Best 17th Birthday Ideas: Top 13 Board Games 2024
Looking for the best 17th birthday ideas to make your celebration epic? We’ve got a fantastic list of board games that will have everyone laughing, strategizing, and having a blast. When picking these games, we focused on fun factor, ease of learning, and how well they engage a group of teens and their friends. We’ve found that a great mix of strategy, humor, and cooperation makes for the best birthday memories. So, get ready to blow out the candles and dive into some serious gaming fun!
On this list:
13 Codenames
Codenames is a perfect game for a 17th birthday because of its simplicity and fun factor. The game involves teams guessing words based on clues given by their spymaster. It’s quick to learn, and great for large groups. The best part? It creates lots of laughter and ‘aha!’ moments!
12 Exploding Kittens
Exploding Kittens is a zany, fast-paced card game that’s sure to light up a birthday party. The game is all about strategy, luck, and a bit of chaos—perfect for teenagers! Plus, it doesn’t drag on, keeping everyone engaged and entertained.
11 Sushi Go!
Sushi Go! is an adorable and quick card game where players draft sushi-themed cards to create the best meal. It’s easy to learn and fast-paced, which makes it perfect for a birthday party. It’s cute, fun, and has just the right amount of strategy.
10 Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a classic, and for good reason! It involves strategy and planning, but it’s simple enough to learn quickly. Building train routes across the map can get competitive, making it a perfect game for a group of teenagers looking for a bit of a challenge.
9 CodeNames: Pictures
This is a twist on the classic Codenames, but with images instead of words. It’s a fantastic option if you want something visually engaging and equally fun. The game promotes teamwork and creative thinking, making it a hit at any birthday gathering.
8 King of Tokyo
In King of Tokyo, players take on the roles of giant monsters, robots, and aliens, all battling for control of Tokyo. It’s fast-paced and filled with action, which makes it a great choice for a lively birthday bash. Plus, who doesn’t want to be a giant monster?
7 Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a tile-laying game that’s easy to pick up but has depth for those who want to master it. Building medieval landscapes can be competitive, but it’s also relaxing. It’s perfect for a 17th birthday where you want a mix of strategy and fun.
6 Mysterium
Mysterium is a cooperative game where one player takes on the role of a ghost, giving clues to the others to solve a murder mystery. The game’s atmospheric art and collaborative nature make it perfect for a birthday party with a spooky twist.
5 7 Wonders
7 Wonders is a card-drafting game where players build civilizations by collecting cards. It’s strategic but straightforward, making it a great option for a 17th birthday. The game scales well with different player counts, ensuring everyone stays engaged.
4 Catan
Catan is a classic and a staple in many board game collections. Trading, building, and resource management keep everyone engaged, and the game’s dynamics can change rapidly. It’s perfect for a birthday with friends who love a bit of competition.
3 Dixit
Dixit is a beautifully illustrated game of storytelling and imagination. Players use abstract images to convey hidden meanings. It’s great for a creative group and can spark lots of laughter and conversation—ideal for a 17th birthday.
2 Just One
Just One is a cooperative party game where players give one-word clues to guess a secret word. It’s simple, yet so much fun. It’s perfect for breaking the ice and guaranteed to get everyone in a festive mood.
1 Pandemic
Pandemic is our top pick for a 17th birthday party. It’s a cooperative game where players work together to save the world from disease outbreaks. The game fosters teamwork and strategic planning, making it immersive and engaging. Plus, it’s a great way to bond over high-stakes challenges.
