Millennial Monopoly

One of the most talked about items last Christmas was the Millennial Nativity.  There was an attempt to not offend that generation by marketing it as the “Hipster Nativity” but there were too many cues referencing Millennial culture.  In case you missed it, Mary was holding a Starbucks cup and Joseph was taking a selfie on his iPhone.  The Magi were riding Segways and came bearing gifts packaged in Amazon boxes. 

Now, just in time for this Christmas Hasbro has released "Monopoly for Millennials."  The cover encourages players to take a break from the rat race because "adulting is hard."   Instead of collecting as much cash as possible, players are challenged to rack up the most Experiences to win. Players travel around the game board discovering and visiting cool places to eat, shop, and relax. They interact with other players via Chance and Community Chest cards, (which are super relatable).   There is no Boardwalk or Park Place in this game.  It says on the front of the box, "Forget real estate. You can't afford to buy it anyway."

I’ve been reading the online comments regarding this game that are coming from Millennials.  They are more than a little bit offended.  I cannot image many of them investing in the game.  To be honest, I cannot blame them.  Millennials have perhaps become the most decried and lampooned generation ever.  There are countless videos on Youtube that mock Millennials and their culture.  Perhaps, it is time to say, “Enough is enough.”

Has they have aged; Millennials have kind of blended in.  Many have married, started families and purchased homes.  Some of them have even found their way back to church, although most still prefer non-denominational mega churches to mainline congregations.  While they still can seem a little self-absorbed, as I look around I see the same characteristic in some of my peers. 

Monopoly for Millennials; let’s stop playing games and embrace them for who they are.  Learn to know them, love them and pass the torch to them.