Bristol, currently celebrating 650 years of independent county status, is being honoured with an official version of the world’s most popular board game.
The announcement of the MONOPOLY: Bristol Edition game takes place tomorrow (Thursday 11th May 2023).
From the Norman ruins of Bristol Castle to the modern city of food and culture of today, the board will embrace Bristol’s history and heritage.
In the year 2000 Bristol first landed its own board. That game, hugely popular in its’ day, was discontinued several years ago.
This time – unlike in 2000 in the pre social media and reality TV vote show days – the public will have its say on which Bristol landmarks (30+ of them) should feature on the multi-coloured MONOPOLY squares.
The board is being produced by London-based games company Winning Moves UK, under licensing from global branded entertainment leader Hasbro.
Winning Moves UK is the same company that produced the customised Bristol board back in the year 2000. At that time Anchor Road was ‘Mayfair’ and Temple Street ‘Old Kent Road’ – respectively the most expensive and most affordable squares in the game.
“It’s a new game for a new generation,” says John Keen-Tomlinson from Winning Moves UK.
The property sets will be themed in genres. From heritage to tourism, hotels to shopping, business to charity – and more. There may even be a street art set – unique on any MONOPOLY board anywhere in the world – in recognition of Bristol’s thriving art culture. Landmarks that are expected to be heavily nominated to feature in the game include the Clifton Suspension Bridge, both football clubs, the University of Bristol and M Shed. Bristol charities will also be represented.
The cards will be Bristol themed too – one may send players to Somerset rather than the MONOPOLY jail.
Marvin Rees, the Mayor of Bristol, says:
“This year Bristol marks the 650th anniversary of being granted county status by the then monarch, King Edward III.
“We can’t wait for this new edition of the world’s most famous board game to be released, helping celebrate our great city.”
The game will hit the shops this November in time for Christmas 2023. But before it goes to production the public is being invited to suggest Bristol landmarks and cards to feature in the game, by emailing: bristol650@winningmoves.co.uk Suggestions are invited from tomorrow until 23.59pm on 24th May 2023.
