Brits would be forgiven for thinking that Monopoly began with the London edition. After all, why would anyone from the UK opt to play an American version? If you grew up thinking that Pall Mall and Old Kent Road were among the original squares of the board game, you wouldn’t be alone.
Sorry to break this to you, but Monopoly is an American game. It began with the Atlantic City version, which is still one of the most popular variants across the pond. You’ll be happy to know, though, that the UK version is the second-most popular edition around the world.
Monopoly London is the Second Biggest Variant of the Game
The Parker Brothers first started marketing the Atlantic City version of Monopoly in 1935, and its popularity immediately boomed. The Americans are renowned for stealing things from us, but on this occasion, it was the other way around. The London variant came out a year later and was an instant smash hit over here.
London was already an iconic city before the board game was released, but the Parker Brothers offering helped more people around the country and the world get familiar with some of the key settings. This edition is such a cultural powerhouse that some of the places are still engrained in people’s minds after years away from the game.
Think about it, if someone asks you what colour Oxford Street or the Strand is, you’ll probably be able to reply instantly.
Monopoly Franchise Still Booming in Popular Culture
The London version of Monopoly helped the game become one of the world’s most famous pastimes and acted as a springboard for what was to follow. In the years since then, the brand has evolved greatly, and there are now hundreds of different editions. It has also adapted to different platforms and technology, meaning that a greater number of people than ever can connect with the product.
Some of the ways Monopoly has adapted to the online world have been highly innovative.
For instance, there’s a Monopoly Casino now that’s designed to tap into the bustling iGaming market. As the platform got included in several casino lists available on the web, it became apparent how many people are attracted by the legendary brand. It provides new ways to enjoy Monopoly, including a free spins bonus on Monopoly Paradise Mansion.
Plenty of Opportunities for New Twists
Just as you can be sure that the sun will continue to rise in the east and set in the west, you can bet your bottom Monopoly dollar on the fact that the brand will keep evolving into the new future.
With virtual reality soon set to take the world by storm, there could soon be VR versions of the board game. There could even be new twists, such as side games within the different locations on the board.
Of all the hundreds of Monopoly editions, the London one is still up there with the best. That is testament to how iconic the English capital is, and how many people want to experience its locations.