They say technology has shrunk the world, yet it separates us as well. What better than board games to bring the whole family together together for a ‘game night’ of a different kind?
Board games are making a comeback, and how! They are back as conventional entertainment among families with kids as well as with millennials looking for a way to socialise with friends. It’s as much to do with nostalgia as with the fact that the present generation is being brought up so much screen games. With a growing need for a respite from pixels, a desire to interact away from screens, and a need for human interaction, board games are emerging as a clear winner. As we hurtle at breakneck speed into the age of technology, we are trying to hold onto something familiar.
Board games are said to strengthen social bonds, encourage interaction, build trust and camaraderie and can fill a room with cheers and jeers. Simply put, something remarkable happens – we are able to have fun without technology! Who knew that was possible in this day and age?!
Here are some of my favourites that you might also like to explore with your family. It’s in no way a comprehensive list, but sure is a starting point. The game night snacks still remain the same old favourites though!
It’s easy to learn but difficult to master! The game involves scoring points by placing your coloured tiles on a board while blocking your opponent. With its unique scoring system, every game is different and challenging.
The game consists of wooden blocks with different shapes and colors on them. Since there’s no board with this game, you can set it up anywhere – the table, the bed, the patio, even on a picnic table! It’s simple in construction and play, but requires some thinking if you want to score the maximum points.
A creative thinking category-based game, it’s great for any group to play. The object of the game is to score points by uniquely naming objects within a set of categories, given an initial letter, within a time limit. Think fast, think uniquely.
Players collect cards of various types of train cars they then use to claim railway routes. The longer the routes, the more points they earn. It is available in a few variations as well as with extensions. It has enough action and tension to keep all players involved.
The perfect game for beginners of fantasy tactile adventure games. It has a kind of Harry Potter feel to it with the griffins, cliff runners and trolls that are part of the game. It has simple rules with interesting choices for everyone’s inner strategist. Super fun for the whole family.
At some level, expats might relate to it – it’s a strategy game about moving to a totally new world and forming a life. It has a hexagonal board that is constructed together like a jigsaw, which essentially means that the game never feels stale.
As the name suggests, instead of being a strategy game, this one is a trivia game. So, be sure to get the latest version and brush up on your knowledge. Intellectually rewarding.
This is an abstract strategy game with transparent, Tetris-shaped coloured pieces that players are trying to place on the board. It is pretty easy to understand and can be quite addictive. It aids in developing future planning and strategy skills.
As the name suggests, this is a mergers and acquisitions game, bit like modern day Monopoly. It represents a market with corporations, investors, stock holders. It’s an enjoyable simulation of the wild ride that is the stock market. It even comes with its own set of real-looking share certificates!
The aim of the game is to stop the spread of diseases that have broken out all over the world simultaneously. It’s a cooperative game, which means all players play as a team, with each one having a specific role. It seems easy to play, but has complexities when it comes to strategies. This one will definitely have you coming back for more.
