Best Teen Board Games of 2025: Top 14 Picks
Looking for fun teen board games? Here's our list of the best picks to keep your teen entertained and engaged.
Finding the perfect teen board games can be a bit like searching for the right snack during a movie marathon—tricky yet rewarding. We sifted through piles of boxes, dodging dice and game pieces, to find the ultimate games that teenagers will love. We focused on selecting games that are fun, engaging, and keep teens coming back. Whether it’s strategic planning, quick thinking, or sheer laughter, the games we selected ensure everyone at the table has a blast. From classics to modern hits, these games offer the right mix of fun and challenge for any teen gathering.
On this list:
14 Codenames
Codenames is a word game that’s great for teens because it encourages communication and team work. We once played this at a BBQ, and it got everyone talking and laughing. The best part? You can play it with a large group, which makes for fun parties. It’s a simple yet clever game where players try to guess the words of their teammates using one-word clues. Teens will enjoy the challenge of coming up with creative clues, while also trying to avoid the ‘assassin’ word. Our experience with it has always been a blast, as some of the clues can lead to hilarious misunderstandings.
13 Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a classic pick for teenagers who enjoy strategy with a hint of geography. It’s like a train trip around the world but without the annoying delays. The game’s easy to learn but offers strategic depth, keeping teens engaged. We often pretend we’re train conductors on a mission to connect cities. There was this one time, our friend crafted an elaborate route, only to be thwarted by a misplaced card. The laughs were endless! It’s a great way to mix learning with fun.
12 Pandemic
If there’s one thing teens love, it’s saving the world. Pandemic lets them do just that, battling against the clock to cure diseases. During one game, we were so focused on curing, that we forgot about outbreaks. Oh, the chaos! It’s a cooperative game, so players work together, which adds a different flavor than usual competitive games. It’s intense and can lead to heated discussions, making it a brilliant choice for teens eager for a challenge.
11 Exploding Kittens
Exploding Kittens is pure teen chaos in a box. It’s for those who enjoy the thrill of drawing cards, hoping they won’t pull an exploding kitten. We find it’s a great icebreaker. One session ended with a friendly argument on the logic of defusing kittens. The art is quirky and adds to the fun. Quick, light-hearted, and perfect for teens who like a bit of unpredictability in their games.
10 Sushi Go!
Teens with a love for food will devour Sushi Go! It’s a card drafting game where players collect sushi dishes. During our game nights, seeing someone eyeing that tasty wasabi always brings laughs. It’s simple, fast-paced, and serves a good introduction to card drafting. The cutest sushi art may influence some to grab an extra snack. Picking the best sushi combination becomes a delightful challenge.
9 Carcassonne
For teens who love building, Carcassonne is a game of tile placement with a medieval twist. We remember one session where we tried to build the longest road; it turned into a mega highway! It’s a great puzzle game that also encourages spatial awareness. The strategy keeps everyone on their toes, and it’s so satisfying when a sprawling city connects just right. It’s a blend of challenge and creativity.
8 Splendor
Splendor is all about gem collection, and it’s brilliant for teens who enjoy resource management. We played it at a friend’s birthday, and soon everyone was embroiled in the jewel race! The game is simple to grasp, and turns move quickly. Teens will love the strategic choices, and the chance to collect shiny cards is a bonus. It’s a game of subtle strategies wrapped in beautiful artwork.
7 7 Wonders
For the history-loving teens, 7 Wonders offers a chance to build an ancient civilization. We often find ourselves debating over whether to focus on science or military. The game offers a rewarding mix of strategy and resource management. Competitive, yet friendly, it’s a great way for teens to learn about the wonders of the world while fostering critical thinking skills.
6 The Resistance
The Resistance is perfect for teens who love a good mystery and intrigue. Once, our little brother managed to deceive all of us, and we still talk about it! This social deduction game lets teens test their bluffing skills. It’s about secret identities, trust, and deception. It can lead to some intense discussions, making it a go-to for those who love a game of wits.
5 Betrayal at House on the Hill
This game is a treasure for teens who are fans of horror and adventure. Every session feels like a new story. We vividly recall a session where we turned on each other due to a spooky twist. The game unfolds in chapters, where players explore a haunted house. When the betrayal occurs, it turns into a thrilling showdown. It’s unpredictable, ensuring no two games are the same.
4 King of Tokyo
King of Tokyo lets teens unleash their inner monster. We love rolling dice to smash buildings and gain victory points. It’s fast-paced and full of wild action. The cartoonish art style adds to the fun. It’s a lighter game, ideal for teens looking for something easy to learn but still with plenty of excitement.
3 Catan
Catan is a staple in the world of board games and is perfect for teens who love trading and city-building. Us trying to hoard sheep is a running joke in our group! The negotiation aspect often leads to some friendly bartering. Teens looking for a mix of strategy, commerce, and expansion will find a lot to enjoy in Catan. The roads and cities demand careful planning, which increases its appeal.
2 Dixit
Dixit is a game where creativity reigns supreme. Teens who love storytelling will be captivated. We love how different the interpretations can be — once, someone saw a beach where there was clearly a desert! The imaginative cards lead to unique stories every time it’s played. It’s less about competition and more about sharing perspectives. It’s magical and encourages teens to think outside the box.
1 Azul
Azul is our top pick for teen board games. It’s about creating beautiful tile patterns, perfect for those with an eye for aesthetics. We once had a competitive game where someone almost sabotaged a masterpiece. The game’s simple yet strategic gameplay makes it addictive. Teens find it both relaxing and challenging, striking a balance rare in board games. Every game feels fresh, thanks to its unique scoring mechanics.
