In a world increasingly dominated by screens and digital entertainment, a quiet revolution is taking place on tabletops across the globe. Board games, those beloved relics of rainy days and family gatherings, are experiencing a renaissance. And with this resurgence comes a new breed of enthusiast: the board game collector. From vintage classics to modern marvels, these cardboard connoisseurs are amassing libraries that would make any game night a truly epic affair. But for those just starting out, the world of board game collecting can seem as complex as a round of Twilight Imperium. Fear not, dear reader! Let’s roll the dice and embark on a journey into this captivating hobby. Only the best games Memocasino.
The Siren Call of Cardboard and Plastic
What drives someone to start collecting board games? For many, it begins with a single, transformative play experience. “I was at a friend’s house, and we played Catan,” recalls Tom Vasel, host of the popular board game review show The Dice Tower. “It was like nothing I’d ever played before. Suddenly, I realized there was this whole world of games beyond what you’d find at Walmart.”
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This eye-opening moment is common among collectors. The realization that board games have evolved far beyond Monopoly and Scrabble often ignites a passion for exploration and acquisition. “It’s like discovering that there’s more to music than what’s on the radio,” Vasel explains. “Once you get a taste, you want to experience it all.”
Starting Your Collection: Quality Over Quantity
For the novice collector, the sheer variety of games available can be overwhelming. It’s tempting to buy every game that catches your eye, but seasoned collectors advise a more measured approach.
“Focus on quality over quantity,” suggests Quintin Smith, co-founder of the board game review site Shut Up & Sit Down. “It’s better to have a small collection of games you love than a huge library of mediocre titles gathering dust.”
So how do you identify quality games? Research is key. Read reviews, watch playthrough videos, and if possible, try before you buy. Many game stores offer demo copies or host game nights where you can test drive new titles.
Defining Your Collection’s Focus
As your collection grows, you may want to develop a focus. Some collectors specialize in particular genres, such as strategy games or party games. Others collect games from specific designers or publishers. Still others focus on vintage games or foreign editions.
“Having a focus helps guide your collecting and can make the hobby more rewarding,” says Tiffany Caires, a collector who specializes in abstract strategy games. “It gives you a sense of purpose and expertise in a particular area.”
That said, don’t feel pressured to limit yourself too strictly, especially when starting out. Allow yourself to explore different types of games to discover what truly resonates with you.
The Thrill of the Hunt
Part of the joy of collecting is the thrill of the hunt. While many games can be easily purchased online or at your local game store, tracking down rare or out-of-print titles can be an exciting challenge.
“I once spent months tracking down a copy of Glory to Rome, a brilliant game that’s been out of print for years,” recalls Smith. “When I finally found one at a reasonable price, it felt like winning the lottery.”
Flea markets, thrift stores, and estate sales can be goldmines for vintage games. Online marketplaces and auction sites are great for hard-to-find titles. And don’t underestimate the power of networking with other collectors – they can be invaluable sources for leads on rare games.
Caring for Your Collection
Once you start amassing games, proper storage and care become crucial. Board games can be vulnerable to damage from sunlight, humidity, and temperature fluctuations.
“Store your games vertically, like books on a shelf,” advises Vasel. “This prevents warping of the boards and boxes. And keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.”
For particularly valuable or rare games, consider investing in protective sleeves for cards and custom storage solutions. And always handle your games with clean, dry hands to prevent wear and tear.
The Social Aspect: More Than Just Acquisition
While the act of collecting can be rewarding in itself, the true joy of board games lies in playing them. “A board game collection isn’t meant to be a museum,” says Caires. “These games are designed to be played and shared.”
Many collectors host regular game nights, inviting friends and fellow enthusiasts to explore their libraries. Others participate in local board game meetups or conventions. These social interactions not only allow you to enjoy your collection but also to discover new games and connect with like-minded individuals.
The Investment Angle: Proceed with Caution
Some approach board game collecting as an investment, hoping to profit from rare or out-of-print games. While it’s true that some games appreciate in value, experts caution against collecting solely for financial gain.
“Collect because you love games, not because you’re hoping to strike it rich,” warns Smith. “The market is unpredictable, and for every game that skyrockets in value, there are dozens that don’t.”
That said, being aware of a game’s potential future value can inform your collecting decisions. Limited editions, Kickstarter exclusives, and games from smaller publishers are more likely to become rare and valuable in the future.
Navigating the Cult of the New
The board game industry is constantly releasing new titles, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the latest and greatest games. While staying current can be fun, it’s important not to neglect the classics or overlook hidden gems from the past.
“Don’t feel pressured to always have the newest games,” advises Vasel. “Many great games stand the test of time. A well-curated collection balances new releases with proven classics.”
The Digital Dimension
In our increasingly digital world, board game collecting has taken on new dimensions. Many popular board games now have digital versions, allowing collectors to enjoy their favorite titles on tablets or smartphones.
Additionally, apps and websites like BoardGameGeek have become invaluable resources for collectors. These platforms offer a wealth of information about games, including reviews, forums for buying and selling, and tools for cataloging your collection.
“I use BoardGameGeek to track my collection and wishlist,” says Caires. “It’s a great way to stay organized and connect with other collectors.”
The Future of Your Collection
As your collection grows, you may find yourself facing storage challenges or shifting interests. It’s okay to refine your collection over time, selling or trading games that no longer resonate with you.
“Your collection should bring you joy,” says Smith. “If a game isn’t sparking that joy anymore, it’s okay to let it go to make room for new experiences.”
Some collectors even plan for the future of their collections after they’re gone. “I’ve seen people include their board game collections in their wills,” Vasel notes. “It’s a way to ensure that these beloved games continue to be enjoyed and appreciated.”
Rolling the Dice on a New Adventure
As we’ve explored, board game collecting is more than just accumulating cardboard boxes. It’s a journey of discovery, a social connector, and a way to engage with an art form that combines strategy, creativity, and interpersonal dynamics.
Whether you’re drawn to the gorgeous artwork of modern games, the nostalgia of vintage titles, or the brain-burning challenge of complex strategy games, there’s a place for you in the world of board game collecting. So roll the dice, draw a card, and take your first steps into this exciting hobby. Who knows? The next game you add to your collection might just be the start of a lifelong passion.
Remember, in the grand game of collecting, the real victory isn’t in having the biggest or most valuable collection – it’s in the joy, knowledge, and connections you gain along the way. Now, who’s ready to play?
