Best Family Board Games 2024: Top 5 Must-Try Picks

We played 'Ticket to Ride' with the family. Simple rules, quick turns. Perfect for family game nights!
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Ticket to Ride coverCatan coverPandemic cover

5 Best Board Games for Family Fun

On this list:

5 Ticket to Ride

Ticket to Ride cover

  • Age Range: 8+
  • Players: 2-5
  • Play Time: 30-60 minutes

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Ticket to Ride is a fantastic game for family game nights. We love how easy it is to learn, yet it offers enough strategy to keep everyone engaged. The game brings out the competitive spirit in the best way possible, as we all race to complete our railroads. Plus, the colorful map and train cars make it visually appealing, even to younger family members. Nobody in our group could resist the charm of becoming a railroad tycoon!

4 Catan

Catan cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 3-4
  • Play Time: 60-120 minutes

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Catan is a classic that has become a staple in our family game sessions. The trading and building mechanics make it both challenging and fun. Everyone gets into the spirit of negotiating for resources, and it always leads to lively discussions and laughter. From kids to adults, everyone enjoys the sense of accomplishment when they build their first settlement or city.

3 Pandemic

Pandemic cover

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

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One of the best co-op games out there, Pandemic has become a hit in our family. The fact that we have to work together to save the world from deadly diseases adds a unique twist to our game nights. It’s intense, engaging, and teaches teamwork in a fun way. Everyone gets to play the hero, and the thrill of beating the game together is unmatched.

2 Dixit

Dixit cover

  • Age Range: 8+
  • Players: 3-6
  • Play Time: 30 minutes

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Dixit is a wonderful game for families with a creative streak. The game involves storytelling and imagination, which brings out the best in everyone. The illustrations on the cards are absolutely gorgeous and inspire some fantastic tales. We’ve had so many laughs over the wild and unexpected stories that come out during the game. It’s perfect for families who enjoy a blend of creativity and strategy.

1 Azul

Azul cover

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

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Azul takes the top spot on our list for its beautiful design and strategic depth. It’s the best family board game as it combines simplicity with engaging gameplay. The game involves drafting tiles to complete patterns, and the satisfaction of seeing your board come together is immense. Azul is both challenging and rewarding, making it a hit with everyone in the family, from kids to grandparents. It’s an absolute joy to play and quickly became our go-to game for family gatherings.

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.