Are you finding yourself playing more board games lately? One positive of spending more evenings at home has been rediscovering family game night after dinner.
Last year we received the game pictured above as a gift, and we’ve played it countless times since. It’s easy to learn but still strategic and engaging, so everyone in our family loves it. If you’re hoping to add it to your collection, you may still be able to find it in time for the holidays.
Another family favorite is the game we call “the marble game” (also known as Aggravation). This has been part of our tradition for 25 years — a simple, timeless game we could play with our kids when they were very young. It remains a dependable dinner-table pastime that everyone can enjoy.
The game shown above is another go-to favorite. Like the others, it’s straightforward to pick up but offers plenty of strategic choices, which keeps it fun for players of different ages. It’s a great option for cozy family evenings.
My parents recently bought a wooden Scrabble board that doubles as a decorative piece in their living room. My mom especially likes that it looks nice displayed when it’s not in use. If you plan to leave a game out between sessions, the look matters as much as the play.
UPDATE 2021: Looking for more game suggestions? My daughter Courtney recorded an Amazon Live video showcasing additional family favorites, including newer card games that aren’t covered here. It’s a helpful resource if you want fresh ideas for game night.
Scroll the images below to see a few other games we enjoy.
Still searching for last-minute gifts? I have plenty of suggestions in my gift guides—perfect for finding something thoughtful and fun for the people you love.