Best Board Games 2021 Review: Top 5 in 2025
Discover the best board games 2021 with our picks: Gloomhaven, The Crew, Pandemic, Cascadia, and Paleo leading the fun!
Ready for game night, folks? We are! The ‘best board games 2021’ list is here, handpicked for maximum fun. We focused on engaging gameplay, replayability, and how easy it was to dive into these games with friends. Whether you’re saving Earth, exploring space, or building ecosystems, these games promise to entertain. Our picks will take you on journeys from battling diseases to strategizing in mysterious lands. So, unleash your inner game enthusiast and join us as we delve into the magic of tabletop gaming!
On this list:
5 Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
This game is a fantastic introduction to the Gloomhaven world. It offers a rich story, fun characters, and loads of adventure without the overwhelming setup. We loved how it streamlined the rules compared to its predecessor. We also appreciated that our friend Ben didn’t try to eat the pieces, unlike that time with Monopoly. The cooperative style encourages teamwork and brought out our strategic sides. Though it’s a little challenging at first, it’s rewarding once you get the hang of it. A must-try for those who love a good fantasy campaign.
4 The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine
We were surprised by how much fun this small box packs! In this cooperative trick-taking game, communication is key, which can be hilarious when Al tries to mime his card. It’s a bit like being in a secret club, with the challenge of working together without speaking. We got really into it, trying to complete each mission and see if we could reach Planet Nine without too many failed attempts. It’s quick to set up, and every round feels different, keeping us all on our toes!
3 Pandemic: Hot Zone – North America
The thrill of saving North America never gets old, and this edition of Pandemic makes the epic task quicker and easier to set up. It’s perfect for a fast-paced game night. We’ve saved the continent more times than we can count, yet it’s always a wild ride. The simplified version makes it accessible for newbies, while still satisfying seasoned players like us. Plus, it’s ideal for our friend Sarah, who has a knack for curing all diseases with style.
2 Cascadia
Cascadia is like a zen puzzle mixed with competitive edge. Imagine building a landscape with wildlife and terrains, all the while trying to outsmart your opponents. The peaceful vibe of the game felt like a vacation from the usual hustle and bustle. We especially enjoyed stealing the best tiles just before someone else could grab them. It was satisfying seeing our little ecosystems grow, while also trying to balance scoring patterns. A crowd favorite for its simplicity and depth.
1 Paleo
Paleo takes the gold for us as the best board game of 2021. It captured our imagination with its theme: surviving in a prehistoric world. Every session is an adventure with unexpected challenges. Whether it’s hunting mammoths or dodging saber-toothed tigers, each decision feels vital. We loved the storytelling element and the need to collaborate deeply as a group. It’s like Bear Grylls meets strategic gaming, and it keeps us on edge every time. Truly, the teamwork required and the excitement it brings makes it the top of our list.
