The Monopoly game is turning 75 and to celebrate, Hasbro has given it a makeover and renamed it Monopoly Revolution. Although the basic game maintains the traditional rules we all know and love, some modern twists and turns have been added to reflect today’s modern society. Destined to once again be one of the best Christmas toys this year, let’s see what this Monopoly revolution is all about.
If it is not broke, do not fix it! For as many years as I can remember, Monopoly has been the family favorite property trading game and it has kept a very traditional look and feel. It comprised a very simple set of rules and it was all based on a roll of the dice and a bit of cunning to buy the best properties. There have been quite a few updates in recent years to introduce Monopoly to people who might not otherwise have thought to play the game. For example, there is a version of Spider-Man that, instead of the player’s usual metal pieces in the shape of the dog, iron, and car, are small models of Spider-Man and his enemies. Even the Simpsons have gotten involved with the Monopoly legacy!
The version of Monopoly for children keep the game shorter and much simpler for the kids to follow. But this year sees a much more drastic makeover in the guise of Monopoly Revolution. As the name suggests, this is a new shape board. Instead of the more recognizable square game board, you now have a circular playing area.
To reflect a real estate market that has changed dramatically in the last 75 years, even property prices have a more realistic look. The big properties we always try to get to first, which can easily win the game once covered in hotels like Mayfair, which were normally a mere £400, are now a whopping £4m! Even the lame duck that nobody really wanted, Old Kent Road is now £600,000!
Millions Tracking which will change hands and serve as a banker, dice and sound effects and music player is a gaming device. So no more playing with paper money, everything is recorded electronically. One of my favorite sound effects is when you go to jail and hear the jail door close! While there are many other minor tweaks to the original Monopoly game to bring it up to date, you still have the same basic necessities of being able to bargain and deal well to win the game.
Monopoly Revolution may not be for purists from the traditional version of the game. But if you like the idea of a game with a modern twist that reflects more realistic property values, Hasbro’s Monopoly Revolutions should definitely be on your list of top Christmas toys to buy for gifts this year.
