Well today I thought of a incredible idea for a board game, good enough for it to be pitched to a company. One company has exclusive rights to the type of the game, (i won't give anymore information) and i'm curious to how i'd go about contacting them about it. Their offices are somewhat close to me, so traveling there isn't too much of a problem. I'm almost positive they'd be at least somewhat interested, as cocky as that may sound. I thought of emailing them, but i'd be worried that some average guy who handles the emails will take my credit for it and go off and do exactly what i'm trying to do . Help?
If you don't have a contact at the company, I would start with a visit to legal counsel. You should go in with a non-disclosure agreement before you discuss/reveal the game idea. I would try to have the game as well developed as possible to show. For example, design/develop/print example game pieces, etc. If they have the exclusive right to the type of game already, it will be difficult for them and you to put a value on your idea. You might consider some sort of consulting arrangement for game development, then a percentage of the profits from game sales. That can be tricky to ensure you get paid, but makes it more inviting for them in terms of risk/investment.
I'll definitely look into all of that legal mumbo jumbo tomorrow, thanks. One thing I am worried about is that i'm only 16 years old. Could this hinder my chances of making money off this in any way? (to get some things straight, i'm not some hyped fanboy about something - i honestly think this would be marketable)
It is hard to get a company to talk to you at all for the reverse reason; they have a variety of games in development, and have to worry about potential conflicts with something they were planning to bring out and the idea you want to pitch. The age thing is only an issue for whether you can sign or your parent/guardian would have to also sign consent for the NDA and/or any resulting contract. Again, something a lawyer could tell you for your area. I still think the important thing is to find a way to get paid that provides the greatest incentive and the lowest risk to the game company.