1. Lost in Space (1966)
Based on the hit sci-fi show from the ’60s, this board game is now a nostalgic treasure for fans. Lost in Space had simple yet fun gameplay, and its vibrant artwork and theme captured the space craze of the time. Today, vintage copies in good condition regularly sell for $300 to $800. If yours still has all the pieces and a box free of major wear, collectors are likely to pay a premium. Nostalgia for classic TV shows never seems to fade, making this game a valuable find.
2. Dark Tower (1981)
If you grew up in the ’80s, you may remember Dark Tower, the electronic board game that had every kid begging their parents for it. With its mysterious tower that lit up, spun, and made dramatic sound effects, this game was like magic back in the day. Today, finding a complete and working Dark Tower can feel like a treasure hunt itself. Collectors are willing to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,000, depending on its condition. If you have one stashed in your attic, now might be the time to cash in!
3. Fireball Island (1986)
This game was all about the adventure: climbing a 3D volcano, dodging fireball marbles, and grabbing that precious gem. Fireball Island was a childhood favorite for many kids in the late ’80s, and now nostalgia has collectors chasing it down. A complete set with all its parts can sell for $400 or more. Even better if the box is in great shape, as vintage games with original packaging always fetch a premium. If you still have this fiery gem, it’s worth checking what collectors will offer.
4. HeroQuest (1989)
HeroQuest was like Dungeons & Dragons but more accessible for kids who loved fantasy adventures. With miniatures, detailed board pieces, and an epic quest storyline, this game became an instant classic. Fast-forward to today, and HeroQuest has a cult following among board game enthusiasts. A complete, well-kept set can easily sell for $300 to $600. If you happen to own expansions like Kellar’s Keep or Return of the Witch Lord, you’re looking at even higher values!
5. Fortune (1935)
Before Monopoly took over, there was Fortune – a Parker Brothers game that was its close cousin. While Monopoly went on to global fame, Fortune quietly disappeared, which now makes it a rare collector’s piece. A vintage copy of this game from the 1930s can sell for $1,000 or more, especially if it’s in excellent condition. The unique history and scarcity of Fortune make it a prized possession for board game collectors and historians alike.
6. Kingmaker (1974)
Kingmaker is a strategy game set during England’s Wars of the Roses, and its historical theme captivated players in the ’70s. Known for its depth and replayability, this game became a cult favorite among history buffs and board game fans alike. Original versions in good condition can fetch $200 to $400 today, depending on completeness. Collectors especially prize well-kept versions of this strategy classic, so it’s worth checking your shelves if you were a fan.
7. Star Wars: The Queen’s Gambit (2000)
When The Phantom Menace came out, Star Wars: The Queen’s Gambit took movie lovers straight to the battlefields of Naboo. This complex strategy game featured over 150 pieces and a multi-level board, making it a standout among Star Wars games. Today, its rarity has turned it into a goldmine. Complete sets regularly sell for $400 to $700, sometimes even more. If you bought this game when the prequels came out, you might be sitting on a valuable piece of Star Wars history.
8. The Landlord’s Game (1903)
Here’s a real piece of board game history. The Landlord’s Game was created in 1903 as the precursor to Monopoly. It was originally designed to teach lessons about economics and the dangers of land monopolies. Because of its age and historical significance, original copies of The Landlord’s Game can sell for thousands of dollars – some have fetched upwards of $10,000. If you happen to have one of these treasures, you’re holding a true collector’s dream.
9. Thunder Road (1986)
Mad Max fans will remember Thunder Road, a post-apocalyptic racing and battle game filled with vehicular chaos. It wasn’t just fun to play; it looked cool too, with mini cars and a modular track. Complete sets in good condition now go for $200 to $500, especially since nostalgia for the ’80s is stronger than ever. If you played this as a kid, you might want to see if it’s still tucked away in storage.
10. The Dark Shadows Game (1968)
Based on the cult-favorite Gothic soap opera Dark Shadows, this board game became a must-have for fans in the late ’60s. Its spooky vibe, eerie artwork, and connection to the supernatural made it stand out. Today, collectors who love classic TV memorabilia pay anywhere from $300 to $600 for well-preserved copies. If you’ve got this one sitting around, it’s worth checking its condition – spooky sells!
11. Bigfoot (1977)
The ’70s were a golden age for pop-culture legends, and Bigfoot the board game capitalized on the craze. Players raced to track the elusive creature, and the game became a hit among kids who loved mysteries and adventures. Finding a complete copy today can be tricky, but when they pop up, they often sell for $200 to $400. Nostalgia for quirky ’70s games makes Bigfoot a fun and valuable find.
12. Disneyland Game (1955)
The Disneyland Game was released the same year the iconic theme park opened, making it a special piece of Disney history. The colorful board took players on a journey through the park’s attractions, delighting kids and families alike. A first-edition copy in excellent condition can sell for $500 to $1,000 or more. Anything Disney is gold to collectors, and this game is no exception.
13. Trafalgar (1973)
For strategy game lovers, Trafalgar was a naval warfare game set during the Napoleonic era. Its detailed gameplay and historical accuracy made it a favorite among wargamers in the ’70s. Today, complete sets are highly sought after and often sell for $300 to $500. If you enjoyed war simulations back in the day, this one might be worth revisiting—or reselling!
14. The Game of Dracula (1963)
This vampire-themed board game captured the spooky spirit of the ’60s with its eerie artwork and Gothic gameplay. The Game of Dracula is now a rare collectible, and complete sets in good condition can sell for $400 to $800. Horror memorabilia fans and vintage game collectors alike covet this spooky classic, so don’t let it gather dust in your attic.
15. Mystery Date (1965)
Ah, the nostalgia! Mystery Date was the quintessential sleepover game for girls in the ’60s and ’70s. Players would try to land the “dream date” while avoiding the dreaded “dud.” A vintage copy in great condition can go for $200 to $400, with even higher prices for first editions. The charming artwork and retro appeal have made this a prized piece for collectors and anyone who loves vintage board games.