Are games generally forbidden, and if not, why was chess specifically forbidden to the exclusion of other games that do not involve forbidden things?

The fundamental principle regarding games is permissibility, unless there is a reason for their prohibition. Chess, if played for compensation, is unanimously considered unlawful. If played without compensation, the majority of scholars deem it unlawful, especially if it leads to neglecting an obligation or committing a forbidden act. This is due to the harms it can cause, such as instigating enmity and hatred, and diverting from the remembrance of Allah and prayer. It has been authentically narrated that Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, passed by a group of people playing chess and said, "What are these statues to which you are devoted?"

As for what aids in fulfilling Allah's commands, such as {And prepare against them whatever you are able of power}, it is permissible with or without compensation. However, what leads to what Allah has forbidden, like backgammon (nard) and chess, is prohibited with or without compensation. And what contains benefit without an overriding harm, such as racing and wrestling, is permissible without compensation.