14 Best Games Ever Reviewed in 2025
Gather ’round, fellow game lovers! We’re on a mission to uncover the best games ever. Our journey focuses on games that entertain, challenge, and bring people together. We look for board games that spark joy, test strategy skills, and get players talking. From family-friendly fun to epic strategy battles, our list is packed with games for all tastes. So, prepare for house rules debates, friendship tests, and countless laughs as we explore these 14 legendary board games. Let’s roll the dice and see which ones made the cut in our best games ever quest!
On this list:
14 Catan
We couldn’t forget Catan in our list of best games ever, could we? Every weekend we get the gang together and watch as friendships hang in the balance over sheep trades. This gateway board game with its resource management and trading boosts a sense of strategy unlike any other. The hexagonal tiles and roads make a mini-world blueprint that’s as satisfying to look at as it is to play. However, if you’re that guy who never gets any wheat, don’t say we didn’t warn you!
13 Carcassonne
Carcassonne makes it to our list of best games ever for its delightful simplicity. The game welcomes newbies with open arms yet keeps the veterans on their toes. It’s all about building cities and roads, but don’t let the simplicity fool you; the strategic depth is profound, and those tiny tiles are deceptively addicting. Our Saturday nights often transition into Sunday mornings as we fight for supremacy over the pastoral lands of Carcassonne.
12 Ticket to Ride
All aboard the Ticket to Ride train to the best games ever list! Who knew connecting cities could be such an adrenaline-packed ride? The gameplay is simple and the rules easy to grasp, perfect for a relaxed game night or a sibling rivalry showdown. We’ve seen fierce battles over train routes. Just remember, the longest train route won’t mean anything if you’ve missed your connection to Miami!
11 Pandemic
In Pandemic, you and your friends become heroes fighting global disease outbreaks. It made our list of best games ever for the co-op play and nail-biting suspense. Imagine our group huddled around the table, each of us a specialist tasked with saving the world. The tension is as thick as grandma’s gravy, and the feeling when you’re victorious is unparalleled! Keep tissues handy though, because outbreaks are sudden and often tear-inducing.
10 7 Wonders
Ah, 7 Wonders, a card drafting game that combines strategy, resource management, and a dash of civilization building. Making it to our best games ever roster was a no-brainer. We’ve often played this at our game nights, and it never disappoints. Each player leads a civilization through three ages, which sounds heavy but is actually a breeze. You’ll be building a wonder before you know it while keeping a close eye on those crafty neighbors.
9 Azul
Azul, with its beautiful tiles, is easily one of the best games ever for family game night. We’ve seen the simple joy of creating patterns turn into intense head-to-head competitions. The game strikes a balance between a quick playtime and strategic depth, making it perfect for both new players and seasoned veterans. We love the tactile feel of the tiles, but watch out, it’s more cutthroat than you’d expect!
8 Splendor
Splendor is a shining gem in our lineup of best games ever. It’s all about collecting jewels and building an empire of luxury. With each play, my friends and I find ourselves immersed in the game’s economy, strategizing our way to victory. It’s a simple yet addictive game, perfect for those who appreciate a touch of elegance in their board games. Just don’t let the excitement of gem collecting blind you to your opponents’ moves!
7 Dominion
Dominion, our weeknight favorite, earns its spot in the best games ever list due to its innovative deck-building mechanics. Every game is a unique adventure, reshuffling strategies and adapting to fresh scenarios. We’ve all had moments where a well-crafted deck leads to an epic triumph, and of course, some where our plans crumble like a poorly made house of cards. But that’s the fun of it!
6 Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars finds itself on our best games ever roster for its depth of strategy and theme of exploration. Crafting a habitable Mars is no easy feat, and the sense of accomplishment is unparalleled. We’ve spent countless hours navigating through corporate strategies and scientific advancements. If you’re into long games with complex choices, this is the ticket. But be warned, once you start, you might not want to stop until you’ve conquered the red planet.
5 Codenames
Codenames has claimed its place among the best games ever due to its engaging wordplay and clever deductive reasoning. We’ve had countless hilarious moments interpreting clues and, of course, missteps that lead to groans of disbelief. The split-second decisions and teamwork required make it a standout game for parties and group gatherings. Whether you’re a secret agent at heart or enjoy clever wordplay, Codenames hits the mark.
4 Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven makes a big splash in the best games ever lineup with its immersive world and detailed campaign. We’ve poured hours into this game, and each session feels like an epic journey into the unknown. It’s for the strategic thinkers and fantasy lovers who thrive on long-term planning and storytelling. Be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster though, as victories feel hard-earned, and defeats quite personal.
3 Wingspan
Wingspan soars onto our best games ever list with its serene atmosphere and educational twist. Each game is an exploration of birds and ecosystems, drawing us into a calm yet competitive experience. We’ve been captivated by the beautiful artwork and balanced mechanics, which never fail to inspire awe. For nature lovers and strategists alike, Wingspan offers a unique blend of relaxation and challenge.
2 Agricola
Agricola makes our best games ever list as the king of farming simulators. It’s about managing resources and time, two things we’re usually terrible at, but incredibly satisfying when mastered. Each player runs their own farm, and the game beautifully mirrors the challenges of rural life. We’ve had our fair share of laughter and frustration as we navigate this simulation. It’s not the easiest game to learn, but once you get the hang of it, it’s like planting seeds in rich soil.
1 Scythe
Scythe is our pick for the best game ever. Blending strategy, economy, and area control, it creates a rich tapestry of gameplay. We’ve spent hours in its dieselpunk world, each decision weighty and impactful. The game scales beautifully with player count, providing a tense and satisfying experience each time. Whether we’re farming, forging alliances, or waging war, Scythe consistently delivers a thrilling and immersive experience.
