Indianapolis residents will soon be able to see their hometown reflected on the classic board game Monopoly. Beginning in 2027, Hasbro will release an official Indianapolis edition, joining dozens of cities worldwide that have customized the game to showcase local flavor.
Community input is the cornerstone
Hasbro’s regional partner, Tops Trumps USA Inc., is asking Hoosiers to nominate the places that best represent the city’s character. “We are looking for your mom‑and‑pop shops, nonprofits, sports teams, museums, restaurants and landmarks,” said Lindsay Wallace, a sales executive with the company, during an interview on FOX 59.
Wallace explained that the nomination process is open to anyone who wants to see a piece of Indianapolis history or a beloved local business on the board. Participants can submit suggestions online, and a selection committee will review the entries to create a balanced mix of historic sites, cultural institutions and everyday gathering spots.
Why a local Monopoly matters
City‑specific Monopoly boards have become a popular way for communities to celebrate their unique identity while giving local businesses a modest boost in visibility. When a shop or museum appears on a game square, it often draws curiosity from players who may not have visited the location before, turning a simple pastime into a subtle tourism tool.
For many small‑business owners, the chance to be featured is more than a novelty; it can translate into new customers and a sense of pride. “Being on the board would give us another way to introduce our name to people who may not know about us,” said a local bakery owner who asked to remain anonymous until the board is finalized.
Custom community “chess” cards
In addition to the standard property squares, Hasbro will allow participating businesses to create custom community‑chest‑style cards. These cards can highlight special promotions, charitable events or unique aspects of the organization, giving players a glimpse into the city’s vibrant civic life.
The initiative aligns with Indianapolis’s broader effort to promote local entrepreneurship and community engagement. City officials have previously supported campaigns that encourage residents to shop locally and celebrate the city’s cultural assets.
What to expect when the board launches
The final Indianapolis Monopoly board is expected to feature a mix of well‑known landmarks—such as the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indiana State Capitol—and lesser‑known gems like neighborhood coffee houses, family‑run diners and community centers.
Hasbro plans to distribute the game through national retailers and local specialty shops, ensuring that both Hoosiers and Monopoly enthusiasts across the country can experience the city’s spirit one square at a time.
How to submit your nominations
Residents can submit their suggestions through the official Indianapolis Monopoly website, which will remain open for entries through the end of the month. The site provides guidelines on the types of locations eligible for consideration and offers a brief questionnaire to capture each nominee’s significance to the community.
Wallace encouraged everyone to take part, noting that the board will reflect the collective voice of Indianapolis. “This is a chance for Hoosiers to shape how the world sees our city,” she said. “We look forward to seeing the places that matter most to you on the board.”
Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.