| | | | | | |

Electronic Mall Madness (1989) Board Game

ByMichail

Electronic Mall Madness is a board game that was first released in in 1989. It was designed by Michael Gray and published by various companies such as Hasbro, MB Giochi, MB Jeux, and MB Juegos. The game is categorized as a children’s game and falls under the economic and electronic genres. With a runtime of about 60 minutes, the game is suitable for players aged 9 and above.

Game Components of Electronic Mall Madness

  • Game Board: Represents a two-story shopping mall
  • Electronic Computer: Dictates gameplay with voice announcements
  • Instruction Manual**
  • Plastic Wall Pieces: Six pieces
  • Rubber Pads: Four pads to prevent wall pieces from slipping
  • Shopping Lists: Four cardboard lists
  • Sale and Clearance Signs**
  • Plastic Pawns: Eight pawns (two for each color, male and female)
  • Plastic Pegs: Forty pegs to mark shopping lists
  • Paper Money: Color-coded bills
  • Credit Cards: Four cardboard cards with names like *Fast Cash*, *Quick Draw*, *MEGAmoney*, and *Easy Money*
  • Other: Stairs, elevator, and ATM features

    How To Setup Electronic Mall Madness

    To set up the game, players first assemble the mall board using the plastic wall pieces and rubber pads. Each player selects a pawn and receives $150 (or $200 in later versions) in the form of paper money and a credit card. The electronic computer is placed on the board, and the shopping lists are distributed. Players place their pawns at the starting point, usually the parking lot.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective: Be the first player to purchase six items on the shopping list and return to the parking lot or final destination.
  • Gameplay Mechanics:
    – Players take turns pressing the computer’s gameplay button to move a random number of spaces.
    – Movement is horizontal or vertical, not diagonal.
    – Players must enter stores through the doors.
    – The electronic voice announces sales and clearances at various stores.
    – Players use credit cards to make purchases and pay the banker in cash.
    – Each store can only be visited once per player.

    Player Experience

    Electronic Mall Madness offers a fun and interactive shopping experience. The game is easy to set up and play, with the electronic computer adding a lively element through its voice announcements. Players enjoy the excitement of racing to complete their shopping lists, taking advantage of sales and clearances to save money.

    Pros

  • Interactive and Engaging: The talking computer adds a unique and engaging element.
  • Simple to Understand: Easy gameplay mechanics make it accessible to a younger audience.
  • Replay Value: Different shopping lists and random movements ensure each game is unique.
  • Themed Variations: Special editions like Hannah Montana and Littlest Pet Shop cater to different interests.

    Cons

  • Components Issues: Some players have reported issues with missing or damaged pieces, especially in older or used versions.
  • Battery Corrosion: The electronic component can be prone to battery corrosion, affecting gameplay.
  • Assembly Required: Setting up the board can be a bit tedious.

    Personal Thoughts on Electronic Mall Madness

    Electronic Mall Madness is perfect for families and younger players who enjoy racing and shopping themes. It teaches basic financial concepts, like managing money and making purchases, in a fun and interactive way. With its various themed editions, it can appeal to a wide range of interests. However, it’s important to ensure all components are in good condition to fully enjoy the game.

    We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. 

    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *