How to Make Your Own Board Game

Do you like board games? Have you ever wanted to create your own? It's easier than you might think, and it can be fun for the whole family.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• An old board game with pieces or dice
• Computer sticker paper
• Markers or a computer with a color printer

1. Decide what you want. Are you looking to make something along the lines of "Monopoly", or "Risk", or "Trivial Pursuit" or do you have an idea that's completely off the map? Draw the layout on scrap paper.

2. Once you've figured out what genre you're working in, create the rules. The goal is to make game play fun. Fun and easy don't have to go hand in hand, but unless you're planning on playing with hardcore board gamers you want to make the rules accessible. The fewer the rules, the quicker people can learn and play.

3. Take an old board game (either one you never play or go and buy one from a thrift store or yard sale) and deface it. Cover it with computer sticker paper and draw your layout on it. Or draw the layout on the computer and print it to fit the board. You might have to cannibalize more than one game to get all the pieces you want.

4. Have a preview night. Get together with some buddies and play your game. Figure out what does and doesn't work. Make alterations accordingly (even if you have to scrap the game and start over). Have another game night or two to make sure the game is playable and fun.