9 Best Role Playing Board Games of 2024

Check out our top 9 role playing board games. Perfect for new players looking to dive into immersive adventures.
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Gloomhaven coverBetrayal at House on the Hill coverMansions of Madness: Second Edition cover

Looking for the best role playing board games? You’ve come to the right place. When picking games for our list, we focus on immersive storytelling, engaging mechanics, and a dash of fun. We want games that pull you into the world and make you feel like you’re part of an epic adventure. Whether you prefer battling monsters, solving mysteries, or saving the world from a deadly virus, our selection covers it all. Get ready to gather your friends, choose your characters, and embark on unforgettable journeys with these top role playing board games.

On this list:

9 Gloomhaven

Gloomhaven cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1-4
  • Play Time: 60-120 mins

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Gloomhaven offers a deep, immersive world full of adventure. We spent countless hours trekking through dungeons and battling monsters. Each decision feels meaningful. Plus, the legacy aspect makes every game unique.

8 Betrayal at House on the Hill

Betrayal at House on the Hill cover

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Players: 3-6
  • Play Time: 60 mins

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This game is a rollercoaster! We loved how the game can change dramatically. One moment you’re exploring, the next, someone betrays you. It’s a blend of horror and fun. Perfect for role playing fans.

7 Mansions of Madness: Second Edition

Mansions of Madness: Second Edition cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1-5
  • Play Time: 120-180 mins

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Imagine being trapped in a Lovecraftian nightmare. That’s Mansions of Madness. The app integration adds a unique twist, making every scenario intense. We couldn’t get enough of the chilling mysteries.

6 Descent: Journeys in the Dark

Descent: Journeys in the Dark cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 2-5
  • Play Time: 120 mins

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Descent lets one player be the dungeon master while the rest are heroes. The best part is the tactical combat. We felt like strategists planning our every move. It’s a classic in the role playing genre.

5 Dungeons & Dragons: Wrath of Ashardalon

Dungeons & Dragons: Wrath of Ashardalon cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1-5
  • Play Time: 60 mins

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Wrath of Ashardalon captures the essence of D&D in board game form. We loved the cooperative play and the story-driven campaigns. It’s a simpler, faster way to get your role playing fix.

4 Arkham Horror

Arkham Horror cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1-8
  • Play Time: 120-240 mins

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Arkham Horror is a beast of a game. We spent entire afternoons fighting off eldritch horrors. The lore is rich and the gameplay is deep. Perfect for those who want a detailed role playing experience.

3 The Legend of Drizzt

The Legend of Drizzt cover

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Players: 1-5
  • Play Time: 60 mins

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Another D&D spin-off, Drizzt is fantastic for those who love the novels. We enjoyed the scenarios and the character-driven stories. It’s quick to set up and engage, ideal for casual role playing sessions.

2 Tales of the Arabian Nights

Tales of the Arabian Nights cover

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Players: 1-6
  • Play Time: 120-240 mins

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This one is all about storytelling. In each playthrough, we created epic tales filled with adventure and magic. The role playing is lightweight but fun. It’s like living in a storybook.

1 Pandemic Legacy: Season 1

Pandemic Legacy: Season 1 cover

  • Age Range: 13+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 60 mins

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Pandemic Legacy: Season 1 takes the top spot. This game was an emotional rollercoaster. Every game changed the world permanently. We became attached to our characters. It’s the best role playing board game because it offers a unique, evolving story with every play.

Jamie in his proper element: With all of his board games
Jamie Hopkins

With years of dice-rolling, card-flipping, and strategic planning under my belt, I've transformed my passion into expertise. I thrive on dissecting the mechanics and social dynamics of board games, sharing insights from countless game nights with friends. I dive deep into gameplay mechanics, while emphasizing the social joys of gaming. While I appreciate themes and visuals, it's the strategy and camaraderie that truly capture my heart.