In April, Scopely Launched an Immersive Monopoly Game

In April, Scopely released Monopoly GO!, a mobile game that combines classic Monopoly gameplay with new worlds to explore. The game quickly climbed to the top of the charts, establishing itself as the most popular casual game launch of 2023. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Massimo Maietti, the game’s general manager and vice president of product at Scopely, to discuss the enduring allure of the Monopoly franchise, the team’s efforts to capture the emotions of the original board game, and the game’s focus on community.

Tell us about your role at Scopely

Maietti explains that he serves as the VP of product and general manager for Monopoly GO! at Scopely. He has been in the gaming industry for over two decades, with the last seven years spent at Scopely. His primary goal at Scopely has been to create a game that remains popular and relevant for years to come. Apart from Monopoly GO!, Scopely has also developed other successful games, such as Star Trek Fleet Command, Stumble Guys, and Marvel Strike Force.

Did you play Monopoly growing up?

Maietti recalls playing Monopoly often during his childhood and being fascinated by the game’s ability to create lasting memories. He notes that playing with friends was relatively peaceful, while playing with family members was more emotionally charged. He believes that the presence of family members intensifies the emotions during gameplay.

What is your favorite Monopoly piece?

Maietti explains that during the development of Monopoly GO!, the team was inspired by the beloved tokens from the original game. These characters were considered crucial to blending classic Monopoly gameplay with new experiences. Each token has its own narrative and humor, adding depth to the game. Although Maietti doesn’t have a personal favorite, he mentions that the Iron token is the most stable and likely to remain upright during intense moments.

What makes Monopoly such an enduring game?

According to Maietti, Monopoly’s enduring appeal lies in its universal themes. He points out that the game introduces the concept of wealth and negotiation within relationships to many players. The game often evokes vivid memories of paying rent to a parent or bankrupting a family member. Monopoly also offers a guilt-free opportunity to explore wealth and power, providing a sense of control over others. Additionally, the anticipation of becoming the first monopolist and reaping the rewards adds excitement to the game. Its accessibility, driven largely by luck, ensures that players of all skill levels can enjoy the experience.

What was the goal with Monopoly GO!?

Maietti explains that the goal of Monopoly GO! was to create a mobile gaming experience that would engage players for an extended period. The game features a complete Monopoly universe, combining classic imagery with new characters and worlds to explore. It offers a highly social experience, allowing players to compete and interact with friends and family globally. While staying true to the mechanics of the original board game, the team also focused on capturing the emotions and ups and downs of playing Monopoly. The mobile platform enabled the creation of a richer narrative and an immersive experience that highlights the humor and essence of the Monopoly brand.

How did you tailor the game for the mobile platform?

The team aimed to make Monopoly GO! as accessible as possible. The game can be played at any time and anywhere, requiring only one hand and accommodating play sessions ranging from two minutes to two hours. The focus was on eliminating wait times for players and optimizing the movement and camera controls to enhance the seamless experience. The roll mechanics were also carefully designed to feel natural and intuitive. The attention to detail in every aspect contributed to the fully immersive experience that has resonated with players.

What are you most proud of in Monopoly GO!?

Maietti emphasizes the game’s emphasis on community and social interaction. He mentions that one of the team’s proudest achievements is the integration of social elements into the core gameplay loop. Players can see their friends’ faces on the board, interact with them, and create rivalries. Community involvement is encouraged through the Facebook trading group for collectible stickers, which has connected Monopoly fans worldwide. The game’s success attributes to these communal features, and Maietti believes that there is potential for even further development and expansion in the future.