New game

Has anyone here played any chess. I was thinking about giving it a try and wondered if it was any good. I wonder if you could answer my queries below: -
Are chess sets expensive and where might I purchase one. How do I know when I've found a good one and what to look for.
Is it hard to play.
Are there any ongoing costs?
DO i need to buy any specialist or protective clothing such as a box maybe?
Do I have to play on 64 squares or are there other sizes?
Am I allowed to play members of my family?

Originally posted by Sicilian Sausage
Has anyone here played any chess. I was thinking about giving it a try and wondered if it was any good. I wonder if you could answer my queries below: -
Are chess sets expensive and where might I purchase one. How do I know when I've found a good one and what to look for.
Is it hard to play.
Are there any ongoing costs?
DO i need to buy any spec ...[text shortened]... have to play on 64 squares or are there other sizes?
Am I allowed to play members of my family?

You can get sets for as little or as much as you want.