Board games have long been a source of entertainment and social interaction for families and friends. However, not all games have stood the test of time without controversy. Here are 11 classic board games that have faced bans or alterations due to their controversial content.

This post may contain affiliate links meaning I get commissions for purchases made in this post. Read my disclosure policy here.

Ghettopoly

Ghettopoly, a board game, sparked controversy for its racially charged themes and derogatory stereotypes targeting African American communities. The game’s depiction of poverty, crime, and drug culture in urban settings was deemed offensive and harmful. Critics argued that Ghettopoly perpetuated negative stereotypes and trivialized the struggles faced by marginalized communities.

Colonoscopia: A Game of Guts

Colonoscopia, a board game centered around medical procedures, faced bans due to its graphic and potentially distressing content. The game raised ethical concerns about desensitizing players to serious health issues by simulating invasive medical procedures like colonoscopies.

Sexy Murder Party

Sexy Murder Party, a game featuring explicit content and themes of violence and sexuality, was banned for its inappropriate and offensive nature. By glamorizing scenarios of murder within a sexualized context, the game crossed ethical boundaries and raised concerns about promoting harmful behaviors. Critics argued that such content could desensitize players to the seriousness of violence and objectify victims.

Martha Stewart’s Omnigame

Martha Stewart’s Omnigame faced bans due to copyright infringement and unauthorized use of intellectual property. By incorporating Martha Stewart’s likeness and brand without proper authorization, the game violated intellectual property laws and infringed on the rights of the celebrity personality. Legal action was taken against the game’s creators for misappropriating Martha Stewart’s image and exploiting her brand.

Dschihad

Dschihad, a card game (German for jihad) depicting terrorism and religious extremism, encountered bans due to its inflammatory content and insensitive portrayal of sensitive geopolitical issues. The game’s depiction of terrorism and religious conflict was deemed offensive and potentially harmful, as it trivialized acts of violence and promoted stereotypes.

Fukushima Monopoly

Fukushima Monopoly faced bans due to its insensitive treatment of the Fukushima nuclear disaster and its aftermath. By incorporating themes related to the nuclear accident and its impact on local communities, the game trivialized a severe humanitarian and environmental crisis.

Car Wars

Car Wars, a game centered around vehicular combat and destruction, was banned due to concerns that it promoted reckless driving and violence. The game raised safety concerns and ethical objections by glorifying vehicular mayhem and encouraging aggressive behavior on the road. Authorities intervened to prohibit the sale and distribution of Car Wars to protect public safety.

Slaver

Slaver, a game based on the transatlantic slave trade, encountered bans for its insensitive portrayal of a historical atrocity. By making the exploitation and trafficking of enslaved individuals a game, critics argued that Slaver glorified slavery and minimized its impact on African communities, promoting a distorted view of history.

There’s no Place Like Home

The game was banned due to copyright infringement and unauthorized use of intellectual property from the film The Wizard of Oz. By incorporating elements of the movie without proper authorization, it violated copyright laws and infringed on the rights of the original creators.

Black Lagoon

Black Lagoon faced bans due to its promotion of racial stereotypes and offensive caricatures of African American culture. The game’s depiction of violence and criminal activity within Black communities perpetuated harmful stereotypes and undermined efforts toward social justice and equality.

Charlie Chan’s Hawaii

Charlie Chan’s Hawaii encountered bans due to its portrayal of racial stereotypes and cultural insensitivity. By depicting Asian characters in a stereotypical and demeaning manner, the game perpetuated harmful stereotypes and undermined efforts toward promoting diversity and inclusion.

16 Famous Comedians Whose Jokes Are Forbidden in Today’s World

Related:In the ever-evolving comedy landscape, societal norms and sensitivities play a significant role in shaping acceptable humor. Over the years, certain comedians who were once celebrated for their wit and sharp humor have found themselves in hot water for jokes now deemed offensive or inappropriate. Here are 16 famous comedians whose jokes are forbidden in today’s world.