Chess is a game that’s been around for a long while. Despite its age, it is still one of my favorites. There is so much that you have to concentrate on, planning out your moves while trying to predict how your opponent will react. With all of that mental work going on, there isn’t always time for chit-chat. With this fancy Talking Chess Set, you don’t have to worry about conversation.

Artist Barbara Kruger designed this chess set using three integrated computers and 96 microprocessors. Why would she do such a thing? To make it talk, of course! In fact, every time you move a piece, a sound byte is played at random, bringing about the illusion of conversation. It’s an interesting concept (though I do prefer my games be played without too much chatter) and I like the minimalist design to the pieces. However, what I find ridiculous is the $30,000 price. For that kind of money, I’d expect it to actually hold a real conversation with me, not some pre-recorded jabber.