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This is probably the most sort after (and the most expensive) of all the games based on the View-Master 3D system. It is expensive due to the fact that it contains no less than FOUR Matchbox die-cast model cars. I think I am right in saying that these cars were only available with the game and not sold separately. Examples of the Grand Prix game are often snapped up by model car collectors (and for crazy money) the cars kept and the “kids toy” viewers and reels simply thrown away. John Saddy www.sympatico.ca/john.saddy.3d/, who runs the famous VIEW-MASTER postal auction, tells me he sold a mint example of this game in 1999 or early 2000 and he thinks it went for around $600 (that’s over £400 in real money!) |
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The game is played on a Grand Prix circuit board,
which slides out when you fold down the end flap of the
box. The board then folds out to give a MASSIVE 4’ x
3’ playing area. Each player chooses a car and they
line up on the grid, ready for the start. The dice are
thrown and the cars move off around the track, one space
for each number. If a car lands on a space with a racing car shown on it they have to pick up the viewer, place one of the four reels inside and advance the reel by the number thrown. The resulting 3D scene will either give them a view showing either an Advantage or a Handicap. The number of the scene is noted and looked up on the chart printed inside the box lid. For example, scene 27 shows the pit crew with a new lap record displayed on the pit boards (actually you have just beaten Grahame Hill, Jackie Stewart and Dennis Hume – pretty good driving, eh?) A new lap record is obviously and advantage so, according to the chart you move forward 6 spaces. If, however, you end up with view number 6, you have perforated your crankcase (painful!) and must return to your pit and miss one turn. A neat twist in the game comes in when you try to overtake another car. To do this you must use one of the spaces either side of your opponent and that must be counted as one of your moves. If the track narrows, or there is no empty space between cars to pass, you must stop behind them and waste any unused moves. Each time a lap is completed you move your pit lane flag on one space and the first player to complete five laps is the winner! If you are interested in the actual cars, each is marked on the bottom Matchbox Superfast. Made in England, 1973 Lesney Prods & Co Ltd. No 24 Team Matchbox. |
