Stocks & Bonds (1964) Board Game

Stocks & Bonds is a classic board game that was first released in in 1964. It was designed by the Avalon Hill Game Co and has been a staple in the world of economic board games ever since. The game allows players to simulate the ups and downs of the stock market as they buy and sell stocks and bonds in an attempt to amass wealth.

Game Components of Stocks & Bonds

Game Board: Either a folding green playing board with black crayons (Version A) or a folding chalk board with chalk and sponge eraser (Versions B1 and B2).

Market Price Calculator: A unique calculator to determine market fluctuations.

Securities Review Cards: 6 cards providing information on the securities.

Record Sheets: For tracking transactions.

Situation Cards: 36 cards that influence market conditions.

Bear and Bull Cards: 18 of each to indicate market trends.

Share Certificates: 210 certificates for various companies.

Dice: 2 standard 6-sided dice for determining price fluctuations.

How To Setup Stocks & Bonds

To set up the game, players first prepare the game board and distribute the necessary components. Each player starts with a set amount of money. The market price calculator and situation cards are placed within reach. Players then draw securities review cards to understand the different stocks and bonds available. The record sheets are used to track all transactions throughout the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Buying and Selling: Players buy and sell shares and bonds each round.

Market Trends: Situation cards determine if the market is “Bull” (increasing) or “Bear” (decreasing).

Dice Rolling: Players roll dice to determine price fluctuations based on the market trend.

Dividends: Players collect earnings from the previous round.

Objective

The goal is to become the wealthiest stockholder by the end of the 10 rounds.

Player Experience

Playing **Stocks & Bonds** transports players to Wall Street, where they engage in strategic buying and selling of fictitious stocks. The game offers a simplistic yet engaging simulation of stock market dynamics, making it accessible to both experienced and novice players. The unique market price calculator adds a fun element, indicating whether players have had a “Happy Monday” or a “Black Friday”.

Pros

Educational: Teaches basic stock market concepts and investment strategies.

Interactive: Engaging gameplay with random market fluctuations and dividends.

Social: Supports up to 8 players, making it a good game for groups.

Cons

Simplistic: Criticized for its low realism and unoriginality compared to other stock market games.

Ambiguous Rules: Some players find the rules occasionally ambiguous.

Personal Thoughts on Stocks & Bonds

**Stocks & Bonds** is ideal for those interested in a light-hearted introduction to stock market mechanics. It’s a great game for families or casual gamers looking to understand basic investment concepts without the complexity of real-world financial markets. While it may not offer the depth and realism sought by experienced investors, it provides an enjoyable and educational experience for its target audience.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.