Best Role Playing Board Games of 2025: Top 6 Picks
Gather ’round, fellow adventurers, as we embark on a quest to unearth the best role playing board games that’ll whisk you away to far-off lands and epic battles. We’ve rolled the dice, battled dragons, and chatted with goblins—all in the name of finding the most exciting experiences for new players. Our criteria? Immersive storytelling, strategic gameplay, and just the right level of tension to keep you on the edge of your seat (or maybe under the table hiding from a troll). Whether you’re a seasoned hero or a fresh-faced wizard, these picks promise unforgettable adventures.
On this list:
6 Dungeons & Dragons: Castle Ravenloft Board Game
Oh boy, where do we start with this one? So, picture a room full of folks who all think they’re secretly a great wizard. That’s exactly how it feels to play this game. You’re exploring a dark castle, and each turn is like unwrapping a mystery burrito; you have no idea what’s inside! Trust us, when the table erupts in cheers or groans, that’s when you know you’re doing it right. It’s not just about killing monsters; it’s about laughter, strategy, and maybe a little bit of trolling your friends.
5 Descent: Journeys in the Dark (Second Edition)
We once swapped out reality for Descent, and it was worth it. The game’s miniatures are so detailed, one of us tried to make them pets! Descent is all about getting lost in dungeons, and boy, did we get lost. From tight battles to strategic maneuvers, it keeps you on your toes. It’s like watching your favorite action movie, except you’re inside it, without the bad CGI.
4 Mansions of Madness: Second Edition
You know that feeling when you hear a creepy noise at night? That’s this game, in a box. After playing, one of us actually slept with the lights on. The game pulls you into its eerie world, with an app narrating your doom. It’s like a horror movie, but without the bad acting. A fantastic choice if you like your role playing dripping with atmosphere!
3 Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is like running a marathon, but with more cardboard and less sweat. This game is a beast, and we mean that in the best way possible. It’s packed with adventures and surprises, making you question every choice like it’s life or death. A game session once led to a two-hour debate on tactics, which is a win in our book. Role playing has never felt more epic!
2 Star Wars: Imperial Assault
In a galaxy far, far away – oops, wrong intro. Imperial Assault lets you live out your Star Wars dreams. If you’ve ever wanted a lightsaber duel in your living room, here’s your chance! Our group played through an entire campaign where one of us couldn’t resist imitating Yoda, leading to lots of laughs and some serious head-scratching strategies. It’s the full role playing experience, Sci-fi style!
1 Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion, we bow to you! It’s the perfect mix of strategy, role playing, and fun. This game simplifies the massive Gloomhaven into a digestible format without losing the magic. One of us even pledged allegiance to their character, which was awkward at the office the next day, but totally worth it. It’s beautifully crafted, engaging, and has everything you want in a game. That’s why it’s earned the top spot.
