Board games
Products
Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is a cooperative tactical board game where players take on the roles of mercenaries exploring a fantasy world filled with twists and turns. Each player chooses their character class, each with unique abilities and progression paths, leading to a rich world filled with scenarios that evolve over time based on player decisions. The game includes an intricate campaign that features tactical combat, character development, and a story that unfolds with every session. With an engaging mix of strategy and decision-making, Gloomhaven has established itself as a modern classic among board games, often hailed as one of the best games of all time. The deep gameplay requires strategic thought and collaboration, making it a perfect choice for players who enjoy immersive experiences that they can play over multiple sessions. With its extensive content and replayability, Gloomhaven provides hours of entertainment for fans of role-playing games and strategy alike.
Specifications:
- 1-4 Players
- 60-120 Minutes Playtime
- Age 14+
- Cooperative Gameplay
- Fantasy Theme
- Rich Storyline
Pros:
- Deep Strategic Gameplay
- Rich Character Development
- Immersive Story and Worldbuilding
- Highly Replayable
- Cooperative and Competitive Elements
Cons:
- High Price Point
- Steep Learning Curve
- Long Setup and Playtime
- Requires Significant Commitment
Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is a standalone, entry-level campaign set in the acclaimed Gloomhaven universe, known for its rich storytelling and deep tactical gameplay. This edition brings simplified rules and a more accessible campaign format, perfect for newcomers. Players embark on their adventure with a mix of strategic combat and cooperative decision-making in a fantasy world filled with various monsters, traps, and challenges. The game features a unique scenario book, which replaces map tiles, creating an easier setup and flow, allowing players to dive into the game without the previously necessary extensive preparation. With a host of characters, each with their own abilities and progression paths, Jaws of the Lion retains the thrilling essence of Gloomhaven but streamlines the experience for quicker playthroughs and less complexity. Whether you are a veteran or a first-timer, this game guarantees immersive fun and strategic depth, making group gameplay engaging and fulfilling.
Specifications:
- Players: 1-4
- Playtime: 30 to 120 minutes
- Age: 14+
- Standalone game with campaign mode
- Simplified rules compared to the original Gloomhaven
Pros:
- Accessible for new players
- Rich storytelling and immersive world
- Streamlined gameplay reduces setup time
- Variety of characters and scenarios
- Retains the depth of strategy
Cons:
- Limited compared to the original's content
- Some components may feel lacking in quality
- Not suitable for solo players without modifications
Horrified
Horrified is a cooperative board game that brings iconic Universal Monsters to life as players work together to thwart their sinister plans. This game stands out due to its immersive theme, where players assume the roles of classic movie characters, each with unique abilities, confronting famous monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Mummy. The objective is to defeat the monsters by completing challenges and utilizing the unique powers given to each character strategically. The game is designed for 1 to 5 players, making it a versatile choice for both family game nights and larger gatherings. The artwork is stunningly designed, and the components are of high quality, ensuring a rich gaming experience. With a playtime that ranges from 60 to 90 minutes, it offers engaging gameplay that keeps everyone involved until the end. Overall, Horrified blends nostalgia and thrill, catering to board game enthusiasts and lovers of horror alike, making it a must-have addition to any game collection.
Specifications:
- Players: 1-5
- Playtime: 60-90 minutes
- Ages: 12 and up
- Genre: Cooperative, Horror, Strategy
Pros:
- Immersive gameplay experience
- Engaging cooperation among players
- High-quality components and artwork
- Variety of characters and monsters to face
Cons:
- Learning curve for new players
- Can become repetitive after multiple plays
- Requires strategic thinking
Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a highly acclaimed tile-placement board game that brings a unique blend of strategy and spontaneity to your gaming table. Players take turns drawing tiles and placing them to build cities, roads, and fields in the southern French landscape. The game emphasizes tactical skills as players score points by completing features with their tiles or strategically placing their followers, known as 'meeples,' to claim ownership over cities, roads, and fields. With its simple yet deep gameplay, Carcassonne is accessible to newcomers yet offers enough complexity to satisfy seasoned gamers. The expansions available further enhance replayability, introducing new mechanics and strategic layers for players to explore. A delightful combination of calm determination and competitive spirit, Carcassonne is perfect for family game nights, gatherings with friends, or as a gateway game for those new to the hobby.
Specifications:
- For 2-5 players
- Playtime: 35-40 minutes
- Ages: 7 and up
- Includes 72 tiles and 40 meeples
Pros:
- Great for both family and strategic gameplay
- Easy to learn and teach
- High replay value with expansions
- Beautiful artwork and components
Cons:
- Some players may find it less engaging at lower player counts
- The expansions can increase complexity and length of game time
Scythe
Scythe is a strategy board game set in an alternate-history 1920s Europe that combines resource management, area control, and power gameplay, making every session a unique and engaging experience. Players take on the role of faction leaders, each with unique abilities and goals, as they explore a beautifully illustrated map to gather resources, upgrade their board, and complete objectives. The game is lauded for its stunning artwork and components, high-quality miniatures, and an immersive theme that allows players to build their empires through conquest or diplomacy. Strategy is essential as you must carefully balance your actions between combat, economic growth, and technology unlocks. A distinctive element is the popularity tracking mechanism, which influences the game's scoring and endgame dynamics, adding depth to decision-making. Scythe supports up to seven players and can take considerable time to play, thus making it ideal for dedicated board game nights where players can fully engage and strategize. Its unique blend of mechanics and themes has earned it a loyal fan base, garnering numerous accolades in the board gaming community.
Specifications:
- Players: 1-7
- Playtime: 90-120 minutes
- Recommended Age: 14+
- Epic Strategy Theme
- High-Quality Components
Pros:
- Engaging strategy and gameplay depth
- High replayability with variable player powers
- Stunning artwork and components
- Allows for solo play
- Easy to learn but hard to master
Cons:
- Long playtime may not be suitable for all players
- Complexity may overwhelm newcomers
- Setup time can be lengthy
- Potential for player elimination
- Can be pricey depending on expansions
Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a beautifully crafted board game that has gained worldwide acclaim for its easy-to-learn rules and engaging gameplay. Players take on the role of train barons, competing to build railways and connect cities across the map. The game can be played by 2 to 5 players and offers a great balance of strategy and luck. The objective is to claim routes to score points, with longer routes providing greater rewards. Ticket to Ride shines with its stunning artwork, high-quality components, and thematic gameplay, making the experience enjoyable for both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike. One of the game's standout features is its variant maps available for purchase, which introduce new strategies and challenges. The simple mechanics allow for strategic planning without overwhelming complexity, making it suitable for players of different ages. Additionally, expansions and spin-offs, like Ticket to Ride: Europe, further enhance the gameplay experience. Overall, this game is a staple in the board gaming community, ideal for family game nights or friendly gatherings, as it combines competition with a light-hearted atmosphere.
Specifications:
- Players: 2-5
- Playtime: 30-60 minutes
- Ages: 8+
- Game Type: Strategy, Family
- Mechanics: Route Building, Set Collection
Pros:
- Easy to learn and play
- Engaging gameplay
- Beautiful artwork and components
- Strategic depth without being overwhelming
- Highly replayable due to variable maps
Cons:
- May feel repetitive after several plays
- Limited to the board game format
- Not suitable for players who prefer deeper strategy games
Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars is a strategy board game designed by Jacob Fryxelius. Set on the red planet, players take on the roles of corporations working towards transforming Mars into a habitable environment. The gameplay integrates card drafting and resource management mechanics, with players strategically deploying tiles to build cities, raise oceans, and create greenery. Each turn offers players the opportunity to invest in various projects that influence Mars’s environment: increasing temperature, creating oceans, and growing forests. The game is renowned for its depth, inviting players to explore numerous strategies to succeed in their corporations’ goals. Terraforming Mars is perfect for game nights, allowing for 1-5 players, with a typical playtime of 120 minutes. With expansions available, the replayability is significantly enhanced. Its engaging mechanics and thematic depth offer an experience that appeals to both casual gamers and hardcore strategists.
Specifications:
- Players: 1-5
- Playing Time: 120 minutes
- Age: 12+
- Designer: Jacob Fryxelius
- Publisher: Stronghold Games
- Game Type: Strategy, Resource Management, Card Drafting
Pros:
- Deep strategic gameplay
- High replayability with expansions
- Engaging theme and mechanics
- Suitable for multiple player counts
- Promotes critical thinking and planning
Cons:
- Complex for new players
- Long playtime may deter casual gamers
- Randomness can affect strategies
Pandemic
Pandemic is a highly engaging cooperative board game designed for 2 to 4 players that redefines group strategy gaming. In this game, players take on the roles of members of a disease control team, working together to stop the spread of viruses across the globe. The game board represents a world map where outbreaks emerge, and players must travel, share knowledge, and find cures before it's too late. The unique twist lies in the collaborative gameplay; rather than competing against one another, players must strategize collectively and make decisions that affect the entire team. The game’s thematic elements are both educational and exciting, exposing players to real-world concepts of public health and disease control while keeping the experience full of tension and challenge. Each playthrough can differ significantly due to dynamic game mechanics and variabilities in player roles, ensuring high replay value. If you enjoy teamwork and strategy, Pandemic is a must-have addition to your board game collection.
Specifications:
- Players: 2-4
- Recommended Age: 8+
- Playing Time: 45 minutes
- Categories: Cooperative, Strategy, Thematic
Pros:
- Encourages teamwork and collaboration
- High replayability due to varying board states
- Educational elements related to disease control
- Engaging and suspenseful gameplay
Cons:
- Can be challenging for new players
- Game length may be longer than expected
- Requires more setup time compared to simple games
Catan
Catan is a highly strategic board game that blends resource management with player interaction, making each session unique and engaging. Designed for 3 to 4 players, this game invites players to settle, build, and trade resources to expand their territories on a diverse island landscape. The board's modularity ensures that no two games are ever alike, introducing a refreshing twist to every new session. Players must cleverly negotiate trades, balance resource acquisition, and develop their settlements into cities while competing for victory points. The game also incorporates elements of luck with dice rolls that determine resource production but rewards strategy and foresight. Catan fosters a lively atmosphere—perfect for family game nights or gatherings with friends. Whether you are a seasoned board gamer or a newcomer, Catan offers a deep, strategic experience that is both accessible and rewarding, making it a staple in modern board gaming.
Specifications:
- Player Count: 3-4 (up to 6 with extensions)
- Recommended Age: 10+
- Playing Time: 60-90 minutes
- Components: Game board, resource cards, development cards, dice, tokens, roads, settlements, cities, and rules booklet
Pros:
- Highly engaging and interactive gameplay
- Strategically rich with a good mix of luck and skill
- Excellent replayability due to modular board design
- Encourages negotiation and trade among players
Cons:
- Can become competitive and confrontational
- Learning curve for beginners might be steep
- Game length can vary based on player experience
- Limited player count without expansions
Wingspan Board Game
Wingspan is a beautifully crafted board game that places players in the role of bird enthusiasts, tasked with attracting the best birds to their wildlife preserves. With over 170 unique bird cards, each accompanied by stunning artwork and interesting facts, the game combines strategic planning with the appreciation of nature. Players use food tokens to attract birds, lay eggs, and manage their ecosystems, all while earning points based on their bird collections. The game has a peaceful, educational vibe and offers varied strategies with three distinct habitats that create layered gameplay experiences. The production quality is top-notch, making it a feast for the eyes and an engaging challenge for the mind. Suitable for 1-5 players, with a playtime of about 40-70 minutes, Wingspan is designed for both casual and serious gamers, making it a great addition to any game night.
Specifications:
- Players: 1-5
- Playtime: 40-70 minutes
- Ages: 14+
- Theme: Birds, Nature, Ecosystem
- Designer: Elizabeth Hargrave
- Publisher: Stonemaier Games
- Components: Bird cards, food tokens, egg tokens, player boards
Pros:
- Exceptional artwork and design
- Educational content about birds
- Varied strategies and gameplay
- Can be played solo
- Beautifully crafted components
Cons:
- Complexity may deter casual gamers
- Setup time can be lengthy
- Relatively higher price point
Cthulhu: Death May Die
Cthulhu: Death May Die is an exciting cooperative board game that immerses players into the haunting universe of H.P. Lovecraft. Designed by Eric M. Lang, the game challenges 1 to 5 players to battle against the Great Old Ones, trying to prevent their awakening while unraveling mysteries along the way. Each session is packed with suspense, requiring players to work together while making critical decisions based on their unique characters' abilities. The gameplay features modular storylines and scenarios that keep the experience fresh, along with intricate miniatures that add to the visual appeal. The balance of tension and strategy demands both skill and teamwork, offering a thrilling adventure for fans of horror and strategy games alike. It also includes expansions that add further depth and replayability, catering to both new players and seasoned veterans of board gaming.
Specifications:
- Players: 1-5
- Playtime: 90-120 minutes
- Recommended Age: 14+
- Mechanics: Cooperative, Story-driven, Miniature-Based
- Theme: Lovecraftian Horror, Adventure
Pros:
- Immersive and thematic gameplay
- High-quality miniatures and components
- Replayability due to modular scenarios
- Encourages teamwork and strategy
- Accessible to both new and experienced players
Cons:
- Steep learning curve for new players
- Game length may be intimidating for some
- Can become complex with expansions
- Limited solo experience compared to multiplayer
Mansions of Madness
Mansions of Madness is a cooperative, story-driven board game set in the Lovecraftian universe, offering players a deeply immersive experience filled with horror and mystery. Designed for one to five players, this game allows players to take on the role of investigators exploring a haunted mansion, uncovering clues, solving riddles, and facing terrifying eldritch creatures. The game features a digital companion app that manages the game flow, provides environmental sounds, and offers various scenarios. Each game session is unique due to the variable tokens and tiles, ensuring that players encounter new challenges in every game. The strategic elements combined with interactive storytelling engage players and foster teamwork as they navigate through several scenarios that unfold based on their decisions. Whether you enjoy deep narratives or intense cooperative gameplay, Mansions of Madness is a must-try for board game enthusiasts.
Specifications:
- Players: 1-5
- Playing Time: 120-180 minutes
- Recommended Age: 14+
- Theme: Horror, Mystery, Lovecraftian
- Includes game boards, tokens, scenario cards, and a digital companion app
Pros:
- Intricate storytelling and atmospheric gameplay
- High replayability with multiple scenarios and outcomes
- Incorporates an app for enhanced game dynamics
- Beautifully designed components and artwork
- Encourages teamwork and strategic thinking
Cons:
- Can be complex for new players
- Lengthy game sessions may not suit all gamers
- Requires a device to run the companion app
- Setup can be time-consuming
- Not ideal for solo play unless intended
7 Wonders
7 Wonders is a highly acclaimed card drafting game that challenges players to build civilizations by gathering resources, developing structures, and advancing their military power. Designed for 3 to 7 players, the game is known for its strategic depth and quick gameplay, typically lasting around 30 minutes per session. Each player builds their own civilization over three ages, utilizing cards that represent various structures, resources, and wonders, which are crucial for scoring points. Players must think critically, as they can acquire resources from neighbors while balancing their military strength and scientific advancements. The game's multiple paths to victory encourages replayability, making every session unique. Its elegant mechanics allow for simultaneous action, reducing downtime, while the stunning artwork and thematic elements enhance the overall experience. 7 Wonders has secure its spot as a staple in modern board gaming, appealing to both casual gamers and seasoned players alike.
Specifications:
- Players: 3-7
- Playtime: 30 minutes
- Ages: 13+
- Mechanics: Card drafting, resource management
- Includes: 7 Wonder boards, cards, tokens
Pros:
- Fast-paced gameplay
- High replayability due to different strategies
- Engaging for multiple players
- Elegant design and artwork
- Simplicity in learning rules
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for new players
- Requires a good understanding of strategy
- Scaling player count can introduce some imbalances
Dead of Winter
Dead of Winter is a gripping, semi-cooperative board game that brilliantly captures the essence of survival in a post-apocalyptic world. Set in a harsh winter environment, players must work together to survive while also coping with personal objectives that may clash with the group's goals. Each turn poses tough choices as players must rescue survivors, gather supplies, and fend off zombie attacks while attempting to ensure the colony stays alive. The game is enhanced by a unique Crossroads system which introduces narrative-driven events that can dramatically change the course of the game, adding depth and replayability. The atmosphere is further enriched by high-quality components and artwork that transports players to a chilling yet fascinating setting. The balance between cooperation and betrayal, along with the looming threat of external dangers, keeps players on the edge of their seats, making for an engaging gaming experience.
Specifications:
- Players: 2-5
- Playtime: 60-120 minutes
- Ages: 14+
- Genre: Semi-Cooperative, Survival, Strategy
- Components: 9 Character cards, 1 38mm zombie miniatures, 4 dice, various cards, and tokens.
Pros:
- Engaging and immersive atmosphere
- Unique Crossroads system enhances replayability
- High-quality components and artwork
- Encourages strategic thinking and teamwork
- Provides a mix of cooperation and competition
Cons:
- Can have a steep learning curve for new players
- Game length may be long for some
- Player elimination can occur, impacting enjoyment
- Requires significant space and setup time
The Walking Dead: All Out War
The Walking Dead: All Out War is a thrilling miniatures game that immerses players in a post-apocalyptic world filled with zombies, moral dilemmas, and intense tactical battles. Designed for 2 or more players, this game is set in the universe of the popular comic series and allows players to lead their own factions as they fight to survive. The gameplay encourages strategic thinking as players must balance resource management, character development, and combat with rival factions and the zombie horde. The components include detailed miniatures, high-quality game boards, and engaging scenarios that enhance the immersive experience. Each game explores the ethical challenges faced by survivors, making players question their choices and alliances. The mix of cooperative and competitive gameplay creates a dynamic environment that leads to unpredictable outcomes. Great for fans of the series and newcomers alike, All Out War is celebrated for its depth and replayability, providing hours of engaging gameplay while fans explore the gritty realities of survival. Its accessibility and layered strategy ensure it remains a favorite among tabletop enthusiasts.
Specifications:
- 2 or more players
- Suitable for ages 13+
- Game duration: 90-120 minutes
- Contains miniatures and game boards
- Strategic resource management
Pros:
- Highly thematic and immersive
- Great miniatures and artwork
- Offers deep strategy and replayability
- Ethical decision-making elements add depth
Cons:
- Setup can be time-consuming
- May require multiple expansions for full experience
- Not ideal for casual gamers
Eldritch Horror
Eldritch Horror is an immersive cooperative board game that plunges players into a world teeming with cosmic horrors and mystery inspired by H.P. Lovecraft’s works. Set against the backdrop of the 1920s, players embody unique investigators who must work together to combat the encroaching darkness and thwart the ancient ones that threaten humanity. Each game unfolds with a sense of impending doom, as players travel the globe, gather clues, and battle otherworldly terrors. With a mixture of exploration, combat, and problem-solving, Eldritch Horror skillfully combines storytelling with strategic gameplay, allowing for a monumental adventure filled with twists and turns. The game is highly replayable thanks to a variety of scenarios, ancient ones, and investigator abilities, ensuring that no two sessions ever feel the same. Eldritch Horror is not only a test of wits and teamwork but also a thrilling journey into the unknown, letting fans of Lovecraftian horror find camaraderie within shared fears.
Specifications:
- Players: 1-8
- Playtime: 2-4 hours
- Recommended Age: 14+
- Genre: Cooperative, Horror
- Designer: Corey Konieczka
- Publisher: Fantasy Flight Games
Pros:
- Highly thematic and immersive experience
- Rich storytelling elements
- Variety in gameplay scenarios and characters
- Strong cooperative mechanics
- Beautiful artwork and components
Cons:
- Can be lengthy, requiring considerable time commitment
- Steep learning curve for new players
- Setup can be time-consuming
- Game can feel overwhelming with large groups
Zombie Dice
Zombie Dice is an exciting and fast-paced push-your-luck game perfect for players of all ages. Designed by notable game creator Steve Jackson, this game provides a fresh take on the zombie genre as players take on the role of zombies trying to munch on brains while avoiding shotgun blasts from humans. The game consists of 13 dice, each representing different possibilities: green dice for easy meals, yellow for a bit of a challenge, and red for the toughest bites. Players take turns rolling these dice to collect brains, but they must be cautious, as rolling shotguns means those moves could be the end of their spree. With quick gameplay that typically lasts around 10-20 minutes, Zombie Dice is an ideal choice for family game nights, parties, or casual gatherings. Its simple rules make it highly accessible for players of varying experience levels. With its engaging theme and lighthearted approach, Zombie Dice guarantees countless hours of fun and laughter.
Specifications:
- Players: 2-99
- Playtime: 10-20 minutes
- Ages: 10 and up
- Includes 13 custom dice and dice cup
Pros:
- Easy to learn and play
- Fast-paced and engaging gameplay
- Suitable for all ages
- Compact and portable for travel
- Encourages laughter and interaction
Cons:
- Can become repetitive after multiple plays
- May not appeal to hardcore strategy gamers
- Luck-based rather than skill-based
Betrayal at House on the Hill
Betrayal at House on the Hill is a thrilling cooperative board game that blends exploration, strategy, and storytelling. Designed by Bruce Glassco, this game features modular board tiles that create a unique house layout each time you play, ensuring that no two games are alike. Players take on the roles of various characters who explore the haunted mansion, discovering rooms, items, and events that add to the suspense. The game’s mechanics allow for a rich narrative experience, where players must work together until one of them triggers the 'Haunt' — a pivotal moment that shifts the gameplay significantly. This transition transforms the game into a tense showdown, where the betrayer’s goal diverges from that of the other players. The combination of richly detailed components, thematic elements, and replayability makes Betrayal at House on the Hill a favorite among enthusiasts of horror and adventure games. It’s best enjoyed with a group, especially with friends who appreciate strategic gameplay with a touch of mystery and betrayal.
Specifications:
- Players: 3-6
- Game Duration: 60-120 minutes
- Recommended Age: 12+
- Genre: Strategy, Horror, Adventure
- Components: Modular board tiles, character figures, cards, and tokens.
Pros:
- Highly replayable due to modular board design
- Engaging storytelling and cooperative gameplay
- Intriguing horror themes with suspenseful moments
- Good quality components and artwork
Cons:
- Can be complex for new players
- Gameplay can be lengthy, especially with larger groups
- The Haunt mechanics may lead to imbalance in gameplay
- Atmosphere may be too intense for younger players