Best Board Games 2024: 6 Must-Have Picks

Our top picks for the best board games 2024 include Terraforming Mars, Wingspan, Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion, and Azul.
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Terraforming Mars coverWingspan coverGloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion cover

6 Best Board Games 2024: Our Top Picks Revealed!

Who doesn’t love a good game night? For 2024, we scoured the board game universe to bring you the best board games 2024 has to offer. We focused on games that mix fun with strategy, have great replay value, and of course, look stunning on the table. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the hobby, these picks are sure to spice up your game nights. Let’s get the dice rolling and the cards shuffling!

On this list:

6 Terraforming Mars

Terraforming Mars cover

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Players: 1-5
  • Play Time: 120 minutes

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Terraforming Mars continues to be a hit. It’s a game where players work together to transform Mars into a habitable planet. The strategic depth keeps you coming back for more. Plus, the theme is timely given our interest in space.

5 Wingspan

Wingspan cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 1-5
  • Play Time: 40-70 minutes

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Wingspan is a beautiful game about bird watching. It’s relaxing yet strategic. Players love the stunning artwork and the educational aspect. Plus, it’s easy to learn, making it perfect for newbies.

4 Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion

Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1-4
  • Play Time: 30-120 minutes

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This is a streamlined version of Gloomhaven. It’s easier to set up and play. The cooperative gameplay and rich story make it a hit. It’s a great entry point for those who found the original intimidating.

3 Azul

Azul cover

  • Age Range: 8+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 30-45 minutes

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Azul is a tile-placement game with a beautiful design. It’s simple to learn but offers plenty of strategy. The tactile feel of the tiles makes it engaging. Plus, it’s great for family game night.

2 Pandemic

Pandemic cover

  • Age Range: 8+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 45 minutes

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Pandemic has been around for a while, but it’s perfect for 2024. It’s a cooperative game where players work to stop global outbreaks. The timely theme and cooperative nature make it relevant and engaging.

1 Scythe

Scythe cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1-7
  • Play Time: 90-115 minutes

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Scythe takes the crown as the best board game of 2024. The game combines strategy, resource management, and combat. It’s set in an alternate history, which is captivating. The miniatures and artwork are top-notch, making it a joy to play.

Jamie in his proper element: With all of his board games
Jamie Hopkins

With years of dice-rolling, card-flipping, and strategic planning under my belt, I've transformed my passion into expertise. I thrive on dissecting the mechanics and social dynamics of board games, sharing insights from countless game nights with friends. I dive deep into gameplay mechanics, while emphasizing the social joys of gaming. While I appreciate themes and visuals, it's the strategy and camaraderie that truly capture my heart.