Flipping board games has become an increasingly popular way to make money among collectors, hobbyists, and resellers. With the growing demand for classic, limited-edition, and out-of-print board games, flipping offers significant profit potential. Whether you’re sourcing rare finds from thrift stores or limited Kickstarter releases, knowing which games have high resale value is key to success. In this article by https://resellcalendar.com/, we’ll explore some of the best board game flipping examples and how you can maximize profits.

1. Gloomhaven (First Printing)

Why It’s a Great Flip

Gloomhaven, designed by Isaac Childres, became a massive hit upon its release, and its first printing quickly went out of stock. The demand for this highly-rated, dungeon-crawling board game skyrocketed, and resellers saw prices double or even triple on secondary markets like eBay and BoardGameGeek.

Original Price vs. Flipping Price

• Original Retail Price: $120
• Resale Price (First Printing): $250–$400

Where to Find It

• Kickstarter backers who may be looking to sell
• Second-hand listings on Facebook Marketplace
• Local board game stores with leftover stock

2. HeroQuest (Original & 2021 Reprint)

Why It’s a Great Flip

The original 1989 HeroQuest, produced by Milton Bradley and Games Workshop, is a holy grail for collectors. Even incomplete sets sell for hundreds of dollars. When Hasbro announced a 2021 reprint, the limited nature of its release made it an instant collectible.

Original Price vs. Flipping Price

• 1989 Version (Used Condition): $200–$700
• 2021 Reprint (Crowdfunded Edition): $100 retail, resold for $250–$400

Where to Find It

• Estate sales and flea markets
• Kickstarter backer resales
• Board game trade groups on Facebook

3. Twilight Imperium 3rd Edition

Why It’s a Great Flip

Fantasy Flight Games released Twilight Imperium 3rd Edition in 2005, and it became a staple for hardcore strategy gamers. When the 4th edition launched, 3rd edition copies soared in resale value due to the demand for its unique mechanics and components.

Original Price vs. Flipping Price

• Retail Price: $100
• Resale Price (After 4th Edition Release): $250–$350

Where to Find It

• Hobbyist game stores with leftover stock
• BoardGameGeek trade listings
• Craigslist and eBay auctions

4. Kingdom Death: Monster

Why It’s a Great Flip

This Kickstarter-exclusive game is known for its high-quality miniatures and deep gameplay. The base game alone originally retailed for around $400, but due to limited availability, it has become one of the most profitable board games to flip.

Original Price vs. Flipping Price

• Retail Price (Kickstarter Only): $400
• Resale Price: $800–$1,500 (depending on expansions and condition)

Where to Find It

• Online auctions and private sales
• Kickstarter resales from backers who changed their minds
• Local gaming groups

5. Star Wars: The Queen’s Gambit

Why It’s a Great Flip

Released by Avalon Hill in 2000, this Star Wars-themed game is one of the most valuable discontinued board games. It features an elaborate 3D board and miniatures, making it highly sought after by collectors.

Original Price vs. Flipping Price

• Retail Price: $50–$60
• Resale Price: $400–$700

Where to Find It

• Estate sales and thrift stores
• Private collectors
• Online classified ads

6. Fireball Island (1986 & Restoration Games 2018 Edition)

Why It’s a Great Flip

The original Fireball Island was a classic 1980s board game that became a collector’s dream. Restoration Games re-released it in 2018 through Kickstarter, and the exclusive editions have done well on the resale market.

Original Price vs. Flipping Price

• 1986 Version (Used Condition): $150–$400
• 2018 Kickstarter Version: $75–$100 retail, resold for $150–$250

Where to Find It

• Thrift stores and flea markets
• Second-hand toy stores
• Kickstarter resales

7. Agricola (Limited Anniversary Editions)

Why It’s a Great Flip

Agricola is one of the most acclaimed Euro-style board games. While the standard edition is still available, special anniversary editions and first printings have significant resale value.

Original Price vs. Flipping Price

• Retail Price: $50–$60
• Limited Editions (Out of Print): $150–$300

Where to Find It

• Collector groups on Facebook
• Local game conventions
• Specialty board game stores

8. Space Hulk (1989, 1996, and 2009 Editions)

Why It’s a Great Flip

Games Workshop’s Space Hulk has had multiple limited-edition releases, each gaining value over time due to its highly detailed miniatures and strategic gameplay.

Original Price vs. Flipping Price

• 1989 Edition: $400–$800
• 1996 Edition: $250–$500
• 2009 Edition: $150–$400

Where to Find It

• Online resellers
• Board game conventions
• Local comic book and game shops

9. Catan 3D Collector’s Edition

Why It’s a Great Flip

Settlers of Catan is a best-selling modern classic. The 3D Collector’s Edition, featuring hand-painted resin tiles, was released in limited quantities and now fetches high prices.

Original Price vs. Flipping Price

• Retail Price: $300
• Resale Price: $500–$800

Where to Find It

• Board game auctions
• Private collector marketplaces
• eBay listings

10. Brass: Lancashire & Birmingham Deluxe Editions

Why It’s a Great Flip

Brass is a well-regarded economic strategy game, and its deluxe edition printings have become highly sought after, especially by competitive players.

Original Price vs. Flipping Price

• Retail Price: $70–$100
• Deluxe Edition (Limited Print): $200–$350

Where to Find It

• Kickstarter resales
• Second-hand board game groups
• Online marketplaces

Final Thoughts: Maximizing Profits When Flipping Board Games

If you’re looking to make money flipping board games, consider these key strategies:

• Look for Kickstarter exclusives: Many of the most profitable flips come from crowdfunded projects with limited releases.
• Keep games in excellent condition: Opened but well-maintained games hold value, but sealed copies command premium prices.
• Know your audience: Hardcore gamers and collectors often pay top dollar for rare finds.
• Act fast on out-of-print games: Once a game goes out of print, its resale value can skyrocket within months.

By staying informed about trends in the board game market and sourcing wisely, you can turn a hobby into a lucrative flipping business!