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Is Hasbro trolling Millennials with its new Monopoly game sold by Walmart?

Written by Tom Ryan

Source: Hasbro

Hasbro has come out with a Millennial-themed Monopoly set in which players are rewarded with experiences rather than real estate. The game, which is currently exclusive to Walmart, has faced a backlash on social media for over-playing Millennial stereotypes and outright offending those in the generation.

The game’s front cover reads, “Forget real estate. You can’t afford it, anyway." The back states, “Adulting is hard. You deserve a break from the rat race!”

Players collect experiences by visiting “the hottest destinations … From your friend's couch to the vegan bistro to a week-long meditation retreat.” Other stops on the board include Farmer's Market, Thrift Shop, Parents' Basement, 3-Day Music Festival and Yoga Studio.

Players collect money when they land on “destinations” they’ve discovered first. The player "who collects the most Experience — not the most money — wins!"

The game’s mascot, Rich Uncle Pennybags, is shown on the cover with earbuds and sunglasses, carrying a coffee to-go cup, snapping a selfie and wearing a medal labeled "participation." Tokens depict emojis, a camera, bike, hashtag and sunglasses.

On social media, some found the game patronizing to Millennials that are often depicted as challenged to cover rent.

Among the negative Twitter responses:

  • “You trash on my age demographic because baby boomers caused an economic catastrophe that rendered us financially impotent for a decade? Thanks!”
  • “The rules are simple, you start with no money, you can’t afford anything, the board is on fire for some reason and everything is your fault.”
  • “Millennial Monopoly is the most condescending game ever created.”

Others saw humor in the game and say Millennials are too easily offended.

Hasbro defended the game in a statement: “We created Monopoly for Millennials to provide fans with a lighthearted game that allows Millennials to take a break from real life and laugh at the relatable experiences and labels that can sometimes be placed on them. With many of us being Millennials ourselves, we understand the seemingly endless struggles and silly generalizations that young Millennials can face (and we can’t even!).”

Walmart was out-of-stock on the game at last check online and third-party sellers have been selling it at significantly higher prices on eBay, Etsy and even walmart.com.

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