Best Chinese Board Games of 2024: Top 8 Reviewed
Board games are a great way to spend time with friends and family. If you’re curious about chinese board games, you’re in for a treat! We’ve tested many games and picked out the best ones that capture fun, strategy, and that perfect pinch of chaos. Our focus? Games that are easy to pick up for newbies, yet have depth so you don’t get bored. We’ve got a mix that features beautiful design and clever gameplay. Whether you want to contemplate your next move or just have a laugh, this list has something for everyone. Gather ’round the table and check them out!
On this list:
8 The Forbidden City
We love The Forbidden City because it’s like playing a game of clues with a twist. It takes you on a journey through ancient China, solving mysteries while managing resources. One evening, we unwittingly got so absorbed, we skipped dinner! This game is perfect for those who love piecing puzzles together while learning a bit about Chinese history. The board itself is a visual treat, showcasing the architecture and grandeur of the Forbidden City. Plus, it’s easy to learn, making it a great start in the world of Chinese board games.
7 Tang Garden
Tang Garden invites you to build an enchanting garden, and oh boy, does it get competitive! We once spent hours arguing over which pavilion looked prettier. The game allows players to create their own paradise while considering aesthetics, strategy, and balance. It’s a wonderful way to unwind after a long day. By the end, your board will look like a masterpiece, a testament to your strategic genius. The artwork is stunning, making every move a visual delight. If you fancy yourself a landscaper at heart, give this one a shot!
6 Tsuro
In Tsuro, we enjoy crafting our own paths while gently nudging others off theirs. It’s like a polite version of chess, but quicker and with dragons! We had a game night where a friend drew a route that made him win two in a row, and we still talk about it. Perfect for when you want something short, sweet, but still strategic. It’s a tile-based game that’s easy to learn but keeps things interesting every turn. This game is a must if you want to introduce someone to the magic of Chinese board games without overwhelming them.
5 Lanterns: The Harvest Festival
Lanterns: The Harvest Festival has us all feeling like master craftsmen. The game involves placing tiles to earn honor points, and you’ll find yourself planning your every move. We once got super competitive over who could have the most beautiful display. It’s easy to learn but has enough strategic depth to keep everyone engaged. With its beautiful lantern cards and engaging tile-placement mechanics, this game captures the spirit of a traditional Chinese festival. It’s a great pick for a cozy evening in when you’re feeling a bit cultural.
4 Hanabi
Playing Hanabi reminds us of staring at the night sky with friends on a chilly rooftop, trying to put together a perfect fireworks show. This cooperative game is all about communication and strategy. You’ll end up laughing and facepalming over misfired fireworks – just like our last game night! This game teaches players to trust and work together to achieve a common goal. With a unique twist on traditional card games, it’s popular for bringing people together. Hanabi makes cooperative gameplay fun, especially for those new to board games with a Chinese twist.
3 Chinese Checkers
The classic Chinese Checkers game is a timeless treasure. We have spent countless afternoons jumping marbles with friends, and every game felt like a new adventure. Perfect for passing the time, it offers easy access for those intrigued by Chinese board games without needing to absorb complex rules. Because of its simplicity, anyone can compete, making it ideal for family gatherings. Despite its simple setup, it’s packed with strategic potential. Plus, it serves as a delightful introduction to Chinese culture.
2 The Great Wall
The Great Wall is another strategic game with a historical theme. It’s set during the construction of the Great Wall of China, offering similar depth and complexity to Gu Gong.
1 Sushi Go!
Drumroll, please! Sushi Go! wins our top spot, and here’s why. It’s got every ingredient for a perfect game night. Easy to learn? Check. Fast-paced? Absolutely. Deliciously themed? Double check! Imagine our last gathering where we couldn’t stop laughing over silly sushi combos. This game allows players to create the best sushi lineup without the stress of complex strategies. With its adorable artwork and simple gameplay, it’s perfect for newcomers to Chinese board games. And honestly, it’s just super fun to play!
