It's fair to say that when it comes to board games, it doesn't get much more iconic than Monopoly. The cult classic game has seen many families eagerly buying up properties in some of London's most popular spots whilst avoiding the dreaded jail area. Having first reached shop shelves in 1935, this game has graced many households whether it be during the festive season, for parties, or cosy family nights in.
Monopoly has come a long way since its release with many variations and twists now available from the mega edition to the deal card game. While it can get pretty competitive, this game knows how to keep players on their toes and can be a lot of fun for all the family. Take a look at our picks of the best Monopoly games to enjoy with your loved ones.
The Best Monopoly Games:
![Monopoly Original](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6184/13b4/8e6c/e1b6/e083/71e6/monopoly_original.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Monopoly Original is a classic choice that will be sure to resonate with many fans of the game who may have started off playing this version. After selecting a token which could be anything from the dog and car to the newly introduced rubber ducky or Penguin, players buy, sell and trade property to win. You may fancy building a hotel in Mayfair or perhaps buying property around Pall Mall or Bond Street, this game is sure to go down a treat with the family. Players: 2-6
![Monopoly Mega Board Game](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6184/1828/6422/723e/ca19/48d1/monopoly_mega_edition.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
The Monopoly Mega Edition takes the classic version up a level with the introduction of new areas including Downing Street, Saville Row, and Knightsbridge. As well as new streets, players can also invest in skyscrapers and depots as well as hotels and houses. Players do however still need to watch out for taxes, jail, and bankruptcy which could sacrifice all of their efforts in the game. Players: 2-6
![Monopoly Junior Game](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6189/2a60/ca17/b421/5acb/92a4/monopoly_junior.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Want to play Monopoly with little ones? This simplified version of the classic game is a great way of introducing kids to the world of Monopoly. The game is suitable for children between the ages of five to eight years old and features a number of notable differences. The money has been reduced to single digits making for easier sums plus, the locations have been changed to more child-friendly options from the zoo to an ice cream parlour. Players: 2-4
![Monopoly Deal Card Game](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6189/2a6f/0875/d4cf/1384/9780/monopoly_deal_card_game.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Switch the game board for a card set with this pick which takes the classic Monopoly game and condenses it into a more portable version that is perfect for travel and shorter games. This faster-paced version features 110 cards and only takes 15 minutes to play. Players: 2-5
![Monopoly Christmas Edition](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6189/2a86/2ae7/740d/db24/500a/monopoly_christmas_edition.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
There's nothing quite like whipping out a board game to play with all the family at Christmas and this festive edition of Monopoly is perfect for the big day. Whilst there's not much change to the rules, the properties have been given a festive overhaul. Players can also pick from a number of fun tokens including Christmas pudding and reindeer. Players: 2-6
![Roald Dahl Monopoly Board Game](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6189/42cc/8e6c/e114/4f83/a53a/monopoly_roald_dahl.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Any fans of Roald Dahl will absolutely love this edition which takes inspiration from all the much-loved books. Players can visit their favourite characters and locations from the BFG to Cruchem Hall as featured in Matilda. The tokens have also been given a makeover with options including James' Giant Peach, Matilda's Books, and Willy Wonka's Sweets amongst others. Players: 2-6
![Monopoly Builder Board Game](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6189/42ed/0875/d4f9/bf84/99b7/monopoly_builder.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
This version of the game will have players unleashing their inner developer with the chance to build properties on Monopoly Island. The main aim of this edition is to collect cash and resources to build a penthouse before the other players. Once completed, the player with the most points wins.
![Monopoly Game: Cheaters Edition](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6189/4367/2ae7/7434/5624/512a/monopoly_cheaters_edition.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
This edition of Monopoly takes the game to a new level and will be sure to cause quite a stir. Instead of following the rules, cards will encourage players to attempt to get away with as many cheats as possible. If that's not enough, in an interesting twist, if a player gets caught they will be handcuffed to the jail.
Can you get a customised Monopoly board?
My Monopoly is an official Monopoly game that lets you print out fully customised properties and holidays that are sure to create laughs with your loved ones. However, there are other options when it comes to getting a more personalised Monopoly board with many unofficial takes on the game available on Etsy.
Custom-opoly Board Game from TheDiceGuysand Custom YourOpoly Game from DanuKatesDesigns are two highly rated board games available on Etsy that offer up great customisation.
Why is it called Monopoly?
A Monopoly refers to a person, company, or entity that has control over or ownership of the majority of a market. The aim of the Monopoly game is to own everything on the board including all the other player's cash and as a result, become a figure of Monopoly.
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