Just in time for Christmas, the Houses of Hasbro and HBO have joined armies to unleash Game of Thrones Monopoly. (Or MONOPOLY: GAME OF THRONES as the press release insists on shouting it.)
It's hard to make out the details from the images we've seen. Old Kent Road is replaced with Hardhome, an abandoned, wind-swept settlement on the wrong side of the Wall. At the other end of the scale, Mayfair has been swapped for King's Landing, a noted den of greed and vice where only the rich are welcome. We have no comment.
Gone are the dog, battleship and iron; players use house sigils to mark their progress. Instead of arguing about who gets to be the sodding hat, you can now refuse to handle the Greyjoy squid. Property pieces are shaped like castles, while the cash resembles silver and gold coins. All very eye-catching.
In a new twist, the "Iron Throne card holder... plays the iconic theme song throughout gameplay". It's a neat feature that will displace our cousin — who insists on singing Abba every time someone lands on the Chance square — as the most annoying feature of Monopoly.
Imagine yourself in the bulging leathers of Jon Snow as you acquire the title deeds to a row of strategically located properties. Step into the shoes of Daenerys Targaryen and demand double rent on your unimproved lots, pursuant of the rules about complete colour groups. A Lannister always pays his debts.
The spell is broken somewhat by the Free Parking space, which retains the familiar 1930s motor car from the original game. Keep your eyes peeled for a Ford Roadster in the final series of Game of Thrones.
Monopoly: Game of Thrones is out now from HBO and Hasbro.
