Best Cryptography and Encryption Board Games 2024: Top 7 Picks

We explore 7 awesome board games with cryptography and encryption themes that will boggle your mind. Get ready!
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The Enigma Box coverDecrypto coverSpyfall cover

Crack the Code: The 7 Best Board Games for Cryptography and Encryption Fans

On this list:

7 The Enigma Box

The Enigma Box cover

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Players: 1-6
  • Play Time: 60-120 minutes

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The Enigma Box throws you into the world of cryptography and encryption like no other. You get a real-life mystery box filled with puzzles and secrets. We found ourselves scratching our heads, but also feeling like code-breaking geniuses. Perfect for a game night with friends who love a good challenge.

6 Decrypto

Decrypto cover

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Players: 3-8
  • Play Time: 30-45 minutes

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Decrypto is all about communicating in code. Teams compete to decrypt each other’s messages while keeping their own codes intact. We had a blast trying to outsmart one another. It’s like a Cold War spy film, minus the danger, but with plenty of laughs and ‘aha!’ moments.

5 Spyfall

Spyfall cover

  • Age Range: 13+
  • Players: 3-8
  • Play Time: 15 minutes

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Spyfall is a party favorite in our group. Each round, one player is the spy, while others try to identify them by asking questions. The spy has to think on their feet and blend in. It’s a mix of cryptography and social deduction that often ends in hilarious accusations.

4 Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency cover

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 45-75 minutes

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Cryptocurrency lets you experience the wild world of digital money. Players trade, mine, and hack their way to success. The game’s use of cryptographic concepts makes it feel modern and relevant. We enjoyed the strategic depth and the adrenaline rush of outsmarting our opponents.

3 Escape Room: The Game

Escape Room: The Game cover

  • Age Range: 16+
  • Players: 3-5
  • Play Time: 60 minutes

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Escape Room: The Game brings the escape room experience to your living room. Each scenario challenges you with puzzles that often include cryptographic elements. The pressure of the ticking clock made our hearts race as we worked together to crack codes and escape.

2 Black Sonata

Black Sonata cover

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

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Black Sonata is a solo game full of suspense and intrigue. You play as Shakespeare, trying to uncover the identity of the mysterious Dark Lady. The game uses a clever system of coded clues and hidden movements, keeping us on our toes. A great pick for solo cryptography enthusiasts.

1 Codenames

Codenames cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 2-8
  • Play Time: 15 minutes

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Codenames is our top pick because it combines cryptography and social interaction in the best way possible. Players give one-word clues to help their team guess words on a grid. The challenge of thinking in code while avoiding the dreaded assassin word had us hooked. It’s a perfect blend of strategy, fun, and replayability.

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.