Best Pandemic Board Games of 2025

Jimmy Roof Avatar
Jimmy Roof
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Pandemic board games have become increasingly popular in recent years, as players seek to experience the thrill of battling a global outbreak from the comfort of their own homes. These games typically involve players working together to stop the spread of a deadly virus, using a combination of strategy and luck to save humanity from disaster. Some popular examples include Pandemic, which challenges players to work together to find a cure for four different diseases, and Pandemic Legacy, which introduces a narrative element to the gameplay and allows players to shape the course of the game over multiple sessions. With their cooperative gameplay and high stakes, Pandemic board games are a great choice for anyone who loves a good challenge.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Pandemic Board Game - Cooperative Strategy Game Cover #TOP 1
Pandemic Board Game - Cooperative Strategy Game
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pandemic Iberia Board Game Cover #TOP 2
Pandemic Iberia Board Game
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Z-Man Games Pandemic The Cure Expansion Cover #TOP 3
Z-Man Games Pandemic The Cure Expansion
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Pandemic Board Games

#TOP 1

Pandemic Board Game - Cooperative Strategy Game

ZM7101
Multi-colored
1. Standalone Game
Pandemic Board Game - Cooperative Strategy Game Cover
Pandemic Board Game (Base Game) - A Cooperative Battle to Save Humanity, Strategy Game for Kids and Adults, Ages 8+, 2-4 Players, 45 Minute Playtime, Made by Z-Man Games

The Pandemic Board Game is a cooperative strategy game where 2-4 players work together to eradicate diseases and save humanity. Players must use their unique character skills to plan their strategy and find a cure for each disease before it's too late. This easy-to-learn family and adult board game is perfect for anyone who loves problem-solving and can be played in an average of 45 minutes.

What We Like
Easy-to-learn cooperative game
Encourages teamwork and strategic planning
Great gift for adults and teens who love problem-solving
#TOP 2

Pandemic Iberia Board Game

IEL198
Various
Pandemic Iberia Board Game Cover
Pandemic: Iberia - Historic Disease-Fighting Board Game - Cooperative Strategy Game for Adults and Kids, Ages 8+, 2-5 Players, 45 Minute Playtime, Made by Z-Man Games

Pandemic Iberia is a strategy board game that takes place in mid-19th Century Iberian Peninsula where players must stop the spread of four diseases. Players take on one of seven roles such as the rural doctor or an agronomist as they travel throughout the peninsula researching each illness. The game is cooperative, meaning that players win or lose as a team. It is suitable for ages 8 and older and can be played with 2 to 5 players. The average playtime is 45 minutes.

What We Like
Historical drama theme
Easy to learn
Highly variable with two variants
Can be played by 2 to 5 players
Cooperative gameplay
#TOP 3

Z-Man Games Pandemic The Cure Expansion

ZM7151
Multi-color
Z-Man Games Pandemic The Cure Expansion Cover
Z-Man Games Pandemic The Cure Experimental Meds Board Game EXPANSION | Family Board Game | Cooperative Board Game | Ages 8+ | 2 to 5 players | Average Playtime 30 minutes | Made by Z-Man Games

The Z-Man Pandemic The Cure Expansion requires the base game to play. It emphasizes teamwork, urging players to leverage their characters' strengths to combat diseases before they spread uncontrollably. You will need to collaborate closely with your team to manage outbreaks and work towards finding cures. Additionally, a new purple disease introduces unique dice that can change the game dynamics, creating unexpected challenges and opportunities. Also, the Hot Zones Challenge adds another layer of strategy, offering various effects that can impact your team's efforts in different regions.

What We Like
Requires teamwork and strategy
New challenges with purple disease
Hot Zones add variety
Enhances cooperative gameplay
#TOP 4

Z-Man Games Pandemic Hot Zone North America Board Game

ZMG7141
Mixed Colours
1. Standalone Game
Z-Man Games Pandemic Hot Zone North America Board Game Cover
Pandemic Hot Zone: North America Board Game - Unite to Save The Continent! Cooperative Strategy Game for Kids and Adults, Ages 8+, 2-4 Players, 30 Minute Playtime, Made by Z-Man Games

Z-Man Pandemic Hot Zone is a cooperative board game that requires players to work together to eradicate deadly diseases threatening North America. Players must plan their strategy carefully and play to their characters' strengths to prevent outbreaks and find cures. This family and adult game is easy to learn and can be played with 2 to 4 players in an average playtime of 30 minutes. The game includes multiple expansions and stand-alone titles for those looking for new gameplay and adventures. Pros of the game include strategy, teamwork, and easy-to-learn gameplay.

What We Like
Strategy game
Cooperative teamwork
Easy-to-learn gameplay
#TOP 5

Pandemic World of Warcraft | Strategy Board Game

ZM7125
Various
One Size
Pandemic World of Warcraft | Strategy Board Game Cover
Pandemic World of Warcraft Wrath of The Lich King | Strategy Game | Cooperative Board Game for Adults and Teens | Ages14+ | 1-5 Players | Avg. Playtime 45-60 Minutes | Made by Z-Man Games

Pandemic World of Warcraft is a cooperative strategy board game suitable for ages 14 and older, with an average playtime of 45-60 minutes. Players take on the roles of legendary heroes, fight against the undead scourge, complete quests, and face the Lich King at Icecrown Citadel. The unique character abilities and dynamic card play make it a truly cooperative game where you win or lose together.

What We Like
Easy to learn and play
Large-sized board and striking miniatures
Dynamic card play helps players manage threats and complete quests
#TOP 6

CMYK Daybreak Board Game

CMYKDAYBREAK
One Size
CMYK Daybreak Board Game Cover
CMYK Daybreak - A Cooperative Game About Stopping Climate Change, from The Creator of Pandemic

CMYK Daybreak Game is a unique cooperative board game designed to tackle the pressing issue of climate change. Easy to learn in just 10 minutes, you and your friends can dive into gameplay that lasts between 60 to 90 minutes, making it perfect for game nights. With mechanics inspired by the creator of Pandemic, this game encourages teamwork and strategic planning as you work together to build an engine that combats climate challenges. Designed for 1-4 players, it offers an engaging experience that balances fun with an important message about sustainability.

What We Like
Cooperative gameplay
Quick to learn
Engaging climate theme
Strategic engine building
#TOP 7

Pandemic Rapid Response Board Game by Z-Man Games

ZMGZM011
Multicolor
1. Standalone Game
Pandemic Rapid Response Board Game by Z-Man Games Cover
Z-Man Games Pandemic Rapid Response Board Game | Family Board Game | Board Game for Adults and Family | Cooperative Board Game | Ages 8+ | 2 to 4 players | Average Playtime 20 minutes | Made by

Pandemic Rapid Response is a cooperative strategy board game made by Z-Man Games. In this game, players work together to deliver supplies to cities in need before time runs out. With unique character abilities and a specially equipped plane, you must coordinate and react quickly to new disasters. The game is not only about winning or losing, but also about teamwork and strategy. By adding Crisis Cards, you can increase the challenge and work around unexpected complications. With an average playtime of 20 minutes, Pandemic Rapid Response offers an exciting and fast-paced experience for players aged 8 and above.

What We Like
Cooperative gameplay
Unique character abilities
Fast-paced with short playtime
#TOP 8

Z-Man Games Pandemic: Contagion

ZM7116
Multicolor
1. Standalone Game
Z-Man Games Pandemic: Contagion Cover
Z-Man Games Pandemic: Contagion

Z-Man Pandemic: Contagion is an exciting standalone game designed for 2 to 5 players, making it perfect for small gatherings or family game nights. With a quick playtime of about 30 minutes, you can enjoy a fun gaming experience without a lengthy commitment. This game allows you to dive right into the action, providing a convenient way to engage with friends or family. Whether you’re new to gaming or a seasoned player, Pandemic: Contagion offers an accessible and enjoyable way to test your strategic thinking and teamwork skills.

What We Like
Standalone gameplay
2-5 players
Quick playtime
#TOP 9

Hermitshell Hard Case for Pandemic

Black
Hermitshell Hard Case for Pandemic Cover
Hermitshell Hard Travel Case for Pandemic Cooperative Board Game

The Hermitshell Pandemic Case is designed to keep your Pandemic Cooperative Board Game safe from any potential damage. With its durable construction, this hard travel case shields your game from bumps, dents, and scratches, ensuring it remains in excellent condition. The case is specifically made to fit the game perfectly, providing a snug and secure fit. Additionally, its compact size makes it easy to carry, so you can take your gaming adventures anywhere. Remember, the case is sold separately from the game and its accessories.

What We Like
Durable protection
Perfect fit for game
Easy to carry
Compact size
#TOP 10

Peaceable Kingdom Space Escape Game

GMC29
Multicolor
Medium
Peaceable Kingdom Space Escape Game Cover
Peaceable Kingdom Space Escape – Cooperative Strategy Space Adventure Game by The Inventor of Pandemic – Use Teamwork to Win! – Great for Families with Kids Ages 7 & up

In the Peaceable Kingdom Space Escape, you and your family will embark on a thrilling cooperative adventure. You must work together to help the Mole Rats collect their gear while avoiding a band of sneaky snakes. This game encourages effective communication and strategic thinking, making it a great way to bond with others. As you draw action cards, you’ll decide how to move the Mole Rats and the snakes, fostering teamwork and shared decision-making. With everyone’s cooperation, you can successfully reach the escape pod before time runs out!

What We Like
Encourages teamwork
Promotes strategic thinking
Fun for families
Develops communication skills
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many Pandemic board games are there?

There are 2 versions of this game, one in a red box and the other in blue. Components from each are identical. All the standard pieces from the base Pandemic in addition to the following: Legacy cards.

2. Is Pandemic a fun board game?

It could be fun to play right now! In the game, you will play CDC employees racing to stop a disease from spreading across the globe.

3. What type of board game is Pandemic?

Pandemic is a cooperative board game in which players work as a team to treat infections around the world while gathering resources for cures.

Editor's Notes

During our pandemic board game research, we found 24 pandemic board game products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 116,712 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pandemic board games list. We found that most customers choose pandemic board games with an average price of $27.37.

The pandemic board games are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pandemic board games, including Z-Man Games, CMYK, Hermitshell, Peaceable Kingdom. 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.