The Sword and the Chess of Death (2007)
A Chinese fantasy epic where an ancient game of chess, a legendary sword, and a doomed love triangle collide across five centuries.
The Sword and the Chess of Death - Series Information
- Original Title: 魔剑生死棋
- First Air Year: 2007
- Last Air Year: 2008
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (45 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 50
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin, English
- Networks: Guangzhou Broadcasting Network, CTS
- Alternative Titles: 마검생사기 (KR), The Sword and the Chess of Death (CN)
- Production Companies: 峨眉电影集团有限公司, China International Television Corporation 中国国际电视总公司 (CITVC)
- Production Countries: China
The Sword and the Chess of Death - Plot
An unfinished game of Chess of Death from five hundred years ago was said to hold the clue to a buried treasure and Lin Shuang Sword was the key to the game. Anyone who could finish this game would obtain enough wealth to take over the world. Five hundred years later, Ren Qian Xin was ordered to find Lin Shuang Sword. Ren was madly in love with Liu Yi Yi. But the woman's heart was on his honorary brother, Yan Cang Feng. The despaired Ren challenged Yan to the Chess of Death.
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The Sword and the Chess of Death - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Tony Sun
- Shao Bing
- Liu Tao
- Leo Wu
- Ray Lui
- Ma Yu-Feng
- Dai Jiaoqian
- Jenson Tien
- 张粤
- Kuo Tin-Tin
The Sword and the Chess of Death - FAQs
What is The Sword and the Chess of Death about?
The series centers on an ancient, unfinished Chess of Death said to reveal the location of a vast buried treasure, with the mythical Lin Shuang Sword as the key to unlocking it. Five hundred years later, a love triangle between Ren Qian Xin, Liu Yi Yi, and Yan Cang Feng ignites a fateful challenge that sets the story in motion.
Is The Sword and the Chess of Death based on a true story?
No, The Sword and the Chess of Death is a work of fantasy fiction. It draws on classic Chinese wuxia and historical fantasy traditions — ancient treasures, legendary swords, and chess as a metaphor for fate — but the characters and storyline are entirely fictional creations.
Who are the main actors in The Sword and the Chess of Death?
The series stars Tony Sun as Ren Qian Xin, Shao Bing as Yan Cang Feng, and Liu Tao as Liu Yi Yi, forming the central love triangle. The supporting cast includes Leo Wu, Ray Lui, Ma Yu-Feng, Dai Jiaoqian, Jenson Tien, 张粤, and Kuo Tin-Tin.
Where can you stream The Sword and the Chess of Death?
Streaming availability for The Sword and the Chess of Death varies by region. For the most up-to-date viewing options — including streaming, rental, and purchase platforms available in your country — check JustWatch, which aggregates current availability across all major services.
How many episodes does The Sword and the Chess of Death have?
The Sword and the Chess of Death ran for a single season comprising 50 episodes, each averaging around 45 minutes in length. The series aired across 2007 and 2008 on Guangzhou Broadcasting Network and CTS, giving the story ample room to develop its intricate fantasy plot.
What genre is The Sword and the Chess of Death?
The series blends fantasy and drama, rooted in the Chinese wuxia tradition. It combines martial arts adventure, supernatural elements, and a sweeping romantic storyline — making it a compelling watch for fans of historical Chinese fantasy epics with emotional depth and high-stakes conflict.
Where was The Sword and the Chess of Death produced?
The series was produced in China, with production handled by 峨眉电影集团有限公司 (Emei Film Group) and China International Television Corporation (CITVC). It aired on Guangzhou Broadcasting Network and CTS, reflecting a collaboration between major Chinese film and television institutions.
What shows are similar to The Sword and the Chess of Death?
If you enjoy The Sword and the Chess of Death, The Journey of Flower (2015) is a strong recommendation — another Chinese fantasy drama with romance and martial arts at its heart. For broader fantasy television, The Nevers (2021) and Fantasy Island (2021) offer imaginative, genre-blending storytelling worth exploring.
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