The Money Game

The Money Game, released by Sofel for the Famicom in 1988, simulates stock market trading and financial growth. Players start with 1,000,000 yen and must invest wisely to upgrade their living conditions, from a small apartment to a mansion with a pool. The game features a virtual newspaper, telephone, and computer, requiring Japanese literacy. Managing interest rates, currency exchange, and personal relationships—like buying a car and dating—affects gameplay. Success leads to marriage and children, while failure results in a "game over" for poor investment decisions. It inspired a sequel, Wall Street Kid, but no other standalone stock market games followed.