Art is at its best when it presents questions. If our games declare random winners, or can be played perfectly to a predictable conclusion, they have stated a d

Art is at its best when it presents questions. If our games declare random winners, or can be played perfectly to a predictable conclusion, they have stated a definite answer about strategy, and lack room for further investigation, which is distasteful to enthusiasts. That said, games also say something about the societies that play them. Monopoly's popularity in spite of its unfairness speaks to that. Playing it, and winning, reinforces a certain fantasy about becoming a property owner. The casual player believes: "This is how life works."