Monopoly Empire Review
Monopoly Empire Review
Monopoly Empire Review dives into Hasbro’s high-speed twist on the classic property game, a standout from the Top 10 Christmas Toys 2013 list. Instead of buying streets and building hotels, players compete to own the world’s biggest brands, from Coca-Cola to Xbox. With its faster pace, flashy branding, and a more modern theme, Monopoly Empire became a hit for families who loved the original but wanted something new for Christmas game nights.
For the latest big-name festive hits, check out our best Christmas toys 2025 guide.
What’s in the Box?
- Monopoly Empire Game Board: Featuring a vertical “tower” design for stacking brand billboards.
- Empire Towers: Plastic towers used to collect your brand billboards.
- Brand Billboards: Tiles representing major companies and franchises.
- Chance & Empire Cards: Add twists and strategy to the game.
- Player Tokens: Custom pieces shaped like popular brand icons.
- Instructions: Clear rules for quick learning and set-up.
How It Works
Monopoly Empire reimagines the Monopoly formula with a fresh objective: fill your tower with brand billboards before your opponents do. Players move around the board, claim brands, and add them to their towers. Instead of managing rent and mortgages, the focus is on acquiring the most valuable brands and protecting them from being stolen by rivals.
The streamlined gameplay means most matches last under 30 minutes—ideal for family gatherings when you don’t have hours to spare. Chance and Empire cards keep things unpredictable, and the brand-based theme makes the game relatable for all ages.
Background & Cultural Impact
By 2013, Monopoly had seen countless themed editions, but Monopoly Empire stood out for its licensed brand partnerships and modern approach. It tapped into pop culture, consumerism, and the thrill of collecting recognisable names, making it appealing even to those who weren’t big fans of the original.
Its release sparked conversations about how board games evolve to stay relevant, with Monopoly Empire showing that shorter, more visually striking versions could attract new audiences without losing the core competitive spirit.
Play Benefits and Skill Development
- Strategic Thinking: Deciding which brands to target and when to block rivals.
- Negotiation Skills: Trading brands and making deals.
- Numeracy: Managing money and calculating values quickly.
- Social Interaction: Encourages conversation and friendly rivalry.
Festive Play Ideas
- Christmas Brand Challenge: Create house rules where festive brands get bonus points.
- Gift Swap Penalty: When you land on a rival’s brand, swap a wrapped present as a “fine.”
- ❄ Snow Day Tournament: Play multiple short games and crown the ultimate brand mogul.
Advanced Play
- Customise billboards with homemade festive designs.
- Add house rules for bonus payouts when collecting seasonal brands.
- Host a family championship with cumulative scores across games.
What Parents & Kids Are Saying
“So much faster than the original—keeps everyone engaged.”
“Love the brand theme—it feels fresh and modern.”
“Perfect length for a family game night.”
“The towers look amazing when they’re full.”
“Easy to teach and pick up—great for all ages.”
About Hasbro
Hasbro is a global leader in toys and games, with a portfolio ranging from family board games to blockbuster franchises like Transformers and Nerf. Known for innovation and reinvention, Hasbro continues to create games that appeal to multiple generations.
Why It Made the 2013 Christmas Charts
Retailing at around £19.99 in 2013, Monopoly Empire offered a visually striking, fast-paced alternative to the classic game. The combination of quick matches, competitive gameplay, and recognisable brands made it a popular choice for Christmas gatherings.
Best For Ages 8+
- Board game fans looking for a quick-play experience.
- Players who enjoy brand-themed collectibles.
- Families wanting a modern twist on a classic.
Parental Tips & Setup Notes
- Keep matches moving by setting time limits for turns.
- Store small parts in resealable bags to prevent loss.
- Encourage kids to plan ahead for brand steals and trades.
Where to Buy in 2025
Monopoly Empire is no longer in production but is readily available on resale sites and in specialist board game stores. Complete sets with all brand billboards and towers are particularly sought after by collectors.
Final Verdict
The Monopoly Empire set reimagined a family favourite for modern audiences. With shorter games, exciting brand themes, and eye-catching components, it earned its place as a 2013 Christmas hit—and remains a great option for fast, competitive fun today.
For more board game favourites, visit our most popular Christmas toys page or go directly to the Monopoly Empire product page.
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