Break out the board games, because this unofficial holiday is all about a little friendly competition.
Today, April 11, marks National Board Game Day, which means you have a great excuse to dust off the Clue or Trivial Pursuit box and spend time with your family and friends.
Gathering a stockpile over the years, when going through the game closet, you may notice it's been a while since you've refreshed your stock. While there are tried and true games like Risk and Yahtzee, newer games are offering epic nights of laughter, competition and bonding.
Family game nights can look different between households. For those who thrive on competition, you'll want a challenging game battling it out until only one winner remains. If you're in a home with younger kids, you'll need a family-friendly game with rules that aren't too complex. For a family full of talkers who like something a bit slower-paced, a game of Scrabble is always a great choice.
You can only play Monopoly so many times, so we've found new board game ideas full of endless fun that you'll want to play together for National Board Game Day (and beyond). While you'll want to shop these picks for yourself, these finds also make great Mother's Day presents and Father's Day gifts that bring the family together.
Below, check out our top picks for the best board games for an ultimate game night.
The Best Board Games of 2024
USAopoly Blank Slate
Blank Slate tests if great minds really think alike. Quick to learn and easy to play, this game will become a party favorite.
Clue Conspiracy Board Game
Unlike the classic game of Clue, this one has been reinvented for adults and requires increased skill and gameplay.
WS Game Company Scrabble Bianco Edition
Scrabble Day is also happening soon, on April 13. Celebrate with this elevated edition of the classic game.
The Chameleon: An Award-Winning Board Game
In this funny, "mind-reading" game, players try to guess the answer that they think everyone else is putting down. Up to 20 people can play this entertaining game, making it a great choice for large families.
Jumanji Deluxe Game
Play the game of Jumanji — if you dare. The electronic game board makes the sound of beating drums and will have you on the edge of your seat. Suitable for ages 8 and up, this game works for families with children.
What Do You Meme? Core Game
In this hilarious game that's similar to Cards Against Humanity, you'll be given a funny meme and have to pick a related caption to match it. Whoever has the funniest caption wins.
Catan (Base Game) Adventure Board
Released in 2015, Settlers of Catan has quickly become a favorite among board game lovers. Players can learn the game within minutes, but perfecting the right strategy and techniques to win can take years.
Catan Explorers and Pirates Board Game Expansion
If your family enjoys Settlers of Catan, experience the game in a new way with this explorers and pirates expansion pack. You'll explore uncharted areas with dangerous pirate lairs and fishing villages.
WS Game Company Collection: 15 Vintage Bookshelf Board Games
If you're really looking to overhaul your entire game collection, let us suggest this bookshelf board game set. Complete with 15 classic games, including Candy Land, Sorry, Scrabble, Clue, Boggle and more, these games are meant to be displayed.
Trekking The National Parks: The Award-Winning Family Board Game
Educational and fun, this board game highlights National Parks across the United States. If your family loves to be outdoors or visit these beautiful sites, it'll be a hit.
Hasbro Gaming Trivial Pursuit: Wizarding World Harry Potter Edition
Put your Harry Potter trivia knowledge to the test with this fun board game inspired by all things Wizarding. Only super fans will be able to answer all 2,000 questions correctly.
USAopoly Telestrations Original Family Board Game
Telestrations is like a game of telephone but with drawing. Will you be able to guess what the original picture was meant to be after passing it around to the whole family?
Mattel Games Blokus XL Board Game
Who can take over the board without being blocked in by the other players? This game of strategy only takes 30 minutes, but is fun enough to play again and again.
Ticket to Ride Europe Board Game
If your family loves Risk, this is a highly-rated strategy game you'll want to add to your rotation that boasts a 4.9 out of 5-star rating. You'll play as a railroad mogul claiming routes across 20th-century Europe.
Anthropologie Shagreen Luxury Board Game
We’re obsessed with this super luxe Monopoly set at Anthropologie. The aesthetically pleasing board game folds up to fit into a decorative box you can display it on a bookshelf.
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