Check Your Attic: These 12 Vintage Board Games Are Worth Hundreds of Dollars
Like well-worn cassette tapes and VHS tapes, vintage board games may have gathered dust in the corners of your attic or bookshelf. But did you know some of those old favorites could be worth a small fortune today? From a first edition of “The Game of Life” to “Fireball Island,” retro board games have become highly sought-after collectibles. Here are some of the most valuable vintage board games, along with their recent sale prices.
1. ‘Star Wars: Escape From Death Star’
“Star Wars” fans will remember this one. Released at the height of “Star Wars” mania, this game allows players to relive the excitement of the original movie as they attempt to escape the Death Star and make their way to the Rebel base. Sealed versions of this game can fetch as much as $200 to $300 on eBay, with used versions still selling for over $100 depending on their condition.
2. ‘The Game of Life’ (First Edition)
Milton Bradley’s “The Game of Life” (the modern version) debuted in 1960 and quickly became a staple in many households. The game mimics a person’s journey through life with diverging paths along the way (babies! promotions!). First editions in excellent condition, especially with all their original pieces and instructions, can sell for up to $500. Even used editions can bring in $100 to $200, depending on their condition.
3. ‘Monopoly’ (White Box and Black Box Editions)
The earliest versions of “Monopoly,” known as the White Box and Black Box editions, are incredibly rare. These pre-date the more common versions of the game and were produced by Parker Brothers in the mid-1930s. Authentic White Box or Black Box editions can sell for as much as $6,000 if in good condition, while incomplete sets can bring in several hundred dollars.
4. ‘Dark Tower’
“Dark Tower” was a groundbreaking electronic board game in the early 1980s. Players embark on a quest to defeat the dark tower while interacting with a central electronic tower that controls the game. Complete and functional sets of “Dark Tower” have become incredibly valuable, with some selling for over $300.
5. ‘Mystery Date’
Cue the squeals! This classic ’60s game was a favorite among teenage girls. Players would prepare for a date with the goal of opening the door to reveal their “mystery date” — a handsome or less-desirable suitor. Vintage editions of “Mystery Date” in good condition can sell for $100 to $200; if the box is still intact with all original parts, prices can soar even higher.
6. ‘King Oil’
“King Oil” was a strategy game in which players drilled for oil and built pipelines. The game’s innovative mechanics and 3D board made it unique for its time (though it’s anti-eco-friendly messaging is left to be desired). Complete sets of “King Oil” have been known to sell for $100 to $400, with higher prices for those in excellent condition or still sealed.
7. ‘Masterpiece’
In this art auction game, players buy, sell, and auction off famous paintings, many of which could be forgeries. The game combines strategy and bluffing, making it a hit with collectors. Well-preserved editions of “Masterpiece” have been known to fetch between $100 and $200.
8. ‘Fireball Island’
Known for its unique 3D board and interactive play, “Fireball Island” has become a collector’s favorite. Players race around an island, avoiding rolling “fireballs” and trying to steal a jewel. Complete versions of this board game in good condition can sell for $300 to $600; vintage versions remain highly sought after.
9. ‘Seance’
This eerie game allowed players to communicate with the spirit of a recently departed rich uncle to try and inherit his fortune. It’s become a cult classic among board game collectors, with rare and complete sets of “Seance” selling for $150 to $300, depending on their condition.
10. ‘Clue’ (First Edition)
The original version of the popular murder-mystery game “Clue” is highly sought after, especially early editions with the original art and game pieces. First edition “Clue” games from the 1950s can sell for over $300 — bonus points if they’re in good condition. Even well-used sets can fetch around $100.
11. ‘HeroQuest’
“HeroQuest” was a fantasy-themed dungeon crawler game, combining the best aspects of board games and role-playing games. If yours is in good condition and you don’t mind parting ways, consider selling it: You can find complete sets of “HeroQuest” for $400 to $700.
12. ‘Barbie Queen of the Prom’
In this classic game, players compete to become Barbie’s prom queen, completing a series of tasks like finding the perfect dress and the ideal date. “Barbie Queen of the Prom” games in excellent condition can fetch between $150 and $300 on eBay, especially if all the pieces are intact.