Best 14 Games When Bored in 2024: Top Picks
Hey there, fellow bored humans! We’ve all been there—staring at the wall, wishing for some fun. That’s when ‘games when bored’ save the day. We’ve crafted a list of 14 engaging board games to zap boredom into oblivion. Our selections focus on games that are fun, easy to learn, and perfect for a quick escape. Whether you’re strategizing world domination or just trying to make people laugh, these games cover all the bases. Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a journey to turn those yawns into cheers. Let’s get gaming!
On this list:
14 Exploding Kittens
Exploding Kittens is a zany card game that we’ve all come to love. It’s about defusing kittens that explode. It sounds easy, but it’s not. Our group loves the fast-paced gameplay and the humorous artwork—perfect for quick fun when bored. The simple rules make it a hit at parties and a great icebreaker.
13 Catan
Catan is a classic that always seems to fit the bill. This strategy game is perfect for trade lovers. We’ve had countless nights bartering sheep for bricks. The board changes every game, keeping things fresh and helping it maintain its charm as a ‘games when bored’ choice.
12 Ticket to Ride
Building railroads across the country was never this fun. Ticket to Ride has us planning routes like we’re rail tycoons. It’s quick to learn and perfect for anyone looking to have a good time without being bogged down by rules.
11 Codenames
Codenames is a word game that keeps everyone on their toes. Each team tries to guess words based on one-word clues. We’ve enjoyed many sessions of trying to read each other’s minds while giggling at our silly mistakes.
10 Sushi Go!
Sushi Go! is a card-drafting game that takes us on a sushi feast. We love the cute sushi faces on the cards and the fast-paced rounds. It’s easy to set up and tear down, making it a go-to for quick fun when bored.
9 Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a tile-laying game where players build a medieval landscape. We enjoy the creativity and strategy involved in placing tiles and followers. The simple yet deep mechanics ensure it doesn’t get dull, even after many plays.
8 Azul
Azul is as beautiful as it is fun. Players draft tiles to create stunning mosaics. We’ve found it’s perfect for when we want something visually appealing and strategic. It’s a rewarding choice when looking for games to play when bored.
7 Pandemic
Pandemic has us saving the world from diseases. It’s a cooperative game where teamwork is essential. We enjoy the sense of accomplishment when overcoming challenges. It is our pick when we need something more intense.
6 King of Tokyo
King of Tokyo lets us become giant monsters fighting for dominance. The dice-rolling and power-ups make it a blast. Easy to learn and filled with action, it’s a sure-fire answer for games when bored.
5 The Resistance
The Resistance is a game of deception and deduction. We love not knowing who is friend or foe while trying to complete missions. It’s a great choice for when you want something thrilling and full of suspense.
4 Blokus
Blokus is a territory control game that channels players’ inner Tetris master. Its strategic gameplay and short setup time make it a constant favorite when seeking something fun and challenging.
3 7 Wonders
7 Wonders is a civilization-building game that offers depth and variety. We love the strategic decisions and the satisfaction of developing our civilizations. It’s a great option for a more involved experience when bored.
2 Santorini
Santorini is a simple yet strategic game where players build towers on an island. We appreciate the simple rules and the depth of tactics involved. It’s our go-to pick when wanting something quick yet engaging.
1 The Mind
The Mind is the best ‘games when bored’ option. We love it for the unique and subtle communication required to play. Players work together to place cards in order, and it’s all about reading each other’s vibes. The suspense of not knowing when to act keeps us hooked. We haven’t found anything that brings us together quite like The Mind. It’s simple, challenging, and endlessly replayable.
