Top 10 Most Expensive Board Game Sets Ever Created
Board games can be surprisingly pricey, but they can be worth every penny if they give you hours of fun and pieces that you want to collect. Discover the epitome of luxury gaming with the most expensive board game, a pinnacle of opulence and sophistication.
Author:Elisa MuellerReviewer:Emily SanchezNov 13, 20236.6K Shares189.3K Views
In the realm of board games, an extraordinary niche exists, where leisure meets luxury. Among these stands the pinnacle of opulence: the most expensive board gameavailable. This exceptional creation transcends the traditional notion of gaming, elevating it to a level of opulence and exclusivity appreciated by a select group of enthusiasts and collectors.
What Are Board Games?
Board games are tabletop games that involve counters or pieces moved or placed on a pre-marked surface or "board," according to specific rules. They often involve strategic or chance-based gameplay and usually have a defined goal or set of objectives for players to achieve. These games can range from simple ones like Tic-Tac-Toe or Snakes and Ladders to more complex and strategic games like Chess, Settlers of Catan, or Monopoly.
They are designed for two or more players, but some board games can be played solo. The gameplay usually involves competition or cooperation among the participants, each trying to achieve victory or complete a set of challenges. These games can be based on strategy, luck, negotiation, or a combination of these elements.
Board games come in various genres, such as abstract strategy, war games, economic games, word games, and more. They have been a popular form of entertainment for centuries, serving as a means of social interaction, mental stimulation, and leisure. With the advent of modern gaming, board games continue to evolve, incorporating innovative mechanics, themes, and designs, attracting a diverse range of players of all ages and interests.
Jewel Royale Chess ($9.8 Million)
The Jewel Royale Chess Set is a striking testament to the convergence of opulence and the classic game of chess, recognized as the most expensive board game to date. Crafted in 2005 by the distinguished British jewelry company Boodles, this chess set stands as an iconic representation of luxury and fine craftsmanship.
Composed primarily of solid gold and platinum, the Jewel Royale Chess Set boasts an extravagant display of nearly 1000 meticulously embedded rubies, diamonds, and sapphires. The chess pieces, mostly designed in a helical form, exemplify an extraordinary level of artistry, with the exception of the remarkable horse sculptures serving as the knights. These exquisitely detailed pieces elevate the game to a level of sheer grandeur and sophistication.
The gameplay of chess on the Jewel Royale Chess Set remains faithful to the traditional rules of the game. Each player commands an army of intricately crafted pieces that include the king, queen, bishops, knights (represented by the lifelike horse sculptures), rooks, and pawns. The objective remains unchanged: to checkmate the opponent’s king while strategizing moves to protect one's own monarch.
The grandeur of this set does not overshadow the inherent gameplay of chess, which involves intense strategy, foresight, and tactical thinking. Despite the lavishness of its design and materials, the gameplay itself remains the classical and intellectually engaging contest known to chess enthusiasts worldwide.
The Jewel Royale Chess Set represents an exquisite fusion of art and traditional gameplay, offering an experience that extends beyond its significant financial value. It's not only a showcase of opulence but also a tribute to the timeless game of chess, enticing players and collectors alike with its rare combination of luxury and strategic engagement.
Charles Hollander Backgammon ($5 Million)
The Charles Hollander Backgammon Set stands as a captivating pinnacle within the collection, showcasing the opulence and grandeur associated with the game. A testament to fine craftsmanship and luxury, this extraordinary set is the final jewel in the crown of the Charles Hollander Collection, representing an astounding fusion of art and gameplay.
Crafted with astonishing attention to detail, the Backgammon set boasts an impressive array of 61,082 black, white, and yellow diamonds weighing a total of 2071 carats. The checkers, themselves adorned with 2960 white diamonds, are set against a backdrop of over six kilograms of yellow gold and 150 grams of silver. The sheer magnificence and opulence of the materials used in this creation are a spectacle to behold, making it a prized possession.
The gameplay of Backgammon, a classic strategy game, involves two players moving their respective set of fifteen checkers across a board comprised of twenty-four narrow triangles called "points." The objective of the game is to move all of your checkers into your own home board and then bear them off. Players roll a pair of dice to determine the movement of their checkers. Strategy and tactical play are fundamental in this game, making it both challenging and engaging.
The Charles Hollander Backgammon Set offers an experience that extends beyond its opulent materials. While the intrinsic value of the set is undoubtedly substantial, the gameplay itself remains true to the classic rules and strategy of Backgammon. Players engage in a contest of wits and strategy, making moves and counter-moves to outmaneuver their opponent on the exquisitely crafted board.
This extraordinary fusion of fine artistry and classic gameplay makes the Charles Hollander Backgammon Set an emblem of luxury and sophistication, appealing not only to aficionados of the game but also to collectors who value the rare combination of opulence and traditional gaming.
Gold Monopoly Set By Sidney Mobell ($2 Million)
Renowned American artist Sidney Mobell is revered for his unparalleled ability to metamorphose everyday objects into extraordinary, gem-encrusted pieces of art. Among his most iconic creations is the remarkable Gold Monopoly Set, an exquisite demonstration of opulence and luxury.
This exceptional Monopoly board is crafted from 23-carat gold and adorned with rubies and sapphires meticulously set into the houses and hotels, transforming the classic game into a display of sheer extravagance. Valued at an astonishing $2 million, it stands as the most expensive Monopoly set ever produced.
The Smithsonian Museum proudly houses this extraordinary creation alongside several other notable works by Sidney Mobell. It represents a fusion of traditional gameplay with the opulence and artistry that define Mobell's exceptional craftsmanship.
The gameplay of Monopoly remains faithful to the classic rules of the game. Players maneuver around the board, buying and trading properties, collecting rent, and strategically aiming to bankrupt their opponents. Each player aims to amass wealth and properties while avoiding bankruptcy, making astute financial decisions to emerge as the victor. The customization and luxurious elements of the Gold Monopoly Set enhance the traditional gaming experience, elevating it to a level of extraordinary opulence.
While the Gold Monopoly Set by Sidney Mobell stands as a symbol of unparalleled luxury, its gameplay retains the familiar and engaging dynamics of the traditional Monopoly game. Players immerse themselves in the strategic and financial challenges of real estate acquisition and management, engaging in a competitive quest for wealth and property dominance. The lavishness of the board amplifies the gaming experience, offering players a unique and opulent twist on the classic Monopoly game.
Charles Hollander Roulette ($1 Million)
The Charles Hollander Roulette Set stands as another jewel within the illustrious collection, representing a fusion of opulence and gaming grandeur. Crafted with remarkable attention to detail, this roulette set epitomizes luxury with its gold-encrusted design and an array of precious materials, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle.
This opulent set comprises a small roulette wheel, a dice cup, a set of chips, two dice, and a dice rake, all adorned with a dazzling display of 200 carats of colorful diamonds, three kilograms of fourteen-carat gold, and three kilograms of silver. The extravagance of the materials used in this creation makes it a prized possession, solidifying its status as a luxury item within the realm of gaming collectibles.
The gameplay of roulette, a classic casino game, involves players placing bets on a number, color, or group of numbers, trying to predict where the ball will land on the spinning wheel. The croupier, or dealer, spins the wheel and rolls the ball in the opposite direction. Bets are then settled based on where the ball eventually rests, determining the winners. Roulette is a game of chance, with players hoping to accurately predict the outcome of the spin.
The Charles Hollander Roulette Set offers an experience that extends beyond its opulent materials. While the intrinsic value of the set is undoubtedly substantial, the gameplay itself remains true to the classic rules and thrill of roulette. Players experience the anticipation and excitement of the spinning wheel, the unpredictability of chance, and the thrill of betting, all heightened by the extraordinary luxury of the set.
This extraordinary fusion of fine artistry and the thrill of chance makes the Charles Hollander Roulette Set an emblem of opulence and sophistication. It appeals not only to enthusiasts of the game but also to collectors who value the rare combination of luxury and traditional gaming, transforming a classic casino game into an extravagant display of wealth and grandeur.
Charles Hollander Collection Royal Diamond Chess Set ($1 Million)
The Charles Hollander Collection Royal Diamond Chess Set stands as the emblem of opulence and grandeur within a collection that redefines the very essence of luxury board games. Born from a collaboration between Charles Hollander, heir to a century-old family diamond business, and Bernard Marquin, this collection symbolizes a fusion of traditional board games with the extravagance of gold, silver, and diamonds.
The Royal Diamond Chess Set is a resplendent masterpiece, boasting a kilogram of gold and a dazzling array of 9,900 black and white diamonds meticulously encrusted on the chess pieces. This initial set, sold for a princely sum of $1 million, epitomizes the opulence and luxury synonymous with the Charles Hollander Collection.
The gameplay of chess remains the same as in traditional chess. Players command an army of intricately crafted pieces representing regal characters such as kings, queens, bishops, knights, rooks, and pawns. The objective is to outmaneuver the opponent's pieces, aiming to checkmate the opponent's king while safeguarding their own.
The Charles Hollander Royal Diamond Chess Set, despite its extravagant materials and immense value, adheres to the fundamental rules and strategic nuances of the classic game of chess. Players engage in a battle of wits, employing strategic moves and foresight to outwit their opponent.
This fusion of traditional gaming with unparalleled luxury makes the Charles Hollander Collection Royal Diamond Chess Set an icon of opulence and sophistication. It caters not only to chess enthusiasts but also to collectors who appreciate the rare blend of luxury and classic gameplay. The game becomes an experience that not only hones strategic thinking but also stands as a testament to the convergence of art, wealth, and traditional board gaming.
Art Of War Chess Set ($1 Million)
The Art of War Chess Set designed by Victor F. Scharstein is a masterpiece that seamlessly blends the ancient game of chess with opulence and artistry. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this set exudes luxury, featuring rhodium and gold chess pieces adorned with a brilliant array of diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. The board, made from ebony and resting upon gold feet encrusted with diamonds and rubies, adds an exquisite touch of extravagance to this exceptional set.
The gameplay of the Art of War Chess Set remains true to traditional chess rules. Players maneuver exquisitely crafted pieces, each embedded with colorful gemstones, including kings, queens, bishops, knights, rooks, and pawns. The ultimate goal is to strategically outmaneuver the opponent's pieces, leading to a checkmate while safeguarding their own king.
The price estimation for this luxurious chess set is roughly $50,000 to produce, but obtaining an official price tag is challenging without direct contact with the maker. Considering the rare and valuable materials used, it's highly plausible that the Art of War Chess Set surpasses the $1 million mark, reflecting the extraordinary craftsmanship and luxury embedded in its design.
This set is not merely a game but a captivating display of art, wealth, and traditional gameplay. The Art of War Chess Set offers an elevated chess experience, wherein players engage in a strategic battle while appreciating the remarkable artistry and opulence that each move embodies. It appeals not only to chess enthusiasts but also to collectors who value the exquisite fusion of luxury and the enduring fascination of the game.
Oldest Monopoly Board ($46,000)
The acquisition of the Oldest Monopoly Board purchased for $46,000, stands as a testament to the game's rich and contested history. Monopoly, a beloved classic, is often credited to American inventor Charles Darrow, but its origins date back to an earlier game called The Landlord Game by Elizabeth Magie.
The Strong Museum of Play in Rochester, New York secured the oldest known version of Darrow's Monopoly at an auction, highlighting its significance and historical value. This handmade rendition of the game, purchased for $147,000, represents a critical milestone in the evolution of Monopoly.
The gameplay of Monopoly involves players moving around the board, buying properties, and engaging in negotiations with the objective of amassing wealth and bankrupting opponents. Players roll dice to move their tokens around the board, purchasing properties and collecting rent from opponents who land on their spaces. The goal is to strategically manage finances, properties, and investments to become the wealthiest player.
The Oldest Monopoly Board not only represents a cherished piece of gaming history but also embodies the enduring popularity and evolution of the game. The gameplay has remained a classic over the years, continuing to engage players in a strategic and competitive pursuit of financial dominance. The acquisition of this board not only preserves the heritage of Monopoly but also offers a window into its evolution and enduring appeal for enthusiasts worldwide.
Smart Scrabble ($30,000)
The Smart Scrabble unveiled during the inaugural Prague Mind Sports Festival in 2012 presented an extraordinary blend of innovation and classic wordplay. Amidst a multitude of gaming tournaments including Bridge, Backgammon, League of Legends, and Poker, this Scrabble system stood out as an intriguing display of advanced technology integrated into a traditional game.
This unique Scrabble system featured a carbon fiber board equipped with LED lighting and an integrated Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) system. The cutting-edge technology facilitated the instantaneous transmission of each tile's placement to the internet. Estimated to cost just over $30,000, this high-tech adaptation of Scrabble redefined the gameplay experience, offering a fusion of classic word-building with modern innovation.
The gameplay of Scrabble remains true to the original rules. Players use lettered tiles to create words on the board, aiming to maximize scores by strategically placing high-value tiles on bonus squares. Each player draws tiles from a pool, constructing words horizontally or vertically to intersect with existing words on the board. Points are scored based on the letters used and their placement, with bonus points for longer or higher-scoring words.
The Smart Scrabble system not only retained the essence of the traditional game but also enhanced the playing experience. The integration of technology not only offered an efficient way to track moves but also added an innovative dimension to the game, appealing to both Scrabble enthusiasts and tech aficionados. It provided a seamless and exciting way to enjoy the timeless challenge of forming words while embracing the advancements of modern technology.
Swarovski Scrabble ($20,000)
In celebration of Scrabble's 60th anniversary, the esteemed Australian crystal company Swarovski unveiled a remarkable creation: the Swarovski Scrabble. This exclusive edition, featuring a classic board adorned with dazzling crystals, paid homage to the diamond anniversary tradition, symbolizing opulence and longevity in matrimonial milestones.
Crafted with precision and adorned with exquisite crystals, this special edition Scrabble board became a collector's item, attracting attention worldwide. The limited edition set was put up for auction from October 20th to October 30th, 2008, with a valuation of $20,000. Notably, all the proceeds from the auction were generously allocated to support St. Jude's Research Hospital, contributing to their noble cause.
The gameplay of Swarovski Scrabble retained the classic rules of the traditional game. Players drew tiles and sought to create words on the board using a combination of lettered tiles. Points were awarded based on the letters' values and the strategic placement of words on the board. The Swarovski Scrabble, adorned with crystals, offered a heightened sense of elegance and prestige without altering the core mechanics of the game.
This unique rendition of Scrabble, encrusted with Swarovski crystals, not only marked a significant milestone in the game's history but also contributed to a worthy cause. It attracted both game enthusiasts and philanthropists, appealing to those who appreciated the fusion of classic wordplay with the artistry and glamour of Swarovski craftsmanship. The Swarovski Scrabble set remains an enduring testament to the game's longevity, its elegance, and its charitable contribution to a noble endeavor.
Deluxe Outrage! ($13,000)
The Deluxe Outrage! board game stands as a remarkable exemplar, earning the prestigious Guinness World Records title for the "Most Expensive Board Game" as of February 1995. This title primarily refers to the exceptional retail price set for a board game, marking a pinnacle in luxury gaming. Outrage! is a captivating game that revolves around a heist—stealing the Crown Jewels from the Tower of London.
The deluxe edition of Outrage! boasts playing pieces crafted from solid 18-carat gold or Sterling silver, each meticulously inlaid with an array of rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds. The opulent materials and craftsmanship elevate the gaming experience, transforming it into a luxury collector's item. Despite its retail price tag of $13,000, this deluxe edition of Outrage! often commands a value no less than $20,000 due to its rarity and exquisite detailing.
The gameplay of Outrage! immerses players in the challenge of orchestrating a heist to steal the Crown Jewels. Each player navigates a series of strategic moves and daring decisions, simulating the exhilarating thrill of orchestrating a theft in the confines of a board game. The game typically involves strategic planning, resource management, and calculated risk-taking, all in pursuit of successfully stealing the coveted Crown Jewels.
The Deluxe Outrage! board game not only embodies sheer opulence but also offers a thrilling and strategic gameplay experience. Its high value is not just in its materials but in the immersive and daring challenge it presents to players. The game becomes a unique combination of luxury, strategic gaming, and the captivating thrill of a heist, appealing to both board game enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the rare and extraordinary in gaming.
Most Expensive Board Game - FAQs
How Do Board Games Benefit Us?
Board games offer numerous benefits including enhancing cognitive skills, promoting social interaction, reducing stress, and improving problem-solving abilities.
What Are The Different Types Of Board Games?
Board games encompass various types such as strategic, party, cooperative, educational, and role-playing games, each catering to different preferences and play styles.
What Are Some Popular Board Games For Families?
Games like Monopoly, Scrabble, Clue, Ticket to Ride, and Settlers of Catan are often enjoyed by families due to their engaging gameplay suitable for different age groups.
How Do Board Games Help In Child Development?
Board games aid in developing critical skills in children, fostering cognitive development, social interaction, decision-making, and improving concentration.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Playing Board Games?
Engaging in board games can lead to reduced stress, improved memory, enhanced cognitive abilities, and increased dopamine release, promoting overall well-being.
Conclusion
In the realm of board games, the most expensive board games redefine the concept of gaming, representing the epitome of opulence, exclusivity, and craftsmanship. These exceptional games are crafted using rare and precious materials, often featuring intricate designs that elevate them beyond traditional gameplay. They cater to a select group of enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate not just the entertainment aspect, but also the rarity and unique artistry of these sets. They stand as symbols of wealth, luxury, and exquisite design, embodying the highest levels of sophistication within the gaming world.
Jump to
What Are Board Games?
Jewel Royale Chess ($9.8 Million)
Charles Hollander Backgammon ($5 Million)
Gold Monopoly Set By Sidney Mobell ($2 Million)
Charles Hollander Roulette ($1 Million)
Charles Hollander Collection Royal Diamond Chess Set ($1 Million)
Art Of War Chess Set ($1 Million)
Oldest Monopoly Board ($46,000)
Smart Scrabble ($30,000)
Swarovski Scrabble ($20,000)
Deluxe Outrage! ($13,000)
Most Expensive Board Game - FAQs
Conclusion
Elisa Mueller
Author
Elisa Mueller, a Kansas City native, grew up surrounded by the wonders of books and movies, inspired by her parents' passion for education and film.
She earned bachelor's degrees in English and Journalism from the University of Kansas before moving to New York City, where she spent a decade at Entertainment Weekly, visiting film sets worldwide.
With over 8 years in the entertainment industry, Elisa is a seasoned journalist and media analyst, holding a degree in Journalism from NYU. Her insightful critiques have been featured in prestigious publications, cementing her reputation for accuracy and depth.
Outside of work, she enjoys attending film festivals, painting, writing fiction, and studying numerology.
Emily Sanchez
Reviewer
Emily Sanchez, a Fashion Journalist who graduated from New York University, brings over a decade of experience to her writing. Her articles delve into fashion trends, celebrity culture, and the fascinating world of numerology.
Emily's unique perspective and deep industry knowledge make her a trusted voice in fashion journalism.
Outside of her work, she enjoys photography, attending live music events, and practicing yoga for relaxation.
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