It’s forbidden, I tell you! Forbidden! Or so says the Grand Ayatollah Sistani.
Question : Why is chess forbidden?
Answer : It is not permissible, because it is a means for Lahv (debauchery) and gambling. Many traditions have been reported from the Holy Prophet and the Imams (a.s.) that prohibit playing chess. Moreover, when we do not know the reason behind the forbiddenness of an act, we are bound to obey in absolute obedience. There is a reason for it, but we do not know it and when we do not know it, it does not mean that we should not abide by it.
Question : Is playing chess allowed?
Answer : It is absolutely unlawful.
Question : Chess is Halal or Haram?
Answer : Chess is absolutely forbidden.
I don’t even want to ask about D&D, or City of Heroes …
(via J-Walk)