Trivial Pursuit Master Game Genus Edition Value Guide

The 1981 Genus Edition represents the first mass-market release of Trivial Pursuit, a game conceived by Chris Haney and Scott Abbott that sparked a global 1980s trivia craze. Its historical significance lies in its role as the foundation for the entire trivia genre, making it a cornerstone for vintage board game enthusiasts.

What affects the value of Trivial Pursuit Master Game Genus Edition?

• Completeness of the set, including all 1,000 question cards and the original plastic scoring wedges.
• Condition of the outer box, specifically looking for split corners, fading, or heavy shelf wear.
• The presence of original promotional inserts or the instruction manual which are often lost over time.
• Overall cleanliness of the game board and cards, as smoke odors or staining significantly reduce the $15-$25 value.

How to Identify Trivial Pursuit Master Game Genus Edition?

• Check for the 1981 copyright date and the 'Genus Edition' branding on the box lid.
• Verify the presence of the original circular board and the six multi-colored plastic player tokens shaped like pie wedges.
• Confirm the inclusion of the two card storage boxes containing the original 6,000 questions and answers.
• Look for the 'Horn Abbot Ltd.' or 'Selchow & Righter' manufacturer marks on the box and instructions.

History of Trivial Pursuit Master Game Genus Edition

Conceived in 1979 by Chris Haney and Scott Abbott, Trivial Pursuit became a global phenomenon in the early 1980s. This Genus Edition was the first version released to the mass market, eventually selling millions of copies and sparking a massive trivia craze that defined the decade's social gatherings.