Board games aren’t just for kids. For several years, they have experienced real growth among adults, offering social, intellectual and fun experiences. Whether you are looking for a moment of relaxation with friends, a strategic competition or an activity to share as a couple, there is a wide variety of games to meet all your expectations.
1. Strategy games : for tactical minds
Strategy games, often considered timeless classics, are ideal for players who enjoy brainstorming and intellectual challenges. They often require careful planning, resource management, and an ability to anticipate the actions of other players.
Catan
Released in 1995 and created by Klaus Teuber, Catan (formerly known as The Settlers of Catan) is a must-have in the world of strategy games. Players must develop their civilization on the island of Catan by harvesting and trading resources such as wood, brick, wool, and wheat.
Why it’s great for adults : Catan combines resource management and negotiation between players, making it an excellent strategy game while promoting social interactions. Each game is different thanks to the modular board, and the available expansions increase replayability.
Terraforming Mars
In Terraforming Mars, each player embodies a corporation that must transform the planet Mars into a habitable environment. To do this, they must manage resources, build infrastructure and improve living conditions on the red planet.
Why it is an ideal game : Terraforming Mars is complex and strategic, but offers incredible depth with dozens of possible strategies. The games are long but immersive, and the game is enriched by cards with varied effects which allow you to modify the dynamics of the game with each game.
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Scythe
In an alternate universe of post-WWI Russia, players control factions seeking to expand their influence across a fictional European map. They must collect resources, build war machines (“Mechs”) and conquer territories to become the dominant nation.
Why choose it : Scythe is a game that combines resource management with tactical combat. It is particularly appreciated for its well-balanced rules which allow many different strategies to be played. With gorgeous artwork and remarkable gameplay depth, Scythe is a top choice for fans of complex games.
2. Bluffing and deduction games : for fans of suspense
Bluffing and deduction games are perfect for those who enjoy manipulating, deceiving, or uncovering the lies of others. They often require communication and psychology skills to influence or decipher other players.
The Resistance : Avalon
In The Resistance: Avalon, two secret teams clash: the knights loyal to King Arthur and the minions of Mordred. The goal is to accomplish missions while hiding your real identity, because only members of the Resistance know who the traitors are.
Why it’s a great game : This game of bluff and deduction is captivating because it relies almost entirely on interactions between players. It requires strategic communication, an ability to convince others and to remain calm even when you are a traitor. An ideal game for evenings where tension and suspense are at their peak.
Coup
Coup is a fast and minimalist bluff game where each player has two cards representing influential characters. The objective is to manipulate, lie and eliminate other players to be the last one standing.
Why it’s a popular choice : The game is short, intense and relies heavily on psychology and the ability to read others. Plus, the rules are simple, making it a great game for parties where you’re looking for something quick but thrilling.
Secret Hitler
Set in 1930s Germany, Secret Hitler puts players in the shoes of liberals or fascists, with one secret player being Adolf Hitler. The liberals’ goal is to find out who Hitler is and prevent him from taking power, while the fascists must deceive the liberals to achieve this.
Why this game is a sensation : Secret Hitler is a hidden role-playing game that generates incredible tension. With heated discussions, temporary alliances and constant suspicions, each game is a true psychological thriller. It’s a game that encourages fiery debates and daring betrayals.
3. Cooperative games : for those who prefer to work together
Unlike competitive games, cooperative games require players to work together to beat the game itself. These games are perfect for those who prefer collaboration rather than confrontation.
Pandemic
In Pandemic, players take on the role of global health specialists trying to stem the spread of several deadly diseases across the globe. They must work together to develop cures before epidemics spiral out of control.
Why it is essential : Pandemic is an iconic game in the cooperative genre. It is thrilling, because each decision can change the course of the game, and the build-up in tension is often dramatic. In addition, the different expansions offer new mechanics and challenges for experienced players.
Horror in Arkham
Based on the horror universe of H.P. Lovecraft, Arkham Horror is a game where players must investigate supernatural events and face nightmarish creatures. The game is rich in narrative and highlights the exploration of a city haunted by evil forces.
Why it’s a good choice : This cooperative game emphasizes atmosphere, immersion and storytelling. The randomness of encounters and events makes each game unique, and players must constantly adapt their strategies to survive the horrors around them. Perfect for fans of scary stories and mysteries.
4. Party and party games : for lively evenings
Sometimes you just want to relax with a light game that emphasizes laughter and social interaction. Party games are often quick, easy to learn, and perfect for livening up an evening.
Dixit
Dixit is a creative card game where each player must make others guess a card based on an enigmatic phrase. The poetic and abstract illustrations of the cards stimulate the imagination and dialogue between players.
Why it’s great for parties : This game calls for creativity and personal interpretation, which often leads to funny discussions and unexpected moments. It is accessible to everyone, even non-players, and is particularly appreciated for its artistic and contemplative side.
Time’s Up
In Time’s Up, players must guess famous personalities by going through three phases: first a complete description, then a single word, and finally a simple imitation. The game is fast, fun and generates lots of laughs.
Why it’s a holiday favorite : Time’s Up is a great game for large crowds. It promotes energy, humor and rapid communication. Additionally, the progressive limitation of means of communication increases tension and excitement as the game progresses.
Blanc-Manger Coco
Blanc-Manger Coco is a card game where players must complete blank sentences with often absurd, offbeat or even provocative propositions. The goal is to create associations that will make others laugh.
Why it’s a hit : This humor game is simple and effective for relaxing an evening. The cards often bring hilarious and unexpected combinations, and the content is intentionally irreverent, which will appeal to adults with a quirky sense of humor.
Whether you’re looking for a complex strategy game, an intense bluff game or a light party game, the adult board game market is full of gems. Each game type offers unique experiences, ranging from friendly cooperation to fierce competition. Choose now the best game for your evenings with friends or with family and find out which ones will become your favorites!
