10 Best Board Games
In the ever-evolving world of tabletop gaming, 2025 has brought forth an exciting array of board games that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a strategy enthusiast, a casual player, or someone who enjoys cooperative gameplay, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best board games of 2025, highlighting their unique features and what makes them stand out.
- GAME OF SWEET REVENGE: Enjoy classic Sorry! gameplay with this Sorry! board game for kids. It's an edge-of-your-seat race to home, so hurry up and get there first
- FIRST ONE HOME WINS: Who will be the first player to get all 3 of their pawns to the home space? But watch out! Players can get "sweet revenge" by sending each other's pawns back to the starting point
- SO MANY POSSIBILITIES: Slide, collide, and score to win the Sorry! game. This family game for kids and adults features so many possibilities depending on the card picked up and strategy chosen
- CLASSIC SORRY! GAMEPLAY: Remember playing the original Sorry! game as a kid? Bring back memories of playing the Sorry! game with family members and introduce it to a new generation
- FAMILY GAME NIGHT FAVORITE: A go-to game for family time or anytime indoor fun, the Sorry! game for kids is one of the best family games for game night
- CLASSIC BEGINNER GAME: Do you remember playing Candy Land when you were a kid. Introduce new generations to this sweet kids' board game
- RACE TO THE CASTLE: Players encounter all kinds of "delicious" surprises as they move their cute gingerbread man pawn around the path in a race to the castle
- NO READING REQUIRED TO PLAY: For kids ages 3 and up, Candy Land can be a great game for kids who haven't learned how to read yet
- GREAT GAME FOR LITTLE ONES: The Candy Land board game features colored cards, sweet destinations, and fun illustrations that kids love
- FUN FAMILY GAME FOR KIDS: Remember playing the original Trouble board game as a kid? Introduce a new generation to classic Trouble gameplay with this Trouble game for kids
- EASY TO LEARN AND SET UP: The Trouble game is easy to play and quick set up. The object of the game is simple: the first player to get all of their game pieces around the board wins
- POWER UP SPACES: The game instructions include options for classic Trouble gameplay or a version with Power Up Spaces for a more challenging game
- POP-O-MATIC BUBBLE: In this beloved children's board game, players press and pop the plastic bubble to roll the die. The iconic Pop-o-Matic die roller is fun to press, and it keeps the die from getting lost
- BOARD GAMES FOR FAMILY: Adults and kids can play this family board game together. It's a fun indoor game for playdates and a great choice for Family Game Night
- UNO is the classic family card game that's easy to learn and so much fun to play!
- In a race to deplete your hand, match one of your cards with the current card shown on top of the deck by either color or number.
- Strategize to defeat your competition with special action cards like Skips, Reverses, Draw Twos and color-changing Wild cards.
- When you're down to one card, don't forget to shout 'UNO!'
- This fun family card game is perfect for adults, teens and kids 7 years old and up.
- FAST-DEALING PROPERTY TRADING GAME: It’s a Family Game Night staple! Players buy, sell, dream, and scheme their way to riches with the Monopoly board game
- BUY, SELL, AND TRADE TO WIN: Players compete to buy out neighborhoods, sell properties, charge rent, and grow an empire in the Monopoly game for adults and kids ages 8 and up
- BUILD HOUSES AND HOTELS: Love that feeling when an opponent lands on an owned property? In this be-loved family board game, the more players build, the more rent money they can collect. Cha-ching!
- WHAT’S YOUR TOKEN?: Includes 8 tokens: the Top Hat, Rubber Ducky, Scotty, Hazel, Race Car, Penguin, Battleship and either the Thimble
- FAMILY GAME NIGHT FAVORITE: With its classic Monopoly gameplay, this Monopoly board game is a go-to game for Family Game Night or anytime indoor fun, and it makes a great gift for families and kids
- THE ORIGINAL WOOD BLOCK GAME: Dare to risk it? Pull out a block, place it on top, but don't let the tower fall! The Jenga game for kids and adults is the wooden block balancing game loved for generations
- FAST, EXCITING, ANYTIME FUN: With a simple set up, easy-to-learn rules, and just the right amount of challenge, the Jenga game is a great game for impromptu fun with family and friends
- GREAT KIDS PARTY GAMES: Suspense, surprises, laughs! Liven up a party by taking along this portable game. This wooden blocks stacking game is great for Family Game Night, icebreakers, and kids birthday parties
- GENUINE HARDWOOD BLOCKS: The classic Jenga board game includes 54 precision crafted wooden blocks. The easy-to-use stacking sleeve can help players build the tower
- GAME FOR 1 OR MORE PLAYERS: No friends around? No problem. Play solo! Practice stacking skills, building the tower, and trying not to let it come tumbling down
- The Original and Authentic Version of the Sensational Party Game
- Get ready for the award-winning fast-paced word game that gives family game night a rush of excitement as players compete to beat the timer!
- HOW 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.
- Take it on the go and great to play anywhere - the portable Tapple wheel stores all of the category cards for easy carry and storage.
- Includes 1 Tapple wheel with built-in timer, 36 cards (144 categories), rules
- CLASSIC CROSSWORD GAME: Get family and friends together for a fun game night with the Scrabble board game! Put letters together, build words, and earn the most points to win
- WOODEN TILES AND RACKS: This edition of the Scrabble game features 100 wooden letter tiles and wooden tile racks. The textured gameboard helps tiles stay on the board
- RACK UP THE POINTS: Scrabble letters are worth points, and premium squares on the gameboard multiply the score. Surprise opponents with 2-letter words, challenge their choices, and strategize to win
- GAME FOR 2-4 PLAYERS: Go for classic Scrabble gameplay in a head-to-head face-off, or mix things up and play in teams. The game guide offers expert tips, and other ways to play this classic word game
- FUN FAMILY GAME: Do you remember playing Scrabble when you were a kid? Introduce this fun game to your kids and grandkids! Connect over a classic board game and create memories for generations to come
- QUALITY YOU TRUST – 1 gameboard, 5 monster mats, 4 monster figures, 5 hero standees, 10 citizen standees, 20 bases, 60 item tokens, 4 lair tokens, 31 monster tokens, 1 terror marker, 1 frenzy marker, 30 monster cards, 20 perk cards, 5 reference cards, 1 item bag, 3 dice, and instructions.
- IMMERSIVE GAMEPLAY – Sculpted miniatures capture Sphinx, Yeti, Jiangshi, and Cthulhu in exquisite detail. The devil is in the details with rich illustrations and bits of lore about this unique doorway between worlds and its mysterious stewards.
- NEW GAMEPLAY – Love Horrified: Universal Monsters and Horrified: American Monsters? Horrified: World of Monsters includes a lair mechanic and the Horrified series’ first multi-phase challenge. After you defeat Cthulhu, can you seal them away... for now?
- REPLAYABLE AND FLEXIBLE –– Choose different combinations of monsters every game to experience new strategies and tactics. Horrified is your next game night favorite... or enjoy the included solo mode!
- COMBINE FOR MORE THRILLS – Horrified: World of Monsters is compatible with Horrified: Greek Monsters. Use the included instructions to mix and match monsters from both games for even more monstrous combinations.
- RULE THE GRID 4 THE WIN: With this classic Connect 4 game, featuring a sleek modern style, players go head-to-head as they try to get 4 of the same color discs in a row to win
- EXCITING STRATEGY GAME: Challenge a friend to rule the grid! Strategy drives the competition in this Connect 4 board game. Line 'em up, block opponents, and be the first to get 4 in a row to win
- MODERN STYLE & COOL COLORS: The Connect 4 Classic Grid kids game takes the popular game one step further with a sleek style and cool colors to keep players glued to the grid
- 3 WAYS TO PLAY: Choose classic Connect 4 gameplay, the free-for-all Connect 4 Frenzy variation, or a third option that lets players drop a disc or eject one from the bottom with the pop-out feature
- EASY, FAST, AND FUN GAME FOR FAMILIES: Easy to learn and simple to set up, the Connect 4 Classic Grid family game for 2 players is a fast-playing favorite
1. **Catan: Rise of the Merchants**
Catan: Rise of the Merchants is a fresh take on the classic Catan game. This version introduces new mechanics that allow players to trade goods more dynamically. The addition of merchant routes adds a layer of strategy, making it essential to plan your moves carefully. The game is visually stunning, with beautifully illustrated cards and a modular board that keeps each session unique.
Review Players have praised the game for its engaging gameplay and the strategic depth it offers. The new trading mechanics have been particularly well-received, as they encourage interaction among players. If you loved the original Catan, this version is a must-try.
2. **Terraforming Mars: Ares Expedition**
Terraforming Mars: Ares Expedition is a streamlined version of the beloved Terraforming Mars. This card game focuses on the same theme of transforming Mars into a habitable planet but does so in a more accessible format. Players manage resources and develop their corporations while racing against each other to make Mars livable.
Review Fans of the original game will appreciate the familiar mechanics, while newcomers will find it easier to grasp. The artwork is stunning, and the game plays smoothly, making it a great addition to any game night.
3. **Dune: Imperium – Rise of the Bene Gesserit**
Dune: Imperium – Rise of the Bene Gesserit expands on the original Dune: Imperium game, adding new factions and mechanics. Players can now explore the intricate politics of the Dune universe while competing for control of the desert planet. The game combines deck-building and worker placement, creating a rich strategic experience.
Review The expansion has been lauded for its depth and replayability. The new factions add variety, and the thematic elements immerse players in the Dune universe. It’s a perfect choice for fans of the franchise and strategy lovers alike.
4. **Wingspan: European Expansion**
Wingspan has taken the board gaming world by storm, and the European Expansion adds even more variety to this bird-themed game. With new bird cards, player boards, and goals, this expansion enhances the original gameplay while introducing new strategies.
Review Players have enjoyed the added complexity and the beautiful artwork of the new bird cards. The expansion is a fantastic way to refresh the base game and keep it exciting for seasoned players.
5. **The Crew: Mission Deep Sea**
The Crew: Mission Deep Sea is a cooperative trick-taking game that builds on the success of its predecessor. Players work together to complete missions while navigating the challenges of underwater exploration. The game emphasizes communication and teamwork, making it a great choice for family game nights.
Review Players have found the cooperative aspect refreshing, and the missions provide a sense of progression. The game is easy to learn but offers enough depth to keep players engaged.
6. **Ark Nova**
Ark Nova is a strategic zoo-building game that challenges players to create the most successful wildlife park. Players must manage their resources, build enclosures, and attract visitors while ensuring the well-being of the animals. The game features a unique action selection system that adds depth to the gameplay.
Review Ark Nova has received acclaim for its intricate mechanics and beautiful components. Players appreciate the balance between strategy and theme, making it a standout in the board game market.
7. **Cascadia**
Cascadia is a tile-laying game that invites players to create their own ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest. Players draft habitat tiles and animal tokens to build a harmonious environment. The game is simple to learn but offers strategic depth, making it suitable for all ages.
Review Players have praised Cascadia for its relaxing gameplay and stunning artwork. It’s a perfect game for those who enjoy a more laid-back gaming experience while still engaging in strategic planning.
8. **Lost Ruins of Arnak: Expedition Leaders**
Lost Ruins of Arnak: Expedition Leaders is an expansion that introduces new leaders with unique abilities, enhancing the base game’s exploration and resource management mechanics. Players can now choose from a variety of leaders, each offering different strategies and playstyles.
Review The expansion has been well-received for its ability to add variety and replayability. Players enjoy the new dynamics introduced by the leaders, making each game feel fresh and exciting.
9. **Blood on the Clocktower**
Blood on the Clocktower is a social deduction game that pits players against each other in a battle of wits. Set in a mysterious village, players take on different roles, each with unique abilities. The game encourages discussion, deception, and deduction, making it a thrilling experience.
Review Players have found Blood on the Clocktower to be a standout in the social deduction genre. The game’s mechanics promote engagement and interaction, making it a favorite for larger groups.
10. **MicroMacro: Crime City – Full House**
MicroMacro: Crime City – Full House is a cooperative deduction game where players work together to solve crimes in a sprawling city map. The game challenges players to find clues and piece together the story behind each crime.
Review Players have enjoyed the unique art style and the engaging gameplay. The cooperative aspect fosters teamwork, making it a great choice for families and friends.
Buying Guide for Board Games
When selecting the best board games for your collection, consider the following factors:
1. **Player Count**: Ensure the game accommodates the number of players you typically have. Some games are better suited for larger groups, while others are ideal for two players.
2. **Game Length**: Consider how much time you want to spend playing. Some games can be completed in under an hour, while others may take several hours.
3. **Complexity**: Assess the complexity of the game. If you’re playing with newcomers, opt for games that are easy to learn and understand.
4. **Theme**: Choose games that align with your interests. Whether you prefer strategy, cooperation, or deduction, there’s a game out there for you.
5. **Replayability**: Look for games that offer varied gameplay experiences. Expansions and modular boards can enhance replayability.
In conclusion, the board games of 2025 offer a diverse range of experiences for players of all skill levels. From strategic challenges to cooperative adventures, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting, these top 10 board games are sure to provide hours of entertainment. Happy gaming!