12 Best Narrative Board Games Reviewed: 2024 Edition
12 Best Narrative-Based Board Games
On this list:
12 Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is an epic tale in a box. You and your buddies become mercenaries exploring a dark world. The choices you make shape the story. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book but on steroids! The game has loads of replay value and can keep you busy for months.
11 Pandemic Legacy: Season 1
This one’s a nail-biter. As you fight diseases, the game evolves and your decisions carry over to future games. It’s like watching a blockbuster movie unfold every time you play. Plus, you can play it with just a couple of friends and it will still be exciting.
10 Dead of Winter
If you like zombies and survival scenarios, you’ll love Dead of Winter. This game forces players to work together but keeps you on the edge of your seat with hidden objectives. The narrative changes based on your choices and actions, making every game unique.
9 Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective
Ever wanted to be Sherlock Holmes? Now’s your chance! This game has you solving crimes by reading newspapers, following clues, and interviewing suspects. It’s perfect for those who love a good mystery and being part of a narrative-driven game.
8 Mansions of Madness: Second Edition
Mansions of Madness is a horror game where an app helps drive the story. You and your friends must solve puzzles, fight monsters, and explore creepy mansions. It’s always creepy and keeps you guessing. The app adds a lot to the narrative experience.
7 Arkham Horror: The Card Game
This is a living card game set in the same universe as Mansions of Madness. Each campaign is like a short story that you play through. Choices matter, so think carefully before you act. Plus, the expansions add even more narratives!
6 Legacy of Dragonholt
If you love RPGs but hate long setups, this is for you. It’s a narrative game where you explore a fantasy world, make decisions, and complete quests. It’s like a mini RPG that you can play without a Dungeon Master.
5 T.I.M.E Stories
This game has you traveling through time to fix anomalies. It’s like Quantum Leap but with dice. Each scenario is like a new chapter in an ongoing story. You can redo missions to get a better outcome, making replaying it fun.
4 Journeys in Middle-Earth
Set in Tolkien’s world, this game lets you be a hero from The Lord of the Rings. The app drives the story, and your choices change the narrative. It’s an epic journey filled with familiar faces and new adventures.
3 Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game
Ever felt like cracking a case with modern tools? This game is for you. Use clues, the internet, and deduction to solve crimes. It’s like being in a modern crime drama, and each case builds on the narrative.
2 Near and Far
Near and Far combines a map exploration game with a storybook. You move your character around the board and read the story that comes up. Choices you make have lasting impacts. It’s a beautiful mix of storytelling and strategy.
1 7th Continent
We saved the best for last! 7th Continent is like being in an endless adventure book. You explore, survive, and uncover the mysteries of the continent. It’s the best narrative game because of its depth and replay value. Every adventure is different, making each game fresh and exciting.
