2025’s 7 Best Reddit Best Board Games Reviewed
Looking for the reddit best board games? We tested classics and new hits to bring you fun, easy picks for every group.
7 Reddit Best Board Games That Everyone Should Try
We know the struggle. You see the endless threads about ‘reddit best board games’ and think—where do we even start? With our group of easily distracted friends and a range of board game skills, we wanted games that are fun, easy to teach, and replayable. We picked these seven based on how often they show up on Reddit, how simple they are to get into, and how wild our game nights got when we played them. No spoilers yet, but our list has something for brainiacs, party animals, and everyone in between.
On this list:
7 Codenames
Codenames always pops up on reddit best board games threads, and for good reason. It’s that game where you try to say less but mean more, like when your friend says ‘bring snacks’ and you show up with a full charcuterie board. Whether playing with new folks or old pals, the wordplay and spy theme gets everyone guessing and laughing. We have played this game many, many times, and can confirm that it never gets old—unless you keep making the same bad joke about the word ‘mouse’. It’s easy to learn, makes you feel smart, and causes more suspense than my last paycheck. If you want something you can bring to any party, this is it.
6 Wingspan
Wingspan is the kind of game that would make even your birdwatching aunt feel cool. It lands on every reddit best board games list because it’s pretty, relaxing, and just brainy enough. We once spent a whole afternoon pretending to be ornithologists—until someone pronounced ‘Chihuahuan Raven’ wrong and it all went off the rails. The game’s engine building makes every turn rewarding, and those bird eggs are basically pastel M&Ms. The art? So good, you’ll wish you could frame it. It’s a great pick for gamers who want something strategic but not too spicy.
5 7 Wonders
7 Wonders pops up all over reddit best board games posts, and we get the hype. If you like drafting cards and pretending to build ancient wonders while trash talking your friends, this one’s for you. We’ve played with everyone from board game snobs to total newbies, and it always clicks after a round or two. It’s fast but feels epic, especially when your neighbor blocks you from that last blue card you really needed. Plus, since everyone plays at the same time, nobody sits around twiddling thumbs (or phones).
4 Azul
Azul is what happens when you mix beautiful tiles with surprisingly cutthroat gameplay. It’s often featured in reddit best board games lists, and after one session, we saw why. We became polite tile thieves, stealing perfect patterns and then giggling when someone else had to take a pile of leftovers. It’s got that tactile thing going too—those tiles feel so nice, you might be tempted to keep playing after the game ends. It’s easy to learn, hard to master, and pretty enough to leave on your coffee table.
3 Spirit Island
If you want to feel heroic AND stressed, Spirit Island is the pick. Reddit best board games fans love it for the deep co-op strategy and unique theme. We played as nature spirits defending our island, and—we kid you not—ended up yelling at clouds (the invaders) and each other. It’s heavier than some others on this list, but so rewarding when you pull off a combo and save the day. The variable powers mean every game feels different. Perfect for groups who like to talk strategy (and occasionally bicker).
2 Pandemic
Pandemic isn’t just timely—it’s timeless. It shows up in reddit best board games lists every year. We once played during an actual cold and kept joking about ‘outbreaks’ whenever someone sneezed. This co-op classic has all the drama: world-saving, team tension, and the sweet sensation of either glorious victory or shared defeat. It’s easy to teach and gets everyone talking, planning, and, if you’re like us, blaming each other for losing Sydney. All you need for a great game night is friends, snacks, and a willingness to risk the fate of humanity.
1 Root
Root is the king of reddit best board games for good reason. We crowned it number one because it does everything: strategy, intrigue, fighty woodland creatures, and asymmetric play that makes every game feel new. Our group still argues over who played the best Vagabond (it was me) and who caused the biggest chaos (definitely Rob). It looks cute but plays like chess with raccoons. The learning curve isn’t tiny, but once you get it, you’ll be hooked. If you want a game that feels fresh every time and has more drama than any TV show, this is it.
