Top 5 Best Survival Board Games of 2024 Reviewed

Discover the top survival board games. Perfect blend of strategy, teamwork, and fun. Ideal for gamers looking for a thrilling challenge.
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Arctic Scavengers coverDead of Winter coverRobinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island cover

Hey folks, welcome to our rundown of the top 5 ‘survival’ themed board games that’ll have you clutching your dice for dear life! When we hunted down games for this list, we looked for ones that really nail the survival vibe. We wanted games that make you feel the chill of the Arctic, the dread of a zombie apocalypse, the desperation of being stranded, or the thrill of exploring uncharted territories. Each pick here not only tests your survival skills but also tells a gripping story that’ll keep you and your pals glued to the table. So, grab your survival kit, we’re going on an adventure!

On this list:

5 Arctic Scavengers

Arctic Scavengers cover

  • Age Range: 13+
  • Players: 2-5
  • Play Time: 30-60 minutes

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Kicking off our survival extravaganza is Arctic Scavengers. This game plunges you into a frosty future where resources are scarce and it’s every tribe for themselves. We had a blast digging through the snow to find tools, medicine, and, yes, even mercenaries to join our cause. It’s not just about the survival of the fittest, but the smartest. Trading blows and resources with your friends keeps the tension high and the laughs rolling. It’s a chill way to start understanding the survival genre without getting frostbite.

4 Dead of Winter

Dead of Winter cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 2-5
  • Play Time: 60-120 minutes

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Dead of Winter has you and your pals trying to survive not just a cold, but a zombie apocalypse! The game’s a blast because every player has secret objectives. Sometimes, these can clash with the group’s goals, making every choice suspicious. It’s like, ‘Sure, Jeff, take all the food for your ‘family’.’ But the real kicker? The potential for a betrayer among us. This added layer of mistrust and the constant zombie threat keeps everyone on their toes. It’s the perfect mix of survival and deceit.

3 Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island

Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island cover

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

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

This game is an epic tale of survival. Stranded on a deserted island, you and your friends face beasts, weather, and even your own minds. The scenarios are wildly varied, keeping the game fresh every time we played. And oh boy, did we play a lot! It’s a game that demands cooperation and smarts to survive. Every decision feels weighty, and when you finally succeed, it’s like you’ve really conquered an island. A must-play for those who love a good survival challenge.

2 The 7th Continent

The 7th Continent cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1-4
  • Play Time: 5-1000 minutes

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Imagine being cursed and stuck on an ever-changing continent. That’s The 7th Continent for ya. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure on steroids. We couldn’t get enough of exploring, solving riddles, and overcoming curses. It’s like the game knows just how to keep you on edge. The best part? You can save your game and come back, making it a grand, unfolding adventure. For those who want a deep dive into survival with a side of mystery, this is your jam.

1 Pandemic Legacy: Season 1

Pandemic Legacy: Season 1 cover

  • Age Range: 13+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 60 minutes

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Here’s why this is the best: Pandemic Legacy: Season 1 isn’t just about survival; it’s about how your actions shape the world. Each game changes the board forever. We found ourselves truly caring about the cities we saved (or didn’t). The story unfolds in a way that kept us coming back for more, eager to see the consequences of our choices. It’s a thrilling, emotional roller coaster. If you want a game that combines survival with deep, impactful storytelling, this is the top pick.

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.