Board games are a fantastic gift idea for those who want to disconnect from technology and spend quality time with loved ones. While classics like Monopoly and Scrabble are always great choices, there are plenty of new and unique board games out there that make excellent gifts. In this article, we have compiled a list of lesser-known games that will surely be a hit with friends and family this holiday season. From games with giant monsters to haunted mansions, there is something here for everyone.
One game that is perfect for fantasy RPG enthusiasts is Freelancers by Plaid Hat Games. This story-filled board game is like a choose-your-own-adventure version of Dungeons & Dragons. It comes with unique dice, magic spells, and murderous monsters. The best part is that there is no need for a game master, as the companion app handles all of the storytelling with voice narration and a soundtrack. This game is perfect for beginners and requires little to no prep.
If you know someone who is a Wordle savant and finds word puzzles a bit too easy, Fiction is the game for them. This game is similar to Wordle but with a twist – the clue-giver has to lie about one of the letters in the secret word. The other players have to work together to deduce the answer in ten guesses and two ten-minute time periods.
King of Tokyo is a beloved board game that is fun and welcoming for players of all ages. In this game, you play as giant Kaiju monsters destroying the city of Tokyo while battling other monsters for supremacy. You can choose to play as a variety of characters, including a kitty cyborg, a dinosaur, a penguin, a gorilla, a dragon, or an alien. Gameplay is easy and similar to Yahtzee – roll dice to gain special powers, inflict damage, score points, and heal.
Wavelength is a fun party game that challenges teams to be in sync – or on the same wavelength – as their own team members. The game includes a large plastic wheel contraption that resembles a speedometer. One person spins the wheel and then opens a viewing slot to see where the needle lands. They then draw a category card with binaries and give a clue that matches where the needle lands between the two extremes. The closer the team gets to the answer, the more points they score. This game is great for subjective clues that require teamwork and communication.
For fans of horror stories, Betrayal at the House on the Hill is a must-have game. Players explore a haunted mansion, uncovering its secrets and hidden rooms. At some point, one player will reveal themselves as a traitor, and the rest of the team must figure out how to beat their former ally. With 50 different haunting scenarios, this game is sure to provide countless fun and spooky evenings.
Clank! Catacombs is a game where players become treasure hunters exploring the catacombs of a skeletal dragon. From portals to shrines, ghosts to prisoners, and treasure to risk, this game offers plenty of adventure and excitement.
Ark Nova allows up to four players to compete against each other to plan and design the most successful zoo. Building enclosures, acquiring animal attractions, and supporting conservation projects are all part of the game. With over 125 unique animal cards, each game is different and offers endless possibilities.
Expeditions is a game where players compete against each other to explore a massive meteorite that crashed in a nearby river. They must navigate the terrain with large mechs, uncovering items, solving quests, and vanquishing corruption. This game is a sequel to the popular game Scythe but can be played without any prior knowledge of the original.
Marvel Dice Throne is a game designed for Marvel fans. Players choose one of eight famous characters and compete in battles, playing cards and rolling dice to thwart their opponents. Each character has unique abilities and can be upgraded over time. With quick gameplay, this game is perfect for Marvel enthusiasts.
Azul is a game inspired by Moorish decorative tiles. Players compete against each other to create beautiful tiled mosaics. Drafting colored tiles and strategically placing them on the board is key to scoring the most points. Easy to learn but challenging to master, this game is great for those who enjoy strategic puzzles.
Votes for Women is a historical game that covers the American women’s suffrage movement. Players can choose to either support or oppose the proposed 19th Amendment and work towards their respective goals. This game is perfect for history buffs who enjoy a challenge.
Wingspan is a game for nature enthusiasts or those who prefer non-nerdy themes. Players take on the role of bird enthusiasts aiming to discover and attract the best birds to their aviary. With beautiful artwork and strategic gameplay, this game is a perfect gateway into the world of board games.
In conclusion, there are plenty of unique and lesser-known board games that make excellent gifts. From fantasy RPG adventures to word puzzles, monster battles to haunted mansions, there is a game out there for everyone. This holiday season, consider giving the gift of board games and enjoy quality time with loved ones, disconnected from technology.
