14 Best Adult Board Games for 2024 Reviewed
Searching for the perfect board game for adults can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. We picked 14 awesome board games, focusing on strategy, humor, and replay value. Whether you’re into storytelling, team play, or world domination, these games have something for everyone. From deceptive politics to romantic role-play, our picks ensure endless fun for adults seeking an entertaining escape. So gather your friends, grab some snacks, and get ready to roll the dice on a night of laughter and strategy. Trust us, your game nights will never be the same again!
On this list:
14 Cards Against Humanity
Let’s be honest, if you’re looking for a board game for adults, Cards Against Humanity is a classic. We’ve had many nights where this game brought out the worst – or best – in us. It’s simple and fun, and you don’t have to be a strategic genius to enjoy it. This game shines when played with friends who know each other’s humor. It’s really about the people rather than the cards. Sometimes, it gets a bit out of hand, but that’s part of the fun.
13 Codenames: Deep Undercover
If you like party games that need a little brainpower, Codenames: Deep Undercover is a great choice for adults. It puts a naughty twist on the original Codenames. We found it’s perfect for smaller groups where everyone can join in and feel their words connect. You’re acting like spies, but with a cheeky adult twist. You have to think fast and laugh even faster. The gameplay is easy to learn but can get surprisingly challenging, which is why it’s a hit every time.
12 Secret Hitler
If you’re into strategy and secret identities, this one’s a hoot. Secret Hitler throws you into the political chaos of pre-World War II Germany. Some of us turned into master liars during our game nights, while others ended up being terrible politicians. It’s a game of trust and deceit, which can be a dangerous combo among friends! There’s plenty of room for betrayal and laughter. It might sound serious, but once you get into it, it’s an absolute riot for adults who love a good bluffing game.
11 Ticket to Ride
For those adults who love a good travel theme and a bit of strategy, Ticket to Ride is a charming choice. Our group found this game both relaxing and competitive. It’s all about collecting cards and connecting train routes. You’ll need to think ahead and plan, but you won’t feel overwhelmed. Every time we play, it feels like a new adventure across the map. Plus, there’s something satisfying about claiming a route before your friends can. It’s great for a quieter evening when you still want a bit of friendly competition.
10 The Resistance: Avalon
In The Resistance: Avalon, you’ll get to act like Knights of the Round Table while secretly undermining each other. We loved the tension it brought to our game nights. Each round is full of whispers and accusations, and things get very dramatic. It’s a social deduction game that works brilliantly for adults who enjoy complex stories and deception. The best part is how alliances shift each game, and you can plan intricate strategies or just wing it. Either way, it’s a blast!
9 Wineopoly
If you’ve ever wished Monopoly was more, well, sophisticated, then Wineopoly is your answer. It blends the classic Monopoly gameplay with a wine-loving twist. Our friends who enjoy a good Merlot while gaming absolutely loved it. There’s something too funny about buying vineyards and collecting corks as currency. It’s a brilliant theme for adults who like to sip and strategize. Plus, it doesn’t take itself too seriously, making it a light-hearted choice when you’re in the mood for some grape-themed hijinks.
8 Scythe
For those who like a bit more depth in their board games, Scythe offers a rich and sprawling experience perfect for adults. We spent hours building our empires and exploring its alternate-history world. It’s visually stunning and packed with strategy. You’ll need to manage resources and plan out each move carefully. It might take a few rounds to get the hang of it, but it pays off. The combination of combat, diplomacy, and resource management makes each game unique and exciting.
7 Fog of Love
Fog of Love plays out like a romantic comedy for adults. For those not into traditional board games, this one offers a storytelling experience as you play a couple navigating life. Our gameplay was filled with laughs and unexpected twists. It’s hilarious watching each other make life choices and reacting to the absurd situations. It’s a refreshing break from classic board games and a surprise hit at game nights. It’s perfect for couples or friends who can roll with the laughter that comes with playing out fictional lives.
6 Terraforming Mars
For those adults who dream of space and strategy, Terraforming Mars is gold. We spent many sessions turning the barren Martian landscape into something livable. It’s packed with science but in a fun way. The game involves resource management, planning, and a sprinkle of luck. Every decision affects the planet, and it’s thrilling to see your strategies come to life—or unravel. We loved seeing who could turn Mars into a thriving new home. It’s a game that keeps you hooked till the very end.
5 Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate
For a spooky, chilling time with friends, Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate is fantastic. It merges the haunted theme with the adventure of Baldur’s Gate. Each game we’ve played was full of unexpected twists and eerie moments. It works great for adults who love role-playing and a good scare. You start as a cooperative team, but trust us, things change fast! It’s all about exploring, survival, and sometimes betrayal. The game’s atmosphere and storyline keep everyone on edge till the very end.
4 King of Tokyo
If giant monsters and lots of dice rolling are your kind of fun, King of Tokyo is perfect. We’ve had epic battles where monsters fought for control of Tokyo. This game is easy to learn and quick. It’s great for adults who are looking for light-hearted competition with a pinch of chaos. Each turn is full of surprises, and every game feels fresh. The laughter and friendly rivalries it sparks make it a hit at our gatherings every time.
3 Pandemic
Pandemic is a cooperative game that tests your strategic thinking. We found it both tense and rewarding as everyone works together to stop global outbreaks. It’s perfect for adults who enjoy a challenge and don’t mind a bit of stress. The game requires teamwork and smart planning. What we love most is the satisfaction of winning together. It can be quite the rollercoaster, and every game feels different, keeping us coming back for more.
2 Gloomhaven
For those who love deep storytelling and immersive adventures, Gloomhaven hits the spot. This game is not for the faint-hearted; it’s a commitment. We’ve spent many nights delving into its rich world and battling its many foes. It’s ideal for adults who love role-playing and strategy. The cooperative play and evolving story keep everyone hooked. It’s a journey more than a game, and every session feels like an epic tale. The thrill of victory after a tough scenario is unmatched.
1 Risk
Risk is that classic game where friendships are tested and empires rise and fall. We’ve had plenty of all-nighters playing this timeless strategy game. If you and your friends are fans of global domination with dice, Risk should be on your list. It’s easy to pick up but tough to master, which makes it endlessly replayable. We love the mix of strategy and luck, and the thrill when plans come together—or fall apart. It’s the perfect blend of drama and tactics.
