Monopoly, Catan and learning through play: how board games can teach us starkly different economic models
Monopoly, Catan and learning through play: how board games can teach us starkly different economic models
Monopoly, Catan and learning through play: how board games can teach us starkly different economic models
Xavier Rubio-Campillo
August, 12, 2025
Summary
In the 21st century, while digital entertainment has surged, board games have made a strong comeback, especially modern "Eurogames" like Catan. These games differ from classics like Monopoly by emphasizing strategy over luck, eliminating player elimination, and minimizing chance. Rooted in European design, Eurogames promote critical thinking and simulate real-world systems like supply and demand. Games such as Monopoly and Catan reflect the social and economic values of their eras. While games offer valuable learning experiences through play, their real-world impact depends on our ability to critically analyze and apply their lessons beyond the board.
Reference
Rubio-Campillo, X. (2025, August 12). Monopoly, Catan and learning through play: How board games can teach us starkly different economic models. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/monopoly-catan-and-learning-through-play-how-board-games-can-teach-us-starkly-different-economic-models-262998