D&D meets Monopoly
Sometimes you just have to ask yourself – Why?
Why is the DMV so incompetent? Why did they make a Matrix 2 & 3 when the first movie was near perfect? Why would anyone think we need a Dungeons and Dragons themed Monopoly game? Hmmmmm – actually, if you think it about it…..they were all money grabs.
Since WotC can never miss a licensing opportunity - Yesterday USAOpoly (a game publishing company specializing in the production and distribution of licensed versions of classic games such as Monopoly, Trivial Pursuit, Yahtzee) announced the release of a D&D crossover game.
Allegedly set in Faerun (even though at least two of the railroads have been rebranded as Tomb of Horrors and Castle Ravenloft), the goal is to buy Monsters instead of properties as you work your way around the Monopoly board.
The Monster “Properties” appear to be based on the CR level – for example, one of the cheapest property on the board in regular Monopoly is Mediterranean Ave. In this version it is represented by a Kobold. Likewise, the most expensive (Boardwalk) is represented by a Tarrasque. While a unique perspective – why would I build buildings on top of a Monster? In fact, since most of these monsters are sentient - by owning them as property…..doesn’t that make them slaves? Hmmmmm…..must have beers and ponder.
Chance and Community Chest have been replaced by Treasure and Encounter cards, while Railroads are now Locations (Tomb of Horrors, Undermountain, Castle Raveloft and one indiscernible).
Overall, this is just bad. It looks like it was put together buy a bunch of mid-level marketers that never once played a game of D&D. What does “Go”, “Go to Jail” or “Free Parking” have to do with D&D? Simply calling Jail a Dungeon and adjusting “Go to Jail” accordingly (maybe calling it Banishment) would have changed the look/feel of this game significantly. Free Parking could have Dragon Horde (collect all the money in the middle) would have been another nice twist – as would plastic coins instead of paper money (thus creating motivation to buy….just to use them as props in your regular game). Even the tokens, while nice, could have been put on better bases so they too could be repurposed for actual D&D. Instead - we just get Monster Names and buzz words slapped onto the Monopoly Template - and presto…..Cash Grab.
Sadly, this game will sell – even though the MSRP is $39.99 (vs the Classic Edition being approx. $20). Parents or Family members who not understand D&D or RPGs will buy these as gifts – thinking they did great, and to be honest……I think that is USAOpoly’s Marketing Strategy. Pray on those who ill informed.
Personally – I will be putting this on my “Do Not Buy List”, because I would rather have a new gaming book or module……you know, things that actually have something to do with the game we love.
