Monopoly is a household name that has been around since the early 20th century, since then it has become one of the most sold board games in history, selling over 275 million copies worldwide. Due to its popularity, there has also been a wide range of different editions produced, these come with different ways of playing the game or with editions that come from your favourite movies and TV shows. There are so many editions that it can be very tough to choose which to purchase, so here we have provided you with a list of our 10 favourite Monopoly Editions.
Understanding Monopoly Editions
Monopoly’s journey began in 1935 when Parker Brothers secured its patent. Initially, there was just one standard edition. But, as it gained popularity, different versions started emerging. By 1991, Hasbro acquired Parker Brothers and continued expanding Monopoly's portfolio with more innovative and appealing editions.
The first thematic version of Star Wars Monopoly appeared in 1994, marking a shift towards pop culture-themed games. Another milestone occurred in 2008 when Hasbro introduced Monopoly Here & Now: The Industry Edition, which featured iconic cities from around the globe instead of Atlantic City properties.
Different Types of Monopoly Editions
As interest in Monopoly grew over time, so did its variety. Today's players can choose from many options catering to distinct tastes:
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Thematic Editions: These incorporate popular films or TV shows like 'Game of Thrones' or 'Stranger Things', transforming familiar settings into competitive trading grounds.
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Anniversary Editions: Released to commemorate key milestones such as the game's 60th or 80th anniversary.
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Here & Now Editions: With an updated property list featuring worldwide destinations rather than classic American locales.
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Junior Versions: Customized for younger players with simplified rules and captivating themes like unicorns or dinosaurs.
10. Monopoly Stranger Things
Brimming with eerie elements from the Netflix original series, 'Monopoly Stranger Things' edition stands out in its uniqueness. Adding a twist to the classic Monopoly format, it's immersed in the mysterious industry of Hawkins, Indiana. This version allows players to move around the board as their favourite characters from the show.
The game design reflects the series' 80s setting and supernatural theme. From Joyce's Christmas lights to an Eggo waffle piece, each token represents key elements of Stranger Things. Players can build forts and hideouts instead of houses and hotels, offering a fresh take on traditional gameplay.
In this alternate universe, properties are replaced by locations from Hawkins like Mike's basement or Starcourt Mall. Drawing Walkie-Talkie cards or Blinking Lights cards can either propel you forward or push you back - echoing unpredictable events in the show.
For fans of Stranger Things, this edition is more than just a game; it’s a collectable item featuring unique artwork from the series. With its upside-down purple-hued monopoly money and designed tokens such as Max's skateboard or Lucas' slingshot - it presents an enticing collector's value.
This game offers a captivating experience for both avid fans of Stranger Things and Monopoly enthusiasts alike. It blends nostalgia with novelty while maintaining core aspects that make Monopoly beloved worldwide.
9. Monopoly Roblox Edition
In this unique version, properties are swapped with popular experiences from the Roblox platform. Players collect rent from their opponents to expand their in-game empire, just like in traditional monopoly. But, instead of building houses and hotels, players here develop game spaces and studios on their properties - a nod to the creative aspect of Roblox.
The Monopoly Roblox edition boasts six tokens inspired by iconic accessories from the online platform such as a Classic Noob, Dominus Frigidus or Sparkle Time Fedora among others. The artwork on the board reflects various environments found within Roblox games giving it an engaging quality.
This edition isn't just for gamers; it also holds collector's value for fans of both Monopoly and Roblox. The box is adorned with vibrant illustrations displaying popular characters and scenes from Robox universe making it highly appealing visually.
8. Monopoly Naruto Edition
The gameplay in this edition reflects the essence of ‘Naruto’, capturing players' imaginations with its unique features. For instance, instead of traditional houses and hotels, players build custom Training Areas and Dojos, mirroring the narrative in Naruto’s universe.
Adding to its appeal are six collectable tokens designed after beloved characters: Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, Sakura Haruno, Kakashi Hatake, Gaara and Zabuza Momochi. These tokens not only elevate game aesthetics but also enhance player connection with the game due to their sentimental value to fans.
In line with Monopoly tradition yet skewed towards fan service for 'Naruto' enthusiasts; properties on this board are replaced by popular locations from Konoha Village such as The Academy or Hokage Monument. Players can buy these places instead of standard Monopoly properties like Park Place or Boardwalk.
What distinguishes Monopoly Naruto further is its vibrant artwork that beautifully encapsulates key aspects of 'Naruto.’ Every detail on the board —from Community Chest cards reimagined as Ninja Scrolls to Chance cards revamped as Training Grounds—helps recreate an authentic 'Naruto' experience for players.
7. Monopoly The Nightmare Before Christmas Edition
Monopoly the Nightmare Before Christmas Edition offers unique elements that enhance player engagement. It includes six custom tokens inspired by characters from the film such as Jack Skellington's skull, Sally, Evil Teddy, Oogie Boogie, Zombie Duck and Mayor's Hearse. These tokens add a personal touch to the game, making it more engaging for fans of the movie.
In this edition, players buy and sell locations from Halloween Town instead of traditional properties. For instance, Dr Finkelstein's Laboratory replaces Mayfair whilst Jack’s Tower takes the place of Old Kent Road. Chance cards are replaced with Halloween presents while Community Chest cards transform into Christmas presents - both reflecting key aspects of the film.
The aesthetics in this edition reflect strikingly dark yet whimsical artwork reminiscent of Tim Burton's style. Encased within an intricately designed box featuring characters from 'The Nightmare Before Christmas', it serves as an eye-catching collector’s item or a gift option for fans.
This version maintains classic Monopoly mechanics while infusing elements from 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' universe into its gameplay strategy and design details. Overall, it delivers a distinct gaming experience that brings joy to both Monopoly enthusiasts and lovers of Tim Burton's masterpiece alike.
6. Monopoly Deadpool Edition
Diving deeper into the area of themed Monopoly editions, one encounters the Monopoly Deadpool edition. This version takes a unique spin on the classic board game by introducing elements from Marvel's popular anti-hero character, Deadpool.
The main attraction of this edition lies in its custom tokens. Each token represents a humorous item from Deadpool's life — such as a taco and a chef’s hat — bringing an essence of Deadpool’s quirky personality to the gameplay.
Displaying comprehensive knowledge about Marvel characters isn't necessary for enjoying this game. It incorporates traditional Monopoly mechanics, ensuring that all players can jump right into playing without needing exact background knowledge about the theme.
In line with the character's distinctive humour, property cards are replaced by mercenary-themed cards. These include locations where Deadpool carried out his notorious assignments or memorable spots related to his adventures.
The artwork on these cards showcases vibrant images inspired by comic book panels and movie scenes featuring Deadpool himself. This attention to detail enhances immersion, making players feel like they're part of Deadpool's industry while moving around the game board.
Also, money is replaced with chimichangas – one of Deadpool’s favourite dishes – adding another layer of fun to transactions during gameplay.
5. Monopoly Lord Of The Rings Edition
Venturing into the mystical area of Middle Earth, you'll find the 'Monopoly Lord Of The Rings Edition'. This edition captures the essence of J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy series, offering avid fans a chance to engage themselves in their favourite fictional universe.
Distinct from standard Monopoly editions, this version boasts gameplay features unique to Tolkien's industry. Instead of traditional properties, players can buy iconic locations from Middle Earth like Rivendell and Mordor. Similarly, Chance and Community Chest cards transform into 'Good' and 'Evil' cards respectively, presenting events in line with the theme.
Custom tokens are central to each themed Monopoly edition. In this iteration, players might select tokens modelled after recognisable elements from Lord of The Rings such as Frodo’s Ring or Gandalf’s Hat. These tokens not only add a layer of immersion but also provide collectors with another reason to treasure this edition.
The game board showcases intricate artwork inspired by Tolkien's richly detailed universe. From hobbit holes to towering fortresses, each property square features an image representative of its corresponding location in Middle Earth. Also, even the currency gets a thematic twist - instead of classic money notes, players trade using themed paper notes resembling Middle-Earth currencies.
This excursion into Tolkien's industry doesn't compromise on familiar Monopoly mechanics; it enhances them with thematic elements for an engaging experience. For enthusiasts seeking novel ways to enjoy their favourite board game or die-hard Lord of The Rings fans desiring a collectable item that marries their love for both universes – they'll find that this edition strikes a compelling balance between familiarity and novelty.
4. Monopoly Fortnite Edition
Exploring deeper into the varied industry of themed Monopoly editions, we come across the 'Monopoly Fortnite Edition'. This edition embraces the popular battle royale video game 'Fortnite', integrating its unique elements into the classic board game format. It's a testament to Hasbro's capacity for innovation and ability to stay relevant to contemporary trends.
The original mechanics of Monopoly find a new lease of life in this edition, with adaptations inspired by 'Fortnite'. Players don't simply buy properties; they claim locations from the video game map. It replaces standard currency with Fortnite’s in-game currency, V-Bucks. Even traditional houses and hotels are replaced by walls that players can construct as they traverse around the board.
In keeping with the theme, this edition features 27 character outfits as tokens, each reflecting one of Fortnite’s diverse avatars. The Community Chest cards tailor-made for this edition mirror ‘Chests’ from the game which provide players power-ups or items, adding another layer of authenticity to player experience.
Authenticity extends beyond gameplay mechanics and into visual design. The artwork on both box art and board reflects vivid locales from Fortnite Island - an eye-catching blend of bold colours and intricate detail that enhances player immersion.
Unlike most traditional versions of Monopoly where accruing wealth is key to victory, in here it's about survival - closely mirroring Fortnite's combat-centric gameplay. Players earn health point chips instead of money whilst battling opponents or traversing through Storm spaces on the board; lose them all, you're out! This adds an exhilarating twist to gameplay dynamics that'll appeal especially to fans familiar with 'Fortnite'.
So, while preserving core aspects of traditional Monopoly play style, this iteration offers fresh perspectives customized specifically towards a younger demographic who are fans of Fortnite. It provides a unique and engaging gaming experience, reinforcing the belief that Monopoly can adapt to contemporary trends without compromising its classic essence.
3. Monopoly Pokémon Kanto Region Edition
Emerging as a favourite among fans of both Monopoly and the industry-famous franchise, Pokémon, the Monopoly Pokémon Kanto Region Edition stakes its claim for attention. This edition captures the essence of classic Monopoly while immersing players in the vibrant industry of Pokémon.
In this rendition, traditional property squares become various Pokémon from the original 151 that inhabit the Kanto region. Players can choose from six metal tokens: Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Eevee or Jigglypuff. Instead of houses and hotels, sculpted Poké Marts and Poké Centres rise on properties.
It's all about strategy in this game variant where players travel around the board catching and trading their favorite pocket monsters to create powerful teams. The goal remains consistent with traditional monopoly – aiming for domination by bankrupting opponents through strategic purchases.
This edition offers a unique twist with customised Chance (renamed Trainer Battle) and Community Chest (renamed Professor Oak) cards that are customized to reflect typical scenarios within a trainer’s journey across Kanto. These cards introduce an element of unpredictability into gameplay, adding excitement that mirrors encounters in the original video games.
By successfully integrating elements of both entities into one captivating experience - maintaining key aspects such as strategic buying while introducing familiar characters from Pokemon universe - Monopoly Pokemon Kanto Region Edition undoubtedly sits among the best editions ever released.
2. Monopoly Cheaters Edition
Continuing the exploration of exceptional Monopoly editions, we investigate an edition that encourages players to bend the rules: The Monopoly Cheaters Edition. Launched by Hasbro in 2018, this version turns traditional gameplay on its head by allowing, even encouraging, players to cheat.
Monopoly Cheaters Edition includes 15 cheat cards that direct players to commit various misdemeanours during play. These range from skipping rent payments, moving another player's token without detection, or sneakily adding a hotel to your property. But remember - there's risk involved; if you're caught in the act, prepare for penalties!
The game board itself features exact spots for these contraventions - Cheat Spaces and Penalty Spaces - adding a thrilling twist to the classic experience. Also, it comes with plastic handcuffs that serve as a humorous yet fitting punishment for those who are caught.
Adopting classic aesthetics with a mischievous twist, this edition offers redesigned property cards featuring descriptions of potential cheats tied to each property. It also sports a striking black game board adorned with vibrant colours and eye-catching graphics that perfectly capture its unique theme.
This edition does away with houses altogether and includes fewer hotels than standard versions – a clear nod towards promoting unconventional strategies for asset accumulation.
This innovative take on the classic board game has been well-received worldwide due to its fun-filled approach of encouraging strategic mischief among players. It received Toy Association’s “Game of the Year” award in 2019 – solid proof of its popularity among both critics and consumers alike.
In essence, Monopoly Cheaters Edition is more than just another themed version; it's an entirely new spin on traditional gameplay mechanics designed specifically around cunning tactics and deceptive manoeuvres. If you're seeking an exciting twist on family game nights or friendly gatherings, this edition might just be the perfect choice.
1. Monopoly Game of Thrones
In the area of board games, few alliances are as intriguing as that between Monopoly and the colossal TV series, Game of Thrones. The Monopoly Game of Thrones Edition merges the thrill of Westerosi power struggles with the classic gameplay mechanics associated with this industry-renowned game.
The gameplay elements in this rendition stay true to its source material. Players trade and acquire locations from all seven kingdoms in their search for dominion over Westeros. Iconic landmarks like Castle Black and King's Landing feature on the visually stunning game board, offering players a sense of immersion into George R.R Martin’s fantasy universe.
Adding to its allure, it incorporates unique features such as "Holdfasts" and "Castles" instead of Houses and Hotels respectively. Also, traditional money notes are replaced by Gold Dragons and Silver Stags – currencies in the fictional industry.
Six collectable player tokens exist – each one representing key symbols from prominent Houses: Stark Direwolf, Lannister Lion, Targaryen Dragon, Baratheon Crowned Stag, Greyjoy Kraken and Tyrell Rose.
A standout aspect is undoubtedly the soundtrack-enabled Iron Throne card holder. It plays an instrumental version of the show's iconic theme tune when pressed - a touch that heightens the atmosphere during gameplay sessions.
Even though it has thematic complexity, it remains accessible to players who aren't familiar with the television series or books due to retaining core Monopoly principles at its heart. So making it not just appealing for fans but also those seeking a refreshing twist to their board game collection.
