Best Table Top Games of 2025: Top 9 Reviewed
Discover seven fantastic table top games that'll light up game night, from Codenames to the epic Gloomhaven adventure.
In the world of table top games, picking the right board game can feel like hunting for the perfect treasure. We at Jamie’s Game Corner love games that bring people together, make you think, and keep you laughing for hours on end. Our top picks include games that offer a mix of strategy, creativity, and a good dose of chaos. Whether you’re new to the world of table top games or a seasoned veteran, this list is packed with classics that are easy to learn and impossible to put down. Get ready to roll the dice and have some fun!
On this list:
9 Settlers of Catan
Settlers of Catan is the granddaddy of table top games. We have spent countless hours haggling over sheep, brick, and especially wheat. It’s a perfect starter for anyone new to board gaming with its easy-to-learn rules and strategic depth. Moreover, the board changes every game, so no two games are the same, keeping it fresh every time. Even Grandma got into it and declared herself the Queen of Grain! Trust us, the game is great.
8 Ticket to Ride
Who knew collecting train cards could be so thrilling? Ticket to Ride is a game where you’re building train routes across a map of your choice. It’s a fantastic table top game for the whole fam. The first time we played, Uncle Bob monopolized the Midwest, but it just made us more competitive. The game is easy to set up and learn. We love the blend of strategy and luck. Plus, it’s nice to win something other than ‘Most Likely to Sleep Through an Earthquake.’
7 Pandemic
Pandemic is the game where nobody wants to be sick, yet everyone ends up infected! As a team, you work to save the world from outbreaks. It’s one of those table top games that really tests your friendship. We play it whenever we’re feeling too confident about our ability to solve problems together. The cooperative aspect makes it unique, and it demands strong communication. Plus, it’s a great reminder that we didn’t pass our biology classes for nothing!
6 Carcassonne
With Carcassonne, you get to build cities, roads, and fields, while blocking your friends’ plans in the cutest way possible. It’s one of those table top games where you can just watch your grand design slowly turn into chaos. Our friend Dave played once and got lost in his own city! It’s simple to learn yet layered in strategy. Plus, there’s a real satisfaction in placing that perfect tile.
5 Azul
Azul is a feast for the eyes. We first picked it up because the tiles looked like candy. The objective is to decorate a palace wall, but we end up fighting over the prettiest designs, which is surprisingly fun. A perfect game for those who like everything neat and tidy. It’s simple but can be strategic if you’re into sabotaging your friends’ plans (which we are). Also, be careful not to eat the tiles!
4 7 Wonders
We feel like real architects when we play 7 Wonders, even though our monuments would probably fall apart IRL. It’s a card drafting game that challenges players to develop their civilizations over three ages. We love how every decision counts, and the competition is fierce. The variety of cards ensures replayability, so it’s perfect for those who enjoy a complex yet rewarding table top gaming experience. Plus, it’s great for parties since more players can join in the fun!
3 Splendor
Splendor is about collecting gems to become the richest gem merchant. Sounds fancy, right? We got into a serious trading rivalry that ended with one of us opening a real online gem store. Just kidding! But the game is all about building a powerful economy with cards and tokens. It’s incredibly satisfying when you score a coveted card just before your opponent. This game is all about strategic planning and long-term strategy, perfect if you’re tired of another naughts-and-crosses game from your daily life!
2 Dixit
Dixit is a dreamy, card-based game of imagination and creativity. We once played it after a long day and realized how terrible we are at being poetic! It’s a game about creating stories from beautifully illustrated cards, which often results in laughter and confusion alike. It’s a fantastic game for anyone who loves to weave tales and test their creativity. It’s a unique blend of art and storytelling, making it a delightful addition to any table top games collection.
1 Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven stands as our top pick for the best table top game due to its sheer depth and commitment to storytelling. Imagine a game where you get to be part of an epic saga, with characters that evolve based on your choices. We’ve clocked in more hours than we’d like to admit, yet haven’t explored all it offers. It’s pricier, but worth every penny for those seeking a long-lasting adventure. Plus, nothing beats the feeling of finally defeating that boss you’ve been stuck on for weeks!
