Let's face it, Monopoly isn't for everyone. Some find it too long, too cut-throat. For others, though, that's exactly what makes it fun! If this classic is one of your favorite games, you'll want to check out these games like Monopoly. Each one provides some of the same game mechanics you love, with its own special twist.
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For Sale
Even the most avid Monopoly players might not know that the original rules include auctions. When you land on a property and choose not to buy it, the rules state the other players may hold an auction to bid for it instead. That's how For Sale works, too. Each player bids on property cards, attempting to get them for a great deal. Once you have them, you work to develop them and make them more valuable, eventually selling them for (hopefully) more than you spent up front. This is a game for those who love the wheeling and dealing aspect of Monopoly, without all the bother of rolling dice and passing Go. (3-6 players, ages 8+)
Pay Day
On the other, hand if what you love about Monopoly is budgeting and making the most of your money, you might love Payday. This game's been around for awhile, and still has plenty of fans. Players make their way through the month, making deals, paying bills, and managing their cash. Each time pay day rolls around, you get more money, but you also have to deal with any loans you may have taken. At the end, the player with the most moolah wins! (2-4 players, ages 8+)
Raccoon Tycoon
Welcome to the town of Astoria, where players vie to own the best money-making railroads. Produce the most valuable commodities, then use them to build and sell towns, raising money to bid in railroad auctions. As in Monopoly, adding buildings to your town increases its value. Though there's no traditional game board, this game definitely has Monopoly vibes. (2-5 players, ages 8+)
Ticket to Ride
If you're the kind of Monopoly player that snatches up all the railroads, Ticket to Ride might be your jam! Collect cards to build and claim railroad routes across the country. Longer routes earn you more points, and connecting distant cities offers even higher rewards. Ticket to Ride has become one of the hottest games in recent years, with additional versions and expansion packs now available. (2-5 players, ages 8+)
The Game of Life
Here's another classic that shares some of Monopoly's best traits. Players make their way through a lifetime from childhood to retirement, doing their best to make enough money to retire on top. Watch out for pitfalls like accidents and tax bills along the way, and don't forget to buy insurance! (2-6 players, ages 10+)
Lords of Vegas
Think of this one kind of like Monopoly in Vegas! Players compete to buy empty lots, then develop and build the biggest and best casinos. Buy, sell, trade, and even gamble as you work to own the hottest properties on the Strip. Note that this game can be hard to buy new right now (although the company that makes it promises a new version is coming soon). Meanwhile, check local game stores, Goodwill, and eBay to find your own copy. (2-4 players, ages 12+)
Pirate King
This game replaces top hats with pirate hats, and Atlantic City with the Caribbean. Set a target territory and roll the dice. If you manage to land on it, you can capture the port, battle the current owner, or pay the dockage fee. Once a territory is yours, do your best to hang onto all your booty. Smuggle cargo and battle the commodore to gain enough points to win the game! (2-4 players, ages 10+)
The Allowance Game
This is one of the best games like Monopoly options for kids. Developed specifically to help youngsters learn money skills, The Allowance Game is still lots of fun. Little ones can build their confidence with this game before joining the family for epic Monopoly sessions! (2-4 players, ages 5-11)
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