Magie initially created 'The Landlord's Game' to demonstrate the principles of Georgism, a land tax system advocated by Henry George. The game had two sets of rules: one where everyone benefited from wealth creation (Prosperity set), and another where monopolies crushed opponents (Monopoly set). This was meant to teach players the dangers of concentrated land ownership.

Magie filed a patent application for 'The Landlord's Game' to protect her intellectual property and ensure that her message about economic inequality was preserved in its design.

Magie was granted U.S. Patent No. 748,626 for 'The Landlord's Game,' officially recognizing her invention and giving her legal rights to the game's design.

The game circulated among academic and progressive circles, particularly among Quakers and college students, who appreciated its educational value and its potential to spark discussions about economic reform.

The Adgame Company published a version of 'The Landlord's Game,' marking the first official commercial release of Magie's invention, albeit with limited distribution and impact.