5 ’70s Board Games That Took Forever to Play

The 1970s brought plenty of board games to family tables, but not all were designed for quick entertainment. Many of these games were fun in theory but tested patience with their overly complicated rules or endless gameplay. Here are five board games from the ’70s that dragged on far too long.

1. Risk

Risk promised players the thrill of world domination, but the endless gameplay often left players frustrated. With a mix of dice rolls and strategic moves, games could stretch for hours, sometimes even days.

While the game’s premise was exciting, the slow pace and constant negotiations between players often caused tempers to flare. Winning felt less like a triumph and more like a battle of endurance.

2. Monopoly

Monopoly was already notorious for its long runtime, but the ’70s editions added new rules and house rules that made games last even longer. Accumulating properties and bankrupting opponents could take hours.

The game’s appeal often wore thin as players faced endless arguments over deals and rules. Many games ended with someone flipping the board in frustration rather than finishing.

3. The Game of Life

The Game of Life aimed to simulate a lifetime of decisions, but its detailed mechanics made it a time-consuming ordeal. Players had to navigate careers, family choices, and financial ups and downs, all while moving along a winding board.

While fun at first, the constant spinning of the wheel and endless stops along the way made the game feel like it lasted an eternity. By the time players reached retirement, most were ready to quit.

4. Dungeons & Dragons

Dungeons & Dragons became a cultural phenomenon in the ’70s, but its complex rulebooks and endless scenarios often turned sessions into all-day events. Campaigns required a Dungeon Master, a group of players, and a lot of patience.

While beloved by dedicated fans, the game’s intricate storytelling and strategic battles made it less appealing for casual players looking for a quick activity. Some campaigns went on for weeks or months, making it a true test of commitment.

5. Careers

Careers combined elements of strategy and luck, with players setting personal victory goals. While innovative, the game’s endless loops around the board and numerous choices dragged out gameplay.

Deciding between fame, fortune, and happiness required a lot of planning, which often slowed things down. By the time someone achieved their goals, most players were just glad the game was over.