Best Environmental Board Games of 2025: Top 5 Review

Explore the best environmental board games with us. Get ready for CO2, Photosynthesis, and more exciting action!
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CO2: Second Chance coverPhotosynthesis coverEcos: First Continent cover

Discovering board games that captivate us while also shedding light on our planet is a real treat. When selecting the top 5 environmental board games, we looked for those that not only entertain but also educate and spark meaningful conversations. It’s not all about strategy; sometimes the artwork, theme, and how the game draws you into the environmental narrative play a huge part. We love games that make us think about our impact on the world while having fun with friends. Grab some snacks and join us as we explore these amazing and thought-provoking games!

On this list:

5 CO2: Second Chance

CO2: Second Chance cover

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

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CO2: Second Chance is an engaging game that puts you in the shoes of a world leader trying to control resource consumption. You debate with your buddies over sustainable energy solutions. It creates epic environmental conversations, almost like an intense negotiation meeting! But don’t lose focus—balance economies without harming the planet. This game is a lively reminder that saving Earth isn’t all hugs and puppies.

4 Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis cover

  • Age Range: 8+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 30-60 minutes

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Photosynthesis is a strategic forest-building game that makes you feel like a green-thumbed architect. You plant, grow, and collect sunlight while competing to create the thriving forest of your dreams. It’s all about smart planning and absorbing sunshine faster than your friends can say ‘photosynthesis.’ Not only is it fun, but it’s educational, too. You learn how trees compete for sunlight!

3 Ecos: First Continent

Ecos: First Continent cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 2-6
  • Play Time: 45-75 minutes

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Ecos: First Continent is a strategic and environmental board game that challenges players to shape a new world, making it a great alternative to Brew.

2 Planet

Planet cover

  • Age Range: 8+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 30-45 minutes

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Planet offers a fun twist to environmental board games by letting you build your very own 3D mini-world. Choose wisely—add oceans, mountains, and forests to create a thriving ecosystem. It’s mind-blowing to see how adding just a mountain or two influences wildlife. Plus, we love the tactile feel of handling our planet, making it feel like you’re a real creator.

1 Terraforming Mars

Terraforming Mars cover

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Players: 1-5
  • Play Time: 120 minutes

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Taking the top spot is Terraforming Mars. Oh boy, this game is like global warming, but fun and on Mars! Your challenge? Convert the red planet into a green habitat and survive while doing so. The strategy is deep and rewarding, and every game feels unique. The environmental theme makes us care about our plays. It’s epic environmental fun, with a sprinkle of sci-fi!

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.