7 best family board games for a better game night

TLDR

Start with Ticket to Ride for a full family game night. Pick Kingdomino when time is short.

Escape games

5 escape room board games to play at home

TLDR

Choose EXIT: The Abandoned Cabin for a small team and hands-on puzzles. Expect a one-time game. Pick a resettable box if you want to pass it on.

Card games

TLDR

Flip 7 is my pick for quick rounds and big reactions. Buy it if your group enjoys risk. Skip it if you want careful strategy to beat luck.

Party games

TLDR

Telestrations is a great pick for four to eight people who want shared laughs. Drawing skill is optional. A willing group is essential.

Pick the mood

Behind the picks

Bea Ellis · Editor

I write about games that give people a reason to gather. My picks favor clear rules, a good laugh, and a fair look at the tradeoffs.