Monopoly has a hidden rule that is now going viral. Radio host Ryan realized that the official rulebook requires any unpurchased property to be auctioned to the highest bidder—and not left for the next roll. This rule speeds up the game. Read more in the article below.
How It Unfolded on Air
Ryan was playing with his son when he landed on Park Lane and chose not to buy it. Expecting his son to follow up on his decision, he instead heard an unexpected “I’m buying it!” from the boy. Confused, Ryan checked the rulebook—and discovered the long-overlooked rule. His co-host Cat Lynch admitted she was “blown away,” too. The emotional reaction turned into a humorous on-air moment—before going viral on TikTok, where it earned 1.3 million views.
The Official Auction Rule
Here’s the precise wording from Monopoly’s official rules: if a player declines to purchase an unowned property they land on, it must be auctioned by the banker to the highest bidder. This rule often slips under players’ radar, contributing to marathon sessions that last far longer than intended. Better-known factoids—like the game’s rumored record 70-day duration—illustrate how ignoring this rule can significantly drag out gameplay.
Reactions from Players and Experts
Unsurprisingly, the TikTok comment section filled fast. One user quipped,
“Bruh, that’s why it always took hooooours for us to finish.”
Another confessed,
“Wow, been playing it wrong my whole life.”
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On the other hand, seasoned Monopoly fans hailed the reminder. One commented,
“I’m a rules girl and am 100 percent a Monopoly girl. I love the Auction rule.”
Meanwhile, Monopoly strategy guides and fan pages—like the Monopoly Wiki—outline that auctions also apply in scenarios such as bankruptcy or when housing resources are limited.
Why This Rule Matters
Speeds Up the Game
The auction rule ensures properties don’t sit idle, eliminating downtime and creating constant bidding action. This can cut game time by as much as half, turning sessions that once dragged on into faster-paced showdowns .
Boosts Game Dynamics
Auctions add excitement and strategy—players must weigh immediate purchases against auction risks, balancing aggressive bidding with saving money for later rounds.
Levels the Field
If a player passes on a property, it doesn’t stay on the board. Auctions give all players a fair chance, keeping gameplay balanced and surprising until the end.
Getting the Rule Right
Check your version of Monopoly—some family or travel editions may omit or simplify auction rules.
- Agree before you play—review the auction rule with everyone, then decide whether to enforce it universally.
- Use auctions wisely—consider if bidding for a property is worth straining your cash flow later in the game.
Final Take
The newly celebrated auction rule is more than a clever hack—it’s a fundamental part of Monopoly design that revitalizes gameplay and shortens playtimes dramatically. Beau Ryan’s lighthearted moment of discovery touched a nerve with millions of board gamers, sparking renewed interest in this classic rule. Whether you’re a casual family gamer—or a self-proclaimed “Monopoly girl”—this reminder can make your next session more engaging, competitive, and far less drawn out.
