Money Game, The (Japan)

The Money Game on the NES is a turn-based real estate and financial simulation game, exclusively released in Japan. This game shares many similarities with board games like Monopoly but possesses its own distinct style and depth.

The primary objective for players in The Money Game is to accumulate wealth, earning profit through buying and selling land, constructing various buildings, and investing in the stock market, with the aim of bankrupting opponents or becoming the wealthiest player when time runs out.

Gameplay unfolds on a grid-based map, where players move by rolling dice. Each square of land can be purchased. When an opponent lands on your property, they must pay rent. Players can construct different types of buildings on their land, ranging from houses and shops to skyscrapers, to increase property value and rental income.

Beyond real estate, the game also features a stock market system, allowing players to buy and sell shares of various companies. Stock prices fluctuate turn by turn, creating opportunities for significant gains or losses. Players can also take out bank loans to expand their investments, but must contend with interest rates and the risk of bankruptcy if financial management is poor.

The game typically has a turn or time limit. Players need to make strategic decisions regarding buying, selling, building, and investing to maximize profits and weaken their opponents. The game's interface is simple yet effective, with easy-to-navigate menus for managing assets, checking opponent status, and performing transactions. This is a game that demands strategic thinking and financial management skills.