How to Fix Common Board Game Component Issues

Quick Answer

When a board game component breaks, first assess the damage: if it's a simple break, glue or tape might work; if it's a lost piece, check the publisher's replacement program or buy extra packs. For worn cards, consider sleeves. If the component is beyond repair, it's time to replace it.

Board games are an investment in fun, but components can take a beating. From bent cards to missing dice, these issues can interrupt your game night. Fortunately, many common problems have simple fixes that don't require a trip to the store.

This guide walks you through diagnosing the most frequent component issues and offers practical solutions, so you can get back to playing quickly.

Broken or Bent Cards

Cards are often the first to show wear. Bent corners, creases, or splits can happen from shuffling or accidental spills. For minor bends, place the card under a heavy book overnight to flatten it. For tears, carefully align the pieces and apply a small amount of archival tape on the back.

If the card is beyond repair, you have options: some publishers sell replacement cards, or you can use card sleeves to protect the damaged card and mark it as a proxy. Sleeves also prevent future damage, so consider sleeving your entire deck.

• Use card sleeves to protect frequently used cards.
• Store cards in a deck box to avoid bending.

Lost or Missing Dice

Dice are small and easy to lose. If you've lost a die from a game, first check if the publisher offers replacement dice. Many do, and some even sell extra packs. For example, Thunderworks Games offers extra dice packs for Roll Player expansions.

If official replacements aren't available, you can often substitute with generic dice, but be aware that custom dice with unique faces may not have a direct substitute. In that case, consider using a dice-rolling app that simulates the specific die.

• Keep spare dice in a labeled baggie.
• Check the game's publisher website for replacement parts.

Scratched or Worn Game Boards

Game boards can get scratched from sliding pieces or accidental spills. For light scratches, a soft cloth and a bit of furniture polish can help buff them out. For deeper scratches, you might need to use a clear coat or contact paper to seal the surface.

If the board is warped from moisture, place it under a heavy weight with a dry cloth on top to flatten it. Avoid using water directly on the board. If the damage affects gameplay, consider using a playmat or a custom overlay.

• Use a playmat to protect the board during play.
• Store boards flat and away from humidity.

Broken Plastic or Miniatures

Miniatures and plastic pieces can snap, especially at thin points. For a clean break, use plastic cement or super glue, applying a small amount and holding the pieces together for a minute. For missing pieces, you can sculpt a replacement with green stuff or use a 3D-printed proxy.

If the piece is integral to gameplay and cannot be replaced, consider using a token or a stand-in. Some games have extra pieces in the box, so check your inventory before ordering replacements.

• Use plastic cement for a strong bond.
• Check the spare parts bag that often comes with the game.

When to Stop and Replace

Not every component is worth fixing. If the repair would take more time than the game's value, or if the piece is essential and cannot be accurately replaced, it's time to buy a new copy. Also, if the damage is due to a manufacturing defect, contact the publisher for a replacement.

For older games, you might find replacement parts on secondary markets or through the publisher's extra pieces program. Sometimes, buying an expansion that includes new components is a cost-effective way to refresh your game.

• Contact the publisher for missing parts before buying a new copy.
• Consider buying extra pieces for games you play often.

Diagnose Before You Fix

• Symptom: Identify the exact problem: a broken piece, missing component, or worn card. Be specific about what's wrong.
• Likely cause: Consider how it happened: normal wear, accident, or manufacturing defect. This helps decide if it's worth fixing or replacing.
• Corrective action: Apply the appropriate fix: glue, replacement, or protective measure. Follow the steps in the sections above.
• Stop or choose another option: If the repair is too complex, the piece is essential, or the cost of replacement is low, stop and get a replacement part or new copy. Know when to cut your losses.

Replacement Parts and Extras

• Roll Player - Combat Dice (Expansions): Lost some dice from your Roll Player expansions, or just want more? This is an extra pack of Combat Dice (used in both expansions). Includes: 25 Combat Dice. If you've lost dice from Roll Player or its expansions, this affordable pack restores your game without buying a whole new set.
• cartographers-extra-map-sheets-a1-a1-affril-dc5035105968db964348f56d-897228">Cartographers: Extra Map Sheets A1/A1 (Affril): Run out of Map Sheets for Cartographers Map Pack 2 (Affril)? Grab some extras! Pad of 75 sheets. Double-sided with A1 and A2 sides. For a drawing game like Cartographers, running out of map sheets stops the fun. Extra sheets keep the game going.

Board game components will eventually show wear, but with a little know-how, you can fix many issues and extend the life of your games. For lost pieces, consider extra packs from publishers like Thunderworks Games to keep your collection complete. Happy gaming!