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The Hidden Gems of Thrift Shopping: Vintage Board Games

Hey thrifters, it's been a while! Today, I'm excited to dive into a topic that's close to my heart and often overlooked in the thrifting world - vintage board games. You might be thinking, "Board games? Really?" But trust me, there's a whole world of nostalgia, fun, and yes, even profit to be found in those old game boxes.


What Makes Vintage Board Games Valuable?

Just like those Disney Black Diamond VHS tapes we talked about before, vintage board games can sometimes fetch a pretty penny. But what makes a board game valuable? It's a mix of factors like rarity, condition, and demand. Games that were produced in limited quantities, are in excellent condition, or are highly sought after by collectors tend to be worth more. And let's not forget about games with working electronic elements - those are always a hit!


A Personal Thrifting Win: Crossfire

Speaking of games with electronic elements, I had a great find with a 90s game called Crossfire. This fast-paced, action-packed game was a hit back in the day, and finding one in good condition was a real score. It did really well for me, proving once again that vintage board games can be a profitable niche in the thrifting world.


Some Vintage Board Games to Look For

Here are a few more vintage board games that are known to be valuable:



"Dark Tower" (1981): This electronic fantasy board game is a hit among collectors. If you find one in working condition, it could be worth hundreds of dollars.

Find it on Ebay


(Want to play but want to save some money? Try the new version!









"HeroQuest" (1989): This adventure game is highly sought after for its detailed miniatures and immersive gameplay.








"Fireball Island" (1986): This action-packed game features a 3D board and a fireball-throwing volcano. It's a favorite among collectors and can fetch a good price.





But It's Not Just About the Money

While it's always nice to find a valuable game, thrifting isn't just about making a profit. It's also about the thrill of the hunt, the joy of finding something special, and the fun of playing a vintage board game with your friends or family. So next time you're at a thrift shop, why not check out the board game section? You never know what treasures you might find.

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