Best 9 Memory Board Games to Play in 2024

Looking for memory-themed board games? We played and loved 'Forbidden Desert,' where teamwork and memory go hand in hand.
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Memory coverCinnamon cover

9 Best Memory-Based Board Games You Need to Try Now

On this list:

9 Memory

Memory cover

  • Age Range: 3+
  • Players: 2-6
  • Play Time: 15-20 minutes

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This is the classic memory game that many of us grew up with. It’s simple, fun, and great for kids. You flip cards, try to match pairs, and see who has the best memory. It’s easy to learn and perfect for family game nights. Plus, it’s a great way to improve concentration.

8 Memoir ’44

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

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Memoir ’44 puts a unique twist on a memory-themed game by combining it with historical strategy. The game is set during WWII, and players must remember unit positions and strategies of their opponents. It’s a blend of history and memory, making it a thrilling game for older players.

7 Cinnamon

Cinnamon cover

  • Age Range: 6+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 30 minutes

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Cinnamon draws players into an enchanting world where memory skills are essential. Players must remember ingredient locations to brew magical potions. The artwork is beautiful, and the gameplay is both challenging and rewarding. It’s a great blend of memory, strategy, and a bit of luck.

6 Memo…Arrr!

Memo...Arrr! cover

  • Age Range: 6+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 15 minutes

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Get ready for a pirate adventure with Memo…Arrr! In this game, players use their memory to match pirate treasures while avoiding the cursed ones. The pirate theme is light-hearted and fun, making it a hit with kids and families. It’s a memory game with a splash of excitement!

5 Ice Cool

Ice Cool cover

  • Age Range: 6+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 20 minutes

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Ice Cool combines memory with dexterity. Players flick penguins around a school to catch fish and avoid getting tagged by the hall monitor. Remembering which doors and paths lead to the best routes adds a fun memory twist. It’s both hilarious and competitive!

4 Stuffed Fables

Stuffed Fables cover

  • Age Range: 7+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 60-90 minutes

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In Stuffed Fables, players take on the roles of brave stuffed animals protecting a child from nightmares. Remembering story elements and game mechanics is key. The game’s narrative-driven experience and cooperative gameplay make it special and memorable.

3 Mysterium

Mysterium cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 2-7
  • Play Time: 42 minutes

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Mysterium offers a cooperative experience where players work as psychics to solve the mystery of a haunted mansion. Remembering clues and interpreting visions are essential. The game is beautifully illustrated and offers a unique, immersive experience for anyone who loves a good mystery.

2 The Mind

The Mind cover

  • Age Range: 8+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 15-20 minutes

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The Mind is a simple yet challenging game where players must play cards in ascending order without speaking. Remembering the sequence of cards and synchronizing with others is crucial. The game builds tension and unity, creating a memorable experience each time.

1 Forbidden Desert

Forbidden Desert cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 2-5
  • Play Time: 45 minutes

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We saved the best for last! Forbidden Desert is a cooperative game that requires players to remember the locations of critical equipment and water. The game’s theme, teamwork, and memory elements make it a standout. Your group will feel like real adventurers facing the scorching desert together.

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.