13 Best Top Rated Board Games in 2024
Finding the perfect board game can be tricky, especially with so many options. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the 13 best top rated board games. We considered fun, ease of learning, and how well the game works for different group sizes. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned player, these top rated board games have something special to offer. From strategic challenges to team-based fun, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to find your new favorite game!
On this list:
13 Catan
Catan is a classic that got us all hooked. It’s all about building settlements, roads, and cities by trading resources. The game is easy to learn but hard to master, making it great for new and experienced players alike. We love the endless replayability thanks to the variable board setup.
12 Pandemic
In Pandemic, you work together to stop global outbreaks of diseases. The game is intense, and the cooperative aspect means you’ll be communicating a lot. We like that it promotes teamwork and is perfect for those who love a good challenge.
11 Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a beautiful game of train routes. The game is simple enough for new players to pick up quickly but deep enough to keep everyone engaged. We love the strategic planning and the satisfaction of completing routes.
10 Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a tile-placement game with simple rules and deep strategy. Players build a medieval landscape, claiming cities, roads, and fields. The game scales well with different player counts, and we love the relaxed yet competitive vibe.
9 Codenames
Codenames is a word game for teams. One player gives clues to help their team guess the correct words on the board. It’s great for parties and gets everyone thinking creatively. We like how each game is different due to the ever-changing word grid.
8 7 Wonders
7 Wonders is a card-drafting game set in ancient times. Players develop their civilizations over three ages, balancing military, science, and commerce. The game is quick yet deep, and we enjoy how every decision matters.
7 Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is a campaign-driven dungeon crawler packed with content. The game offers tactical combat and character progression. We love the narrative and how it feels like an ongoing adventure with friends.
6 Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars puts you in the shoes of corporations working to make Mars habitable. The game involves resource management and engine building. We like the theme and how every game plays out differently.
5 Azul
Azul is an abstract tile-placement game that’s easy on the eyes and the mind. Players draft tiles to complete patterns on their boards. We enjoy the simple yet deep strategies and the tactile feel of the tiles.
4 Root
Root is an asymmetric game where woodland creatures vie for control of the forest. Each faction plays differently, adding tons of replayability. We appreciate the depth and the adorable yet brutal theme.
3 Wingspan
Wingspan is a stunning engine-building game centered around birds. Players attract birds to their wildlife preserves, triggering combos. We love the art, the theme, and the strategic gameplay that keeps us coming back.
2 Scythe
Scythe offers a blend of resource management, area control, and adventure. Set in an alternate history 1920s, it’s deeply immersive. We enjoy the strategic depth and the gorgeous components.
1 Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion takes the best parts of Gloomhaven and makes them accessible. It’s a great entry point into the Gloomhaven universe. We find it to be the best because of its streamlined setup, engaging story, and tactical depth.
