Cash Not Accepted Mr. Moneybags

I always enjoyed playing Monopoly for about the first hour or until someone got both Boardwalk and Park Place loaded down with hotels. There were a lot of little pet peeves about playing that game with others - most of them had to do with cheating though.

Anyway, it looks like Monopoly is updating their payment methods which may make it more difficult to cheat. Now you can buy property using plastic instead of colorful cash. You no longer have worry about hiding your money under the board to keep your competition from sneaking a few orange $500 bills over to their pile. Plus, you don't have to keep your eye on the banker to make sure he isn't taking a little extra for his own pocket.

Obviously, my "Dave Ramsey" way of handling money causes me to roll my eyes at the fact that VISA, has once again figured out how to get their name in front of so many kids. But at the same time, I have to admit - that's smart. If only kids would learn that VISA debit is ok and VISA credit is bad.

Where will Monopoly go next? Checks? That way a player could land on a property and write a post dated check for the next three rolls in hopes they make it around to "Go" before the bank dings their account.

So, how will kids cheat in Monopoly without the cash? Here are a few ideas.

• Banker adds a $10 bank fee every time you pass "Go."
• Banker charges a $100 overdraft fee if they attempt to buy property but have insufficient funds.
• Players could contest charges on their cards by claiming the player to the right is responsible for identity theft. VISA does not hold you liable for those charges. (If caught steeling someone's card, you must go directly to jail and not pass go.)
  

One other thought. Some people play where taxes and fines go to the Free Parking pot. It just won't be the same without that huge pile of cash building up in the middle of the board. Or, were we the only ones that played that way? Oh well, good luck on this year's beauty pageant Mr. Moneybags - I hope you get first this time!