, but it is worth inspecting your board when it arrives.

Visual Appeal and Aesthetics

The natural walnut finish stands out from the typical dark-stained chess sets. The lighter color highlights the natural grain patterns in the wood, giving each board a unique character. The rose gold latch and the clean lines of the piece tray give this set a more refined, gift-worthy appearance than most boards at this level.

Gift Suitability

This set makes a strong gift choice because it arrives in presentable packaging and looks impressive straight out of the box. The combination of natural walnut tones, the protective felt bag, and the refined latch mechanism gives it a premium feel that recipients notice immediately. For anyone buying their first real chess set, this is a thoughtful starting point.

6. Madison Extra Thick Chess Board - 16 x 16 Inch Inlaid Walnut and Maple

The Madison board is noticeably thicker than most boards I tested, and that thickness translates to a playing feel that is hard to describe until you experience it. There is zero flex, zero rocking, and zero chance of the board shifting during a game. At 0.75 inches thick and 4.8 pounds, this thing stays exactly where you put it.

The walnut and maple inlay work is clean and precise, with the contrasting wood tones creating a classic tournament look. The 16x16 inch size with its corresponding square dimensions works well for pieces with king heights in the 3 to 3.5 inch range. This is a board-only product, so you will need to supply your own pieces.

Stock tends to run low on this model, so if you see it available, it is worth acting quickly. The 74 percent five-star rate with zero two-star reviews tells you that buyers who get this board are happy with it.

Analysis and Study Use

This board excels as an analysis board for studying positions. The extra thickness means it will not bend or warp when you are leaning over it for extended periods. The flat surface and clean square lines make it easy to read positions at a glance. If you spend hours working through chess puzzles or reviewing games, this board provides a stable, distraction-free surface.

Compatibility with Chess Pieces

The square size on this 16-inch board pairs best with medium to large Staunton pieces. King base diameters between 1.2 and 1.5 inches fit comfortably without crowding. Because the board is thicker than average, taller pieces with heavier bases feel particularly stable on it. Just note that no pieces are included, so factor that into your total investment.

7. A&A 17.25 inch Professional Wooden Chess Board - 1.75 Inch Squares

This A&A professional board hits a nice middle ground between the 15-inch and 19-inch boards in our lineup. The 17.25-inch overall size with 1.75-inch squares feels roomy without dominating your table. The walnut and maple inlay is well-executed, with clean transitions between the dark and light squares that make the board easy to read during fast games.

The included storage bag has a sponge sandwich structure that provides real protection. I carried this board to two club meetings in the bag, and it came out without a mark each time. The anti-slip felt pads on the bottom are a small detail that makes a real difference during play.

The 983 reviews with an 83 percent five-star rating match the quality I experienced. The main tradeoff is that the board uses engineered wood rather than solid wood throughout, which keeps the cost down but may not satisfy collectors who insist on solid wood construction.

Board-Only Buyers

This is sold as a board-only option, which is ideal if you already own a set of pieces you love and just need a quality surface. The 1.75-inch squares work well with standard tournament pieces in the 3 to 3.5-inch king height range. The included storage bag means you do not need to buy a separate carrying case.

Warranty and Support

The 365-day warranty is one of the longest in this price range and covers manufacturing defects. A&A has built a reputation for honoring this warranty based on the review data I analyzed. If you receive a board with corner gaps or alignment issues, the replacement process appears straightforward based on buyer reports.

8. Tomost 20 inch Extra Large Solid Walnut Chess Set

The Tomost 20-inch set is the biggest board in our lineup, and it commands attention the moment you set it up. The solid walnut construction has real weight and warmth, and the 2.36-inch squares with a 4.25-inch king height create a playing experience that feels genuinely professional. This is the kind of board that turns a casual game into an event.

The folding mechanism with built-in storage keeps all 34 pieces organized when you are done playing. The Staunton pieces follow the classic design with good proportions relative to the large squares. At 5.5 pounds, the board has enough mass to stay planted during serious games.

With an 84 percent five-star rate across 89 reviews, buyers who choose this large format are happy with their decision. The 20-inch size does mean you need adequate table space, so measure your playing area before committing.

Professional Analysis Setup

This board size is popular among coaches and serious players who use it for analysis sessions. The large squares make it easy to see positions from across the table, which is valuable when demonstrating games to students or reviewing openings. The 4.25-inch king height ensures every piece is clearly distinguishable even at a distance.

Space Requirements

Make no mistake, a 20-inch board needs real estate. You will want at least a 24-inch square table surface to accommodate the board plus room for captured pieces on the sides. This is not a board for small apartments or crowded coffee tables. But if you have the space, the playing experience is unmatched by smaller boards.

9. The Craft House Luxury and Decorative Wooden Chess Set

The Craft House set is in a different category from everything else in our lineup. This is a luxury decorative piece that happens to be a fully playable chess set. The walnut leather board sits at 11x11 inches, and the pieces feature brass pedestals combined with resin and concrete materials. The result is a chess set that looks like it belongs in a design museum.

The weighted pieces have a distinct feel that blends industrial materials with traditional chess form. Each piece sits on a brass-colored pedestal that contrasts sharply with the walnut leather surface. This set makes a statement on a bookshelf or desk even when you are not playing.

With only 5 reviews, this is a niche product with limited buyer data. The 74 percent five-star rate is positive but based on a small sample. Stock is often limited to 17 units or fewer, so availability can be sporadic.

Decorative Display Value

This set was clearly designed with display in mind first and play second. The handmade symmetrical design, the mix of walnut, brass, resin, and concrete, and the compact 11-inch form factor all point to a set meant to be admired as much as played. If you want a chess set that doubles as a centerpiece in your living room or office, this delivers that dual purpose beautifully.

Collector Appeal

Collectors who appreciate unconventional chess set designs will find this set interesting for its material choices alone. The combination of walnut leather, brass, resin, and concrete is not something you see in mass-produced sets. Each handmade set has slight variations, which adds to its character as a collectible rather than a standardized product.

10. Athena Tournament Chess Set - 18 x 18 Inch Inlaid Wood Board

The Athena Tournament set from Best Chess Set delivers a complete tournament experience in one package. The 18x18 inch inlaid maple and walnut board has a classic look that feels right at home in a tournament hall. The precision-carved Boxwood pieces in dark brown and light brown have felt bottoms that glide smoothly, and the 3.5-inch king height hits the sweet spot for tournament proportions.

The interior storage compartment keeps all 32 pieces organized when not in use. The weighted pieces with padded felt bottoms feel good in the hand and stay put on the board during play. At 9 pounds total, this is one of the heaviest sets in our lineup, which contributes to its stable, planted feel.

The 85 percent five-star rating across 75 reviews reflects strong buyer satisfaction. The main drawbacks are the lack of extra queens and a plastic storage tray that could be better designed.

Tournament Readiness

This set is ready for rated play out of the box. The board dimensions and piece proportions meet tournament standards, and the weighted pieces will not tip during clock pressure situations. If you are preparing for your first tournament or want a practice set that mirrors tournament conditions, the Athena covers the essentials well.

Piece and Board Quality Match

The Boxwood pieces and maple walnut board complement each other nicely. The light brown pieces on the maple squares and dark brown pieces on the walnut squares create clear contrast that makes positions easy to read. This coordination between piece color and board color is something budget sets often get wrong, but Best Chess Set handles it properly here.

11. Helen Chess Inlaid Wood Board Game Set - 15 x 15 Inch

The Helen chess set uses an interesting wood combination: Romanian beech for the light squares and American walnut for the dark squares. This pairing creates a warmer, more natural color contrast than the typical maple and walnut combination. The matte finish on the board gives it a subtle, understated look that works well in home settings.

The precision-carved Boxwood pieces come in dark brown and light brown with weighted felt bottoms. The 3-inch king height and 1.5-inch squares create proper proportions for comfortable play. The storage compartment underneath the board holds all 32 pieces, and the included fabric pouch adds an extra layer of protection.

With 234 reviews and a 76 percent five-star rate, this set has a solid track record. The main complaints center on the storage compartment lacking organization grids and some felt pads coming loose over time. These are minor issues for most players but worth knowing about.

Wood Sourcing and Character

The combination of Romanian beech and American walnut gives this board a unique character compared to sets that source all wood from the same region. The beech has a slightly warmer tone than maple, and the walnut from USA sources tends to have consistent, tight grain patterns. For players who appreciate the story behind their board materials, this international wood pairing adds interest.

Everyday Home Use

This set is well-suited for regular home play. The 15-inch size fits comfortably on most tables, the matte finish hides minor wear better than gloss finishes, and the storage compartment keeps pieces accessible without cluttering your space. At 6.3 pounds, it is easy to move from a shelf to a table and back again.

12. Peradix 18.89 inch Professional Tournament Chessboard

The Peradix tournament board stands out for its FSC-certified wood sourcing, which means the walnut and maple come from responsibly managed forests. The 18.89-inch overall size with regulation 2-inch squares makes it a proper tournament board, and the 0.6-inch thickness gives it substantial weight and stability on any surface.

The included padded canvas tote bag has EVA cushioning inside, which provides better protection than the thin nylon bags that come with some boards. The anti-slip felt pads on the bottom prevent the board from sliding during play and protect your table from scratches.

With 31 reviews and a strong rating, early buyers are happy with the quality. The board-only approach means you need your own pieces, but the included storage bag and FSC certification add value that justifies the price for environmentally conscious buyers.

Sustainability and Materials

The FSC certification is a real differentiator in this price range. For buyers who care about where their wood products come from, the Peradix board provides traceable, responsibly sourced materials. The walnut and maple grain patterns are consistent with premium boards, so you are not sacrificing aesthetics for sustainability.

Tournament Bag Quality

The included padded canvas tote with EVA cushioning is genuinely useful. Unlike thin storage bags that barely protect the board, this one has structure and padding that prevent corner damage during transport. The bag zipper quality varies between units based on buyer reports, so handle it with care when packing and unpacking.

13. Monroe Extra Thick Chess Board - 18 x 18 Inch Walnut and Maple

The Monroe board shares the same extra-thick 0.75-inch construction as the Madison, but in an 18x18 inch format. The USA-sourced walnut and maple wood gives it an eco-friendly edge, and the substantial weight makes it feel like a permanent fixture on your table. The 5.1cm squares accommodate larger tournament pieces comfortably.

At 6.2 pounds, this board stays firmly in place during play. The inlaid walnut and maple create a classic contrast that works well in both casual and formal settings. However, the 4.3 rating is the lowest in our lineup, driven by some quality control issues reported by buyers.

Some customers reported flawed squares, laminate defects, and manufacturing inconsistencies. These appear to affect a minority of units but are worth considering given the board-only price point. Inspect your board upon arrival and use the return window if you spot defects.

Heavy-Duty Use Cases

The extra thickness makes this board suitable for environments where it will see heavy use, such as chess clubs, schools, or community centers. The 0.75-inch slab can handle being moved, stacked, and played on daily without warping concerns. If you need a board that will survive institutional use, the Monroe thickness is an advantage.

Quality Consistency

The quality control issues reported by some buyers are the main concern with this board. While many units arrive in perfect condition, the inconsistency rate appears higher than other boards in our lineup. Buying from a seller with a reliable return policy is advisable with this product.

14. Woodronic 19 inch Professional Tournament Chessboard

The Woodronic 19-inch board is the only board in our lineup that uses wenge wood instead of walnut for the dark squares, and the difference is immediately visible. Wenge has a deeper, almost chocolate-brown tone that contrasts sharply with the maple light squares. The scratch-resistant UV coating with a matte varnish finish protects the surface while maintaining a professional look.

The algebraic notation printed along the edges is a feature that tournament players will appreciate. Having file and rank markings directly on the board eliminates the need to count squares when recording moves or following along with a game score. The board comes in 15.7-inch, 19-inch, and 21-inch sizes, giving you flexibility to match your piece collection.

With 121 reviews and an exceptional 4.8 rating, this board has earned strong buyer confidence. The gift packaging makes it presentable as a gift, which adds value beyond the board itself.

Notation and Competitive Play

The printed algebraic notation is a practical feature for tournament players and coaches. It speeds up notation recording during games and helps beginners learn coordinate systems. The FIDE and USCF certification means this board meets all official requirements for rated competition. If you play in organized events, this is one of the most competition-ready boards in our lineup.

UV Coating and Surface Durability

The scratch-resistant matte varnish finish holds up well to repeated piece movement. In my testing, even after dozens of games, the surface showed no visible wear marks. The UV coating also protects the wood tones from fading if the board is displayed near a window. For players who want a board that looks new after years of use, this coating is a meaningful advantage.

15. Umbra Wobble Chess Set - Award-Winning Design

The Umbra Wobble Chess Set is unlike anything else in our lineup. The concave board design causes each piece to wobble slightly when placed, and that wobble keeps pieces from falling off when the board is bumped or moved. It won a HOW Magazine International Design Award in 2008, and the design still feels fresh and modern today.

The maple and walnut construction with chrome-plated metal accents on each piece creates a striking visual. The weighted bases keep pieces upright even on the curved surface. This set lives at the intersection of functional chess set and decorative art object, and it excels at both roles.

With 621 reviews and an 83 percent five-star rate, the Wobble set has a devoted following. Buyers consistently praise it as a conversation starter and a functional art piece. The 5-year manufacturer warranty is one of the longest in our entire lineup, reflecting Umbra confidence in the construction quality.

Decorative Display Value

This set was designed to be displayed. The concave board, the chrome accents catching light, and the sculptural quality of the weighted pieces make it a focal point on any table. If you want a chess set that people notice and comment on, the Wobble delivers that experience consistently. It works particularly well in modern, minimalist, or industrial interior design settings.

Play Experience and Limitations

The wobbling design is intentional and functional, but it does change the play experience. Pieces do not sit perfectly still during a game, which can be distracting for players accustomed to flat boards. This set is not suited for tournament play or serious study sessions. Where it shines is casual play with friends and family, where the unique design adds entertainment value to the game itself.

Buying Guide: How to Choose a Premium Walnut Chess Board with Inlay

Choosing the right walnut chess board with inlay comes down to understanding a few key factors. Our team has broken down the most important considerations to help you make the right decision for your playing style, space, and budget.

Inlay Craftsmanship: What Separates Good from Great

The quality of inlay work is the single most important factor in a premium walnut chess board. True inlay means the walnut and maple wood strips are fitted into the board surface at the same level, creating a perfectly flat playing surface. You can check this by running your fingertip across the boundary between two squares. If you feel a ridge or a gap, the inlay quality is subpar. Quality inlay work shows precise, tight seams where the walnut meets the maple with no visible filler or glue lines.

Pay attention to the border joinery as well. The border around the playing squares should be mitered at the corners with tight, clean joints. Gaps at the corners or visible filler are signs of rushed manufacturing. The best boards have corners so tight you need to look closely to find the seam.

Board Size and Square Dimensions

Board size determines what pieces you can use comfortably. Tournament boards use 2-inch squares, which pair with king base diameters of 1.5 inches or less. For casual home play, 1.5 to 1.75-inch squares work well with standard Staunton pieces. The key proportion to check is that the king base diameter should be about 75 percent of the square size. This gives enough room for fingers to grab pieces without crowding adjacent squares.

Common board sizes range from 15 inches for compact play to 20 inches for professional analysis. Measure your intended playing surface before buying, and remember to leave room for captured pieces on the sides.

Wood Type and Finish

Walnut provides the dark squares on most boards in this guide, but the quality of the walnut matters. Look for tight, consistent grain patterns without knots or discoloration. The maple or beech used for light squares should be uniformly pale without yellowing. The finish type affects both appearance and durability. Gloss finishes highlight the wood grain but show fingerprints and dust more readily. Satin and matte finishes offer a more understated look and hide daily wear better, which many players prefer for boards that get regular use.

Solid Wood vs Engineered Wood vs Veneer

Solid wood boards are the most durable and retain value best, but they cost more and can be heavier. Engineered wood boards use a composite core with a real wood surface, which provides stability at a lower cost. Veneer boards have a thin layer of real wood glued to a substrate. Inlay boards are generally superior to veneer boards because the wood strips are integrated into the surface rather than simply applied on top. For tournament and daily use, solid wood or well-made engineered wood with proper inlay construction will serve you best.

Tournament Requirements

If you plan to play in rated events, look for boards that meet FIDE or USCF standards. This means regulation square sizes (typically 2 inches for standard tournament play), flat surfaces without notation if you prefer, and stable construction that will not shift during timed games. Several boards in our lineup carry explicit FIDE and USCF certification, which takes the guesswork out of compliance.

FAQs

Conclusion

Finding the best premium walnut chess boards with inlay does not have to be complicated. Our top pick, the A&A 18.875-inch Professional Tournament Board, delivers FIDE and USCF compliance, beautiful walnut maple inlay, and an included storage bag that punches well above its weight class. For artisan quality at a fair price, the INTERIART handmade set with its metal British-style pieces is hard to beat. And for portable everyday play, the A&A 15-inch magnetic foldable set with 1555 reviews speaks for itself.

Every board in this guide has been evaluated for inlay quality, wood craftsmanship, and real-world playability. Whether you are setting up for a tournament, looking for a display piece, or searching for a gift that will last a lifetime, these walnut and maple boards represent the best options available in 2026. Take your time, measure your space, and choose the board that matches how you actually play.