With
a family like mine, there are two passions that come naturally: watching TV and playing games. We’re
just that kind of family—snuggling up for a good show or laughing our heads off
in a wild board game competition.
It
got me thinking---why settle for one or the other? You don’t have to. There are
many fun and exciting board games that you can play with family and friends, based
on your favorite TV shows. If you only
play games on electronic devices, be sure check out ProfessorBeej’s article “Best Board Game Adaptations for iPad.” For classic board game lovers like myself, here
are four of our favorite games that continue to entertain the wide variety of
tastes in our household.
This has always been one of my favorites, because it’s a monopoly on financial steroids. Why count out $10, $50 and $100 bills when you can deal in millions? The copy I own was published in 1989, but the new version is based on "The Apprentice" TV show. Now you can bid against your fellow players on islands, office buildings, residences and if they get in the way, you can terminate them. Just use those famous two words “You’re fired!” and keep your competitive edge. The game is for 3-4 players, but it’s more fun with four. Average playing time is 90-minutes and it’s suitable for players age 12 and up. WARNING: It’s highly addictive and competitive, so warn grandma before you take her to the cleaners.
I don’t know about you, but my friends and I are obsessed with this reality TV show. The exciting series from the Discovery Channel is also a board game, where you can be the captain of any of your favorite ships. Take the helm of the Wizard, Cornelia Marie, Northwestern or Time Bandit. The goal: collect the most Alaskan king crab while staying afloat in the Bering Sea. The game is made for two players, but it's more fun to play on teams. It's best for ages 10 and up; this game recreates the tension and adventure you loved in the show!
Other
Options
Not up to
trying something new? There are many traditional games that use a popular TV
show twist. Take Monopoly for instance: an old time favorite with
multiple offshoots. All of these versions include collectible pewter tokens.
•
Seinfeld
Edition—traditional places for purchase are replaced with locations from
the show, including Jerry’s apartment.
•
The
Muppets Collector’s Edition—buy and sell Kermit the Frog’s
Swamp or Miss Piggy’s Dressing Room.
•
Star
Trek Continuum Edition—locations include Starfleet
Command and the United Federations of Planets Headquarters.
Move
