Game Review

Concept:

Become the richest player by buying, selling, and renting property.

Gameplay:

On a players' turn, the player rolls the dice and moves their piece. If the property that the player lands on is unowned, the player may purchase it. If it is owned by another player, rent is paid to the owner.

If a player can own all properties associated with a particular color group, they have a monopoly and can build houses and hotels -- thus raising the rental price for opposing players.

Trading and selling of property between players is encouraged in the game.

Winning Conditions:

• The player who has the most money and property at the end of the game wins.

Our Opinion:

This game has been around for a very long time. It's rules are well known and there are even national tournaments just for it. Playing this game in a review setting really opened my eyes.

This game is one that I have learned to hate. Largely, because it emulates the business world far too well. Initially, getting property is luck based. Later, when you try to deal with the other players, the competition is so steep that you can go broke fast.

When reviewing this game, we kept very friendly and the game stayed fun. But, as with all gamers, when we started to get competitive, I could really see how I learned to hate playing this game. If you are lucky enough to get a monopoly based on dice rolls, chances are that you will win the game. If you have to trade with other players to keep competitive -- all it takes to crush you is the refusal to sell a property to you.

When players are competing to the point of refusing to sell -- friendships outside of the game can be hurt. Monopoly, unfortunately for me, has been the best example of games that go too far. Most Americans have played it, many like it still -- it is a well written game. If you have friendly people playing it, as I said before, it can stay fun. But when you have players who "go for the kill," this game gets nasty fast.

It should be obvious by its longevity in the marketplace (since 1935!) that this game is recommended. Don't spend too much on it though. Any nostalgia play or learning is best done with the basic set. It is great for teaching basic math & economics to kids and adults. The strategy is limited, but then again -- how much do you need?

Where to buy:

Any local toy store -- Our copy was from a Target and cost about $10.