Monopoly Turns 80
Whether you want to believe that Milton Bradley’s game, Monopoly, was created by actress Elizabeth Magie or entrepreneur Charles Darrow, there’s no denying that it continues to be the world’s most loved board game. Celebrating 80 years, the original Monopoly has been transformed to encapsulate cultures all over the world, both physical and cyber. Although the names of the properties may change the premise is still the same: we want it all and we want it now!
Darrow’s original ten playing pieces were inspired by charms on a bracelet from his nieces. But just as society and the environment have evolved over history, so has the game of Monopoly. No longer are players limited to riding the race car around Atlantic City; the game is available in 111 countries and 43 languages (not including Klingon.) And, as if mastering monopoly of the earth wasn’t enough, Monopoly has also expanded its empire to space with the Night Sky, Star Trek, Star Wars, and Dr. Who editions.
What do the Simpson’s, the Godfather, and the Lord of the Rings all have in common? Yep, there’s a Monopoly for that. If it’s popular anywhere, you can bet there’s a Monopoly edition just waiting to be played. From music to television to the movies to the Internet, Milton Bradley’s Monopoly has done it all. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Elvis fans can rock out a game. Is your daughter a princess or a zombie lover? Check out the Disney Princess or the Walking Dead editions. Into graphic novels? Whether you Marvel at comics or mix it up with Manga, there’s a board for you. Not really into board games? You can play online or on your phone or tablet. There’s an app for both the iPhone and Android platforms.
The original edition sported $20,580 in paper bills doled out by the banker, but today no cash is needed if you choose to pay with a debit card. With an ATM and plastic money cards, the Electronic Banking edition keeps it real. Although you might not be able to afford the $2 million set cast in gold and studded with diamonds, you can still lap up the luxury in the “Empire” television show edition. And to round out the celebration, no matter which edition you choose to play, don’t miss out on munching on a chocolate Monopoly board and gummy playing pieces. Happy 80th Anniversary, Monopoly!
Jonah Engler is a finance expert and a part time coffee lover. Jonah loves to spend time with his family playing monopoly on the weekends.