Top 15 Best Real Time Board Games of 2024
Hey fellow board gamers! We’re on the hunt for that adrenaline rush, and nothing gets the heart racing like a good ‘real time’ board game. Whether you’re defusing bombs under pressure, dashing through dungeons, or navigating the deep sea in a submarine, we’ve scoured the shelves for games that keep you on your toes. Our picks aren’t just about speed; they’re about teamwork, strategy, and, of course, a heap of fun. We made sure each game brings something unique to the table, so you’re guaranteed a thrilling experience, no matter your taste. Strap in, because we’re about to embark on a whirlwind tour through the 15 best ‘real time’ board games out there. Let’s get those timers ready!
On this list:
15 FUSE
FUSE makes you sweat as you defuse bombs in real time. It’s a blast (pun intended) playing it with friends. You’re racing against a timer, so everyone’s shouting and scrambling. Makes you feel like a bomb squad, minus the danger!
14 Escape: The Curse of the Temple
You’ve got to love a game that makes you feel like Indiana Jones. You’re running out of a temple, rolling dice like mad. The CD soundtrack ups the tension, so you’re not just playing; you’re living a thrilling escape.
13 Space Alert
Ever want to yell at your friends in space? Here’s your chance. Space Alert has you defend a spaceship together. The teamwork makes it hilarious when you fail, and super rewarding when you don’t. Plus, the soundtrack makes it extra tense.
12 Magic Maze
It’s like everyone’s silently robbing a mall. You can’t talk but have to work together to move your pieces. It’s funny seeing everyone try to give ‘the look’ when someone misses their move. Perfect for a laugh and some intense silent teamwork.
11 XCOM: The Board Game
If you’re into aliens and stress, this is perfect. You’re part of XCOM, defending Earth from aliens. The app throws curveballs at you, so it’s never the same game twice. It’s a thrill ride in board game form.
10 Captain Sonar
Ever played Battleship and thought, ‘This could be more intense’? Captain Sonar is your answer. You’re on a submarine, with everyone having a role. It’s realtime chaos and a test of your teamwork. Plus, it’s hilarious seeing the other team panic.
9 Kitchen Rush
This game turns your kitchen table into a restaurant kitchen. You’re all cooking, cleaning, and serving. It’s a rush against time that gets everyone laughing and shouting. Who knew running a restaurant could be this much fun?
8 5-Minute Dungeon
This game proves a lot can happen in 5 minutes. You’re beating monsters and bosses, all while the timer’s going. It’s fast, frantic, and loads of fun. Amazing for a quick game with big laughs.
7 Project: ELITE
Alien invasions and real time action? Yes, please. You’re rolling dice and moving your character to beat aliens. What makes it cool is the action is non-stop. You’re always moving, always fighting. It’s a blast with friends.
6 Happy Salmon
It’s weird, it’s loud, it’s hilarious. You’re matching actions with other players, which sounds easy. But when everyone’s shouting ‘High 5!’ or ‘Switcheroo!’, it’s chaos. Great for when you need a good laugh.
5 The Crew: Quest for Planet Nine
Chosen for its real-time, cooperative play that demands quick thinking and teamwork, similar to Flatline but with a unique space exploration theme.
4 Paramedics: Clear!
You’re saving lives in real time. It’s intense and makes you think on your feet. You’ve got to manage your ambulance’s resources and it feels super rewarding when you save a patient. Plus, the pressure is a great way to bond with friends.
3 Galaxy Trucker
Building a spaceship under time pressure is as fun as it sounds. You’re grabbing tiles and trying to make a ship that survives the trip. It’s equal parts hilarious when your ship falls apart and thrilling when it makes it.
2 Ubongo
It’s like real-time Tetris with puzzles. You’re racing against the timer and other players to fit your pieces. Great for a quick game that’s still challenging. Plus, it’s always fun to see who can think the fastest on their feet.
1 Spirit Island
This one tops the list because it’s not just about the real time element; it’s about strategy, cooperation, and defending your island from invaders. It’s deeper, more engaging, and every playthrough feels like a new challenge. The real time aspect keeps the pressure on, making every decision feel impactful. It’s a masterpiece in how it balances complexity and real-time decision making.
