Best Board Games of 2025

Jimmy Roof Avatar
Jimmy Roof
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Board games have been a classic source of entertainment for generations. Whether it's a game of strategy like chess or a roll of the dice in Monopoly, board games offer a fun way to spend time with family and friends. From classic games like Scrabble and Clue to new favorites like Settlers of Catan and Codenames, there is a board game for every interest and age group. Board games can provide a break from technology and social media, allowing players to engage in face-to-face interaction and build social skills. With so many options available, board games remain a timeless source of fun and entertainment for all.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Monopoly Game for 2 to 6 Players Cover #TOP 1
Monopoly Game for 2 to 6 Players
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Ticket to Ride Board Game Cover #TOP 2
Ticket to Ride Board Game
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Hasbro Gaming Sorry! Game Cover #TOP 3
Hasbro Gaming Sorry! Game
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Board Games

Monopoly Game for 2 to 6 Players

C1009
Multi-color
Monopoly Game for 2 to 6 Players Cover
Monopoly Game, Family Board Games for 2 to 6 Players & Kids Ages 8 and Up, Includes 8 Tokens (Token Vote Edition)

Enjoy this fast-dealing property trading game where you buy, sell, dream, and scheme your way to riches. In this beloved family game, players compete to buy out neighborhoods, sell properties, charge rent, and grow an empire. Build houses and hotels to collect more rent money. This game includes 8 tokens: Top Hat, Rubber Ducky, Scotty, Hazel, Race Car, Penguin, Bat-tleship, and either Thimble or T-Rex. It is perfect for Family Game Night or anytime indoor fun, and it makes a great gift for families and kids ages 8 and up.

What We Like
Great quality components
Classic family game
Educational about finance
Fast delivery
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Some language issues noted

Ticket to Ride Board Game

DO7201
Multicolor
Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride Board Game Cover
Ticket to Ride Board Game - A Cross-Country Train Adventure for Friends and Family! Strategy Game for Kids & Adults, Ages 8+, 2-5 Players, 30-60 Minute Playtime, Made by Days of Wonder

Ticket to Ride Board Game is a fast-paced and strategic game that allows players to build their tracks across the United States. The board game is designed for 2 to 5 players aged 8 and up with an average playtime of 30-60 minutes. Players collect train cards to claim railway routes connecting cities throughout North America in multiple ways to earn points. Ticket to Ride is easy to learn with elegantly simple gameplay and can be played time and time again. The game can be played with Alexa using a compatible Echo device.

What We Like
Easy to learn
Fun for all ages
Engaging strategy
High replayability
Beautiful components
What We Don't Like
Limited player interaction
Luck can affect gameplay

Hasbro Gaming Sorry! Game

A5065
Multicolored
1 Pack
Hasbro Gaming Sorry! Game Cover
Hasbro Gaming Sorry! Game

The Sorry! Game from Hasbro Gaming is a classic board game that has been around for decades. It is a great way to bring the family together for a fun night of entertainment. The game is easy to learn and fun to play. It is also a great way to share a part of your childhood with your kids. The game is well priced and arrived in perfect condition. It is a great game for the whole family with just enough revenge features to make it fun.

What We Like
Family friendly gameplay
Easy rules for kids
Encourages social skills
Durable game components
Engaging for all ages
What We Don't Like
Some cards slightly mismatched

USAOPOLY TAPPLE® Word Game

TL097-000-002100-06
Blue
Pack of 1
USAOPOLY TAPPLE® Word Game Cover
USAOPOLY TAPPLE® Word Game | Fast-Paced Family Board Game | Choose a Category & Race Against The Timer to be The Last Player | Learning Game Great for All Ages (1 Pack)

USAOPOLY TAPPLE Word Game is an award-winning, fast-paced, and exciting word game that is perfect for family game night or any occasion. The game includes a Tapple wheel with a built-in timer, 36 cards with 144 categories, and rules. The game is designed for 2-8 players aged 8 and up, with a playtime of 15-20+ minutes. The game is easy to play; choose a card with a category, press the timer, and shout out words related to the category that start with a certain letter. Once the related word is announced, press the corresponding letter tab. The game is portable, and the Tapple wheel stores all of the category cards for easy carry and storage. With USAOPOLY TAPPLE Word Game, you can enjoy a fun and educational experience while increasing your vocabulary and quick-thinking skills.

What We Like
Fun for all ages
Easy to learn and play
Encourages quick thinking
Portable and easy to store
Great for family gatherings
What We Don't Like
Doesn't include batteries
Lightweight, slightly unstable

Hasbro Gaming Trouble Board Game for Kids Ages 5 and Up 2-4 Players (Packaging may vary)

A5064
Vary
Hasbro Gaming Trouble Board Game for Kids Ages 5 and Up 2-4 Players (Packaging may vary) Cover
Hasbro Gaming Trouble Board Game for Kids Ages 5 and Up 2-4 Players (Packaging may vary)

The Hasbro Gaming Trouble Board Game is a great choice for family game night. It is a fun game for ages 5 and up and can be played with 2, 3, or 4 players. The iconic Pop-o-matic die roller bubble keeps the die from getting lost and adds to the fun. The game is well made and the popper helps with 'rolling' the die. The only negative is that the design is cardboard and not plastic or something more durable. Overall, this is a great board game for the price and highly recommended.

What We Like
Fun for all ages
Encourages learning and counting
Sturdy game board and bubble
Fast shipping and accurate description
Brings back childhood memories
What We Don't Like
Flimsy outer packaging
Possible wear and tear

What if...? Board Game by Roast & Toast Games

Roast & Toast Games
49616
What if...? Board Game by Roast & Toast Games Cover
What if…? Choose The Life of Your Dreams | Family Board Game | Board Game for Kids and Parents | Adventure Board Game | Ages 8+ | for 2 to 4 Players | Average Playtime 30-60 Minutes

What if...? Game by Roast & Toast offers a fun life simulation experience where you can explore various roles like an adventurer or entrepreneur. You'll enjoy making choices such as buying a house or adopting pets, which adds excitement to your gameplay. The vibrant art and design keep you engaged, allowing you to appreciate beautiful illustrations while playing. With easy-to-understand rules, this game is perfect for kids, making it simple for everyone to join in. Plus, the Advanced Mode introduces new choices for even more thrilling gameplay!

What We Like
Easy to learn and teach
Great for family fun
High-quality components
Collaborative gameplay experience
Appealing art style
What We Don't Like
Instructions can be unclear
Final battle feels too easy

Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Kingdom Of Sweet Adventures Board Game For Kids, Christmas Gifts for Boys & Girls, 3+ (Amazon Exclusive)

4700 S5
Multicolor
Original version
Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Kingdom Of Sweet Adventures Board Game For Kids, Christmas Gifts for Boys & Girls, 3+ (Amazon Exclusive) Cover
Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Kingdom Of Sweet Adventures Board Game For Kids, Christmas Gifts for Boys & Girls, 3+ (Amazon Exclusive)

The Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Kingdom Of Sweet Adventures Board Game For Kids Ages 3 & Up (Amazon Exclusive), Red is a classic board game that has been enjoyed by generations of children. It features a race to the castle, with players encountering all kinds of "delicious" surprises as they move their cute gingerbread man pawn around the path. The game is designed to be easy to play, with no reading required, and features colorful cards, sweet destinations, and fun illustrations that kids love. Reviews of the game are overwhelmingly positive, with parents and kids alike enjoying the game and its ability to teach kids to follow rules and directions.

What We Like
Fun for young children
Teaches patience and turn-taking
Vibrant colors and design
Nostalgic for adults
Easy to learn and play
What We Don't Like
Cards may get damaged quickly
#TOP 8

HUES and CUES | Color Guessing Game

USOPA135725
Multicolor
HUES and CUES | Color Guessing Game Cover
HUES and CUES - Vibrant Color Guessing Board Game for 3-10 Players Ages 8+, Connect Clues and Guess from 480 Color Squares

HUES and CUES is a vibrant group party game of colorful communication where players are challenged to make connections to colors with words. Players try to get others to guess a specific hue from the 480 colors squares on the unique game board, with the winner being the player with the most points on the outside grayscale scoring track after 1 or 2 rounds. With 3-10 players, ages 8+, and a 30+ minute play time, this award-winning board game is perfect for family game night.

What We Like
Fun for large groups
Easy to learn and play
Encourages creativity
Great for all ages
Stimulates conversation
What We Don't Like
Colors may not match precisely
Not ideal for travel

Winning Moves Games Guess Who? Board Game

1191
Multicolor
Winning Moves Games Guess Who? Board Game Cover
Guess Who? Board Game with Classic Characters by Winning Moves Games USA, Classic Children's Mystery Board Game of Deduction for 2 Players, Ages 6+ (1191)

Winning Moves Games Guess Who? Board Game is a classic mystery game for two players. It includes two plastic game units, 48 small face cards, and a deck of 24 mystery face cards. The game is made of plastic and is suitable for ages 5 and up. Pros include the ability to print off new characters online, fast-paced gameplay, and nostalgic memories. Cons include a lack of racial diversity and gender representation, and cheaply made plastic pieces.

What We Like
Teaches deductive reasoning
Colorful and engaging design
Good value for money
Encourages communication skills
Fun for ages 8 and up
What We Don't Like
Cards may be delicate
Packaging issues reported

Pressman Mancala - Real Wood Folding Set

4426-06
Multicolor
1 pack
Pressman Mancala - Real Wood Folding Set Cover
Pressman Mancala - Real Wood Folding Set, with Multicolor Stones by Pressman, 2 players

Enjoy the ancient game of Mancala with Pressman's real wood folding set, featuring multicolor stones. This game of counting and strategy is perfect for reinforcing STEM and STEAM skills and is suitable for 2 players aged 6 and up. The hinged wooden board folds for easy storage, making it a great choice for both home and travel. Safety and quality have been tested to ensure a worry-free playtime.

What We Like
Fun and engaging gameplay
Compact and travel-friendly design
High-quality materials
Timeless classic for all ages
Encourages strategy and bonding
What We Don't Like
Missing beads in some orders
Buying Guide Image

Sorting Out the Board Games to Bring Fun to Life

Introduction

Board games are a timeless form of entertainment that can provide hours of fun for individuals and groups alike. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to try to choose the right board game for a given situation. In this article, we will discuss some factors to consider when selecting a board game and offer some suggestions to help you make the best choice.

Consider the players

One of the first things to consider when choosing a board game is the players. Who will be playing the game, and what are their interests and skill levels? A game that is too difficult or complex for some players can lead to frustration and a lack of enjoyment, while a game that is too easy can be boring for more advanced players. It's important to choose a game that is challenging but still accessible to all players.

Another factor to consider is the number of players. Some board games are designed for a specific number of players, while others can accommodate a range of player counts. For example, a game like Monopoly is best played with a large group, while a game like Scrabble is better suited to smaller groups.

Consider the length of play

Another factor to consider when choosing a board game is the length of play. Some games can be completed in just a few minutes, while others can take hours to finish. It's important to choose a game that will fit within the time frame you have available. If you only have a short amount of time, a quick game like Spot It or Munchkin might be the best choice. On the other hand, if you have a longer period of time available, a more complex game like Catan or Pandemic might be more engaging.

Consider the theme and mechanics

The theme and mechanics of a board game can also be important factors to consider when choosing a game. Some games have a specific theme, such as space exploration, fantasy, or historical events, that can appeal to certain players. Other games have mechanics, such as rolling dice, drawing cards, or moving tokens, that can make the game more engaging and interactive.

In addition to considering the theme and mechanics of a game, it's also important to think about the type of experience you want to have. Do you want a fast-paced game with lots of excitement, or a more strategic game that requires careful planning? Do you want a cooperative game where players work together to achieve a common goal, or a competitive game where players compete against each other to win?

Some suggestions

With these factors in mind, here are some suggestions for board games that might be a good fit for different situations:

  • For a quick and easy game that can be played with a large group, try Bananagrams or Apples to Apples.
  • For a longer and more complex game that can be played with a smaller group, try Catan or Pandemic.
  • For a cooperative game that can be played with a large group, try Forbidden Island or The Resistance.
  • For a competitive game that can be played with a smaller group, try Chess or Go.

Conclusion

Choosing the right board game can be a daunting task, but by considering the players, the length of play, and the theme and mechanics of the game, you can find a game that will provide hours of entertainment and enjoyment. With so many options available, there is a board game out there for everyone, no matter their interests or skill level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are board games for adults?

Board games are not just for kids; there are many board games designed specifically for adults. These adult-oriented games are often fun and competitive, and they can be played with as few as two players. While family-friendly games may cater to larger groups, there are plenty of board games that offer engaging and enjoyable experiences for adults.

2. What are traditional board games?

Traditional board games include popular classics like chess, checkers, backgammon, Monopoly, and Scrabble. These games have stood the test of time and continue to be loved by players of all ages. Whether you enjoy strategic thinking or card games, you are likely to find a traditional board game that suits your taste and provides hours of entertainment.

3. What is a modern board game?

Modern board games are designed to offer engaging experiences for all players until the game ends. They often provide various paths to victory and may include cooperative gameplay, where players work together against the game itself. These modern board games emphasize strategic thinking, creativity, and immersive gameplay, catering to different preferences and offering a wide range of experiences for players of all ages.

Editor's Notes

During our board game research, we found 24 board game products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 685,737 customer reviews through our big data system to write the board games list. We found that most customers choose board games with an average price of $17.51.

The board games are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of board games, including Monopoly, Days of Wonder, Hasbro Gaming, USAOPOLY, Hasbro. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jimmy Roof Avatar

Jimmy Roof is a toy designer who lives in Chicago with his family. He works in a big toy firm, so he is surrounded by toys every day. Throughout his career, he has developed expertise in children's toys, baby products and preschool education. Jimmy Roof often publishes articles related to toys on key websites.

Board Games Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Monopoly Days of Wonder Hasbro Gaming USAOPOLY Hasbro Roast & Toast Games Hasbro Gaming USAOPOLY Winning Moves Pressman
Item Weight 1.96 pounds 2.95 pounds 1 pounds 7.2 ounces 11.2 ounces 2 pounds 1.12 pounds 2.68 pounds 1.3 pounds 1.4 pounds
Manufacturer recommended age 8 years and up 8 years and up 6 years and up 8 years and up 5 - 15 years 3 years and up 36 months - 6 years 8 years and up 6 years and up 6 years and up
Release date July 31, 2022 May 1, 2007 October 16, 2017 June 22, 2022 March 1, 2018 - - August 28, 2020 January 15, 2015 January 1, 2011
Language English English English English - English English English English -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
Where to Buy