15 Best Adult Board Games 2023 Reviewed for 2024
Discover the best board games 2023 adults with us! Our list highlights games that spark laughter, challenge minds, and create epic showdowns. We considered strategic depth, fun factor, and replayability. Whether you’re amped for strategy or quick-paced fun, these games offer something for everyone. We tested each with our group of friends, leading to heated debates, roaring laughter, and, occasionally, a table-flip or two. You’ll find games that fit any mood or gathering. Prepare to make game night unforgettable with our top picks. Let the fun begin as we unveil the board games capturing hearts and tables everywhere.
On this list:
15 Wingspan
This game is a bird lover’s paradise! In Wingspan, you get to build your own bird sanctuary. We love how it combines strategy, beautiful art, and a bit of luck. Collecting birds with unique abilities and building a chain of combos feels rewarding. The engine-building aspect is both challenging and enjoyable. Plus, you learn about birds! It’s a fantastic game for both casual and seasoned players. We had a blast every time we played.
14 Cascadia
Cascadia is a puzzler’s dream! Imagine building your own perfect habitat. The game is all about tile-laying and pattern-building. It’s beautiful, simple to learn, yet offers deep strategy for those who want it. The mix of nature and strategic thinking is delightful. When we played, it felt both relaxing and competitive—like meditating with a side of rivalry.
13 Azul
A game about tiling your wall? Sounds odd, but Azul makes it thrilling! Picking tiles and placing them to score high is a satisfying challenge. As the game progresses, the stakes get higher and the board looks like a beautiful mosaic! Simple to learn but tough to master, Azul had us competing fiercely and admiring each other’s patterns.
12 Ticket to Ride
All aboard! Ticket to Ride is a classic that gets better with every play. Building train routes across the country is more fun than it sounds! The game combines strategy, surprise, and a race to the finish. We love how it’s simple enough for new players but has layers of strategy for veterans. Our game nights are never complete without a round of Ticket to Ride.
11 Splendor
In Splendor, you’re a gem merchant trying to get the most prestige. It’s fast-paced and strategic. Collect gems, buy cards, and watch your empire grow. The interplay of strategy and luck keeps you on your toes. It’s perfect for a quick yet engrossing game night. We found ourselves always wanting ‘just one more game’.
10 Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is a monster of a game! It’s an epic adventure where you play as a team of mercenaries exploring dungeons and battling foes. It’s a big box of story, tactics, and teamwork that kept us engaged for hours. The depth and replayability are immense. Every session feels like an epic saga. Definitely for those who want a long, immersive experience.
9 Root
Root is a unique war game with cute woodland creatures. Each player leads a different faction, each with its own strategy. It’s quirky, challenging, and very involving. Learning to play is a journey, but the reward is worth it. When we played, alliances were made, and friendships were tested. It’s a different experience every time!
8 Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars takes you on a sci-fi journey to turn the red planet green. It’s a deep, strategic game with loads of replayability. Playing involves managing resources, completing projects, and navigating through different challenges. The game is complex but rewarding. We loved seeing our efforts turn Mars into a habitable world.
7 7 Wonders
In 7 Wonders, you lead an ancient civilization to greatness. The game is quick, fun, and full of strategic choices. We enjoy how it offers a little of everything: resource management, build up, and player interaction. No matter how many times we’ve played, there’s always a new strategy to try. Perfect for those who like a bit of history with their competition.
6 Catan
Catan is the board game that started it all for many of us. Trading, building, and strategizing are key as you settle the island. It’s a game about social interaction and negotiation, where every decision counts. We can’t count how many nights we’ve spent trying to outsmart each other in this classic.
5 Carcassonne
Carcassonne is all about building a medieval landscape. Think of it as competitive puzzle-making. The simple rules and strategic play make it a hit in any group. We especially loved the element of surprise as new tiles are drawn and plans shift. It’s a game where no two playthroughs are ever the same.
4 Scythe
Scythe brings alternate-history Europe to life with mechs and agriculture. It’s a game of territory control and production. Strategy is key, as every move counts towards victory. We found it both beautiful and quite strategic. The game’s unique setting and components make it a standout choice for game nights.
3 Pandemic
Pandemic is a co-op game where you fight to save the world from diseases. We’re all on the same side here—win or lose together. We loved the intense decision-making and teamwork required. It’s challenging but never gets old. Each playthrough feels like a new quest for humanity’s survival.
2 The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine
The Crew brings a new twist to trick-taking games with a space adventure theme! It’s co-op and throws in a story-driven mission for an exciting experience. Communication is key. As we progressed through each mission, the challenge increased. We loved the ‘aha’ moments when things clicked. A great choice for those looking for something different.
1 Dune: Imperium
Dune: Imperium combines deck-building with worker placement. The theme? Epic! Whether you’re a Dune fan or not, the game’s mix of strategy and intrigue is amazing. We found the balance between resource management and conflict compelling. The fight for control felt tense, and each game left us eager for more. And hey, who doesn’t want to rule the universe?
0 Ark Nova
Ark Nova is our top pick for the best board games 2023 adults. It’s a game about building the ultimate zoo. We were hooked by the strategic depth and choices available. Every decision impacts your zoo’s success. Creating enclosures, breeding animals, and managing your zoo’s capabilities is engaging with every turn. The thrill of watching our zoos grow and flourish made it unforgettable. Each game brings new challenges and joy.
