Posted on
There’s no denying that Monopoly is one of the world’s most popular board games.
Since the game was created in 1903 (known back then as the anti-capitalist Landlord’s Game), there's been an abundance of different editions that have been produced, all of which have generated huge sales figures. So, why are we suggesting that you look for a Monopoly alternative?
Well, there are a few reasons why!
Firstly, although it’s often played by families, it’s not really one of the best board games for children. It can last for hours, everyone has different rules on how to play, and most players have little control of their fate. Likewise, Monopoly has something of a reputation for causing arguments and spoiling too many players’ enjoyment of board games.
In fact, a recent study conducted in America found that Monopoly starts more fights than any other board game. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with a bit of healthy competition! But when a board game causes too many arguments, it doesn’t exactly help you to spend quality time together as a family.
All of these factors combined mean that playing Monopoly gets old, really quick. So, if you’re bored of Monopoly and are looking for a fun alternative, that’s still a little bit similar, we’ve put together five of our favourite Gibson strategy games for you and your family to try.
Here are some Monopoly alternatives for families to play
Pass Go for good and check out some of our Monopoly alternatives. These games have all the excitement, fun, and strategy like Monopoly, but offer a fresh new experience for you to try. If you have any questions about these games, feel free to get in touch with a member of our team.
221B Baker Street
If your family loves a good detective drama or story, then our Sherlock Holmes game is perfect for you. Better known as the London address of one of the greatest fictional detectives, 221B Baker Street is a thought-provoking game that will require you to get your thinking caps on as you play.
Starting at the famous address, players will uncover a mystery by travelling through the streets of London, solving cryptic clues. There are over 75 different cases for you to tackle head-on, and unlike Monopoly - which uses the same format again and again - this makes 221B Baker Street a very versatile game!
Players will definitely be put to the test with 221B Baker Street, so we recommend that all players be aged 10+ and over. That’s why it’s the ideal board game of choice for families with older children who want a challenge!
Wembley
With the Euros well underway, you can keep the football spirit alive post-match with our Wembley board game. This family-friendly board game takes you all the way back to the glory of the 1984 FA Cup. Your family can recreate the game with your favourite teams as you try to knock out the competition.
Wembley’s gameplay has elements of Monopoly incorporated into the game, as players use their hard-earned cash to buy and sell players, as well as hoping that the odds are in their favour when they roll the cleverly weighted dice.
If you, your kids, or your partner are football mad, then this is definitely the best Monopoly alternative for them!
Civilization
If you love the...monopoly...aspect of Monopoly, then Civilization is a great, new alternative board game for you to try. Originally published way back in 1980, our team at Gibsons have redesigned and relaunched this classic game of strategy, due to popular demand.
Civilization is not a war game, although battles and territorial strategy are important. The object of the game is not to eliminate the other players on the board, but rather, you have to develop your ancient nation into a civilisation to be reckoned with.
Be warned though, this game is for serious players! Not only is it more mentally challenging than Monopoly, but you must also prepare yourself to be in it for the long haul. It can take you 4+ hours to fully complete Civilization but trust us, it’s worth it!
L'Attaque
Do you like simple strategy games that still put your brain to the test? Then playing L’Attaque is a great way to spend some quality time with another family member. Like chess, this ‘capture the flag’ style board game is just for two players, who must move their pieces to attack with the aim of capturing their opponent's Flag.
First launched in 1925, L'Attaque is actually the precursor to another popular strategy title, Stratego, and has been popular throughout history since. It was even the favourite board game of war-time Prime Minister Winston Churchill! Similar to Monopoly, our modernised version of L’Attaque is a brilliant game for adults, but it’s equally fun to play with your kids and family.
Diplomacy
If your family likes the ruthlessness element of Monopoly, then Diplomacy is a good alternative for you to try. Players represent one of the seven “Great Powers of Europe” in the years prior to World War I.
This board game is a classic game of strategy that tests the skills of the most sophisticated of table-top players. However, unlike Monopoly, there’s no dice and no luck involved. Instead, there’s just simple movements and negotiations between you and the other players. Similar to Civilization above, Diplomacy is a game aimed at older children and adults, so the young ones may need to sit this one out!
Why not try one of our Monopoly-alternative games!
At Gibsons, we produce board games and puzzles that entertain all generations. If you’re sick of Monopoly and want to try something new during your family game night, then roll the dice and take a look through our award-winning family board games. We have a variety of strategy skill games that children of all ages can take part in. Why not view the full collection here?
Got a question about one of our games or puzzles? Feel free to get in touch, a member of our team will be more than happy to help you.
0 comments