The classic board
game Monopoly is now available for the iPhone and the iPod Touch.
Monopoly Here & Now: The World Edition doesn't try to be
clever and reinvent this classic game but rather remains faithful to
the original concept and the only thing different about this version
are the locations where you play.
As opposed to the
famous streets of America, the England or Australia, Monopoly
Here and Now: The World Edition adds a variety of locations from
around the world as opposed to country editions. It does take a few
turns for the brain to become use to these locations but it's all
good old fashioned fun. Money is a little different in this version
and uses Monopoly money as opposed to real world currencies.
Monopoly on the
iPhone/iPod Touch also features a local version (single-player or
pass and play) and the ability of a WiFi game. As mentioned, the
game is virtually identically to the Monopoly board game which
requires the player to roll the dice (shake the device) and then
attempt to buy up big on the board by purchasing various properties.
Once you have purchased these locations, you can then build houses
or hotels on them.
If you land a
property already owned by another player and there is a house built
on it, you will need to pay a "tax". Eventually, elimination plays a
process in the game as the victor one by one knocks out the other
players through bankruptcy. Sometimes properties can be traded and
bided off in an auction style that replicates the Monopoly
experience well. If you do become a little confused,
Monopoly on the iPhone/iPod has a tutorial and a help option to
assist those a little unfamiliar or rusty over the rules.
Graphically, the
title looks great on the iPhone 4, thanks to the additional support
of retina display. However if you don't own the new iPhone or iPod
Touch, it still looks quite acceptable on older units. The game also
has this great 3D aspect to it and match that with a variety of
board game sound effects and it all comes together perfectly.
In conclusion, even
though the single-player game is a little boring, playing via WiFi
or "Pass 'n Play" is where Monopoly comes into its own. Perfect for
a long trip or a long wait. And even if you run out of time, you can
resume the game right where you left off.
Definitely great
value for money!
