Best Environmental Board Games of 2025: Top 6 Picks
Are you and your friends ready to play some exciting environmental board games? We’ve picked the best ones for the eco-friendly gamer in you. Our list focuses on games with engaging themes, replayability, and a healthy dose of strategy. These games transport you to lush forests, vibrant ecosystems, and even distant planets. We’ve tested them all out, and let me tell you, every game night turned into an epic adventure! From cultivating your own woodland city to reviving a planet, these environmental board games will make you think about our planet while having a blast.
On this list:
6 Everdell
Everdell has us living among cute animals in a lush forest, building a critter utopia. The game mechanics mix worker placement and tableau building. The art is stunning and pulls you right into the environment. It’s a fantastic blend of strategy and nature, perfect for those who appreciate both. Our friends loved the little critter meeples, and we found ourselves imagining what life would be like in such a picturesque place. If you’re after a board game that merges environmental themes with engaging gameplay, Everdell is a safe bet.
5 Wingspan
Wingspan is all about birds and collecting them in various habitats. With a whopping 170 unique bird cards, each with their own powers, the game provides a rich environmental theme. You’ll learn about different bird species while having fun trying to create the best bird sanctuary. It’s got a blend of strategic depth and educational value, though one friend of ours tried hoarding eggs instead of spotting birds, which was hilariously off-theme, but strangely effective.
4 Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars has us dreaming about the future, where we make Mars hospitable. The game is complex, and the environmental theme is woven into its mechanics beautifully. Players work as corporations to create a livable Martian ecosystem, complete with forests, oceans, and warmer temperatures. It’s heavy on strategy and science, which keeps everyone at the table thinking. One night, we debated whether we’d sign up to live on Mars ourselves, seeing if we’d pack enough snacks for the trip!
3 Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis offers a unique twist on strategy games with its focus on trees and sunlight. Players grow trees in the forest, competing for light. The board itself changes with each game, creating a fresh experience every time. It’s like a puzzle mixed with an environmental lesson. We found ourselves arguing about the best spots for our trees as if we were actual botanists fighting for sun. It’s a great pick for those who love tactile games with an eco-friendly theme.
2 CO2: Second Chance
CO2: Second Chance confronts us with a real-world issue: climate change. In the game, players work as companies trying to build renewable energy plants. The tension between profit and the environment is palpable. Every turn feels like a critical decision, reflecting real-life stakes. Our group had some heated discussions about what energy sources to invest in, mirroring any environmental debate at a city council meeting. It’s unique in its approach and deeply satisfying to play.
1 PARKS
PARKS is hands down our top environmental pick, letting players hike through stunning national parks. With jaw-dropping artwork and smooth gameplay, it captures the essence of nature more than any other. Players collect memories by visiting parks, with gear and canteens to assist. It’s like National Geographic met a board game. During one session, we found ourselves sharing stories of our own park visits, making it as much about the game as our memories. If you’re looking for a game that celebrates the beauty of our world, PARKS is it.
