Operation is a game of physical skill that tests players’ hand-eye coordination
and fine motor skills. The game’s prototype was invented in 1964 by John
Spinello, a University of Illinois industrial design student at the time, who sold
his rights to the game to Milton Bradley for a sum of $500. Initially produced 
by Milton Bradley in 1965, Operation is currently made by Hasbro, with an
estimated franchise worth of $40 million.

John Spinello, inventor of the popular board game Operation.

In 2014, John Spinello, 78, and friends raised over $25,000 for much needed
oral surgery for himself. At last report, he is presently still working.

The original prototype for the board game Operation.