Monopoly fans are just realising they've been playing wrong their whole lives
The classic family board game Monopoly is well-known for its never-ending gameplay and frequent domestic disputes over the roles of the banker or rent negotiations after landing on another player's property.
However, it turns out that there is indeed a finite end to the game, which isn't widely known and doesn't align with the common quarrels that arise during play.
Despite spawning numerous themed editions like The Simpsons, Fortnite, and even a Bass Fishing version, Monopoly's core rules remain unchanged. Official instructions clarify what happens when the bank runs out of money and address earning potential while 'in jail'.
The resolution to many age-old family arguments has been provided by a TikTok user versed in board games; their explanation of lesser-known official Monopoly rules suggests many have been playing with homemade codes rather than sticking to the rulebook. What better time to brush up on the rules than today, National Board Game Day (November 19)?
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The TikToker, known as Tanner, has gained attention online after sharing his insights, particularly during the festive season when the game is often played.
He pointed out: "Over the Christmas period, it's likely you'll bust out the Monopoly board at least once. But you've probably been playing by house rules instead of the official ones."
Tanner then highlighted some official but commonly overlooked rules that surprised many players who had previously favoured their self-made versions. Among his clarifications was a significant revelation regarding property purchases: "You can start buying property straight away. You don't have to go around the board once beforehand."
His revelations sparked surprise among fans who hadn't realised that this was how Monopoly was intended to be played.
Tanner has clarified some common misconceptions about the rules of Monopoly, starting with the function of Free Parking. Contrary to popular belief, he stated, "all the taxes go in the middle, and the person who lands on Free Parking gets it all," but that's not true.
"Free Parking is just a normal square that doesn't do anything," he said. He also shed light on the official procedure when a player refuses to purchase a property: "According to the official rules, when a property is landed on, and nobody wants to buy it, that property goes to auction."
Additionally, Tanner confirmed that players can still collect money while incarcerated: "You can earn money while in jail: In the official rules, you simply can't go around the board or buy anything."
He dispelled another myth regarding the "Go" space, revealing that there is no extra reward for landing on it as per the official rules. Lastly, he addressed the issue of bankruptcy, explaining that it's not the bank but rather the creditor who receives the bankrupt player's assets and remaining funds.
