The Allowance Game (1979) Board Game

The Allowance Game was released in 1979 by Lakeshore Learning Materials and Milton Bradley. It is a children’s board game that aims to teach kids about money management and basic math skills in a fun and engaging way.

Game Components of The Allowance Game

Game board

Four different color pawns

Money chips (1-dollar bills, 5-dollar bills, and quarters)

Dice

Color tokens for the lemonade stand

Bank chips

How To Setup The Allowance Game

To set up the game, each player chooses a pawn and two matching color chips. Each player starts with $3. The game board is placed in the middle, and the money and other components are distributed according to the instructions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Be the first player to earn $20.

Gameplay:
– Players roll the dice to determine the number of spaces to move.
– Landing on different spaces can result in earning money (e.g., mowing the lawn for $2.25) or spending money (e.g., buying a toy for $1.80).
– Players collect $3 in allowance each time they return to the “Home” space.
– The game includes special spaces like the bank, where players can deposit money and earn interest, and the lemonade stand, which can be purchased to earn money from other players.
– If a player runs out of money, they return to the “Home” space and start over with $3.

Player Experience

The Allowance Game offers a simple yet engaging experience, particularly for children. It mimics real-life scenarios where kids earn money by doing chores and make financial decisions. The game’s colorful board and realistic money components add to its charm. While it lacks complex strategy, it is an effective tool for teaching financial literacy and responsible spending.

Pros

Educational Value: Teaches children about earning, saving, and spending money.

Colorful and Attractive Components: The game board and money chips are visually appealing.

Easy to Understand: Simple rules make it accessible to young players.

Interactive Elements: Special spaces like the lemonade stand add an entrepreneurial twist.

Cons

Limited Strategy: The game is primarily based on luck rather than strategic decision-making.

Repetitive Gameplay: The roll-and-move mechanic can become repetitive.

Personal Thoughts on The Allowance Game

The Allowance Game is ideal for families with young children, serving as a fun and educational tool to introduce basic financial concepts. It is not a heavy game and can be enjoyed by adults looking for a light, nostalgic experience. While it may not offer deep strategy, its charm and educational value make it a worthwhile addition to any family game collection.

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