10 Best Grown-Up Board Games for 2024: Top Picks for Adults

When it comes to enjoying a fun-filled evening with friends or family, nothing beats the excitement of sitting around a table and engaging in some of the best grown-up board games available on the market today. With different styles, mechanics, and themes, these games can cater to various interests and enhance your social gatherings. In 2024, we have curated a list of the top 10 best grown-up board games available on Amazon, ensuring you have plenty of options to choose from for your next game night.

# Preview Product Rating Price
1 Monolith Board Games: Tower Up - City Building Board Game, Competitive Strategy, Urban Construction Plannning, Family, Ages 8+, 2-4 Players, 30 Min Monolith Board Games: Tower Up - City Building Board Game, Competitive Strategy, Urban Construction... No ratings yet $49.99
2 WHAT DO YOU MEME? Block Up — Head to Head Strategic Stacking Game, Family Games for Kids and Adults, Games for Kids 8-12 by Relatable WHAT DO YOU MEME? Block Up — Head to Head Strategic Stacking Game, Family Games for Kids and... No ratings yet $17.99
3 Bamboozled - A Hilariously Fun Bluffing Dice & Card Game. Family-Friendly Party Game for Kids, Teens & Adults. Fast and Easy to Learn Bamboozled - A Hilariously Fun Bluffing Dice & Card Game. Family-Friendly Party Game for Kids, Teens... No ratings yet $19.99
4 Alderac Entertainment ALD05511 Smash Up! What Were We Thinking? Board Game Alderac Entertainment ALD05511 Smash Up! What Were We Thinking? Board Game No ratings yet $23.41
5 I should have known that! - A Trivia Game About Things You Oughta Know I should have known that! - A Trivia Game About Things You Oughta Know No ratings yet $19.34
6 Adult on Board: Travel Games for Grown-Ups Adult on Board: Travel Games for Grown-Ups No ratings yet $10.00
7 SEQUENCE- Original SEQUENCE Game with Folding Board, Cards and Chips by Jax ( Packaging may Vary ) White, 10.3' x 8.1' x 2.31' SEQUENCE- Original SEQUENCE Game with Folding Board, Cards and Chips by Jax ( Packaging may Vary )... $14.97
8 Aggravation With Retro Artwork by Winning Moves Games USA, the Classic Marble Race Game, Great For Kids, for 2 to 6 Players, Ages 6+ Aggravation With Retro Artwork by Winning Moves Games USA, the Classic Marble Race Game, Great For... No ratings yet $16.39
9 Jumanji Deluxe Game, Immersive Electronic Version of The Classic Adventure Movie Board Game, with Lights and Sounds, Family Game Night Game for Kids & Adults Ages 8 and up Jumanji Deluxe Game, Immersive Electronic Version of The Classic Adventure Movie Board Game, with... No ratings yet $26.00
10 Hasbro Gaming Sorry! Family Board Games for Kids and Adults, 2 to 4 Players, Ages 6 and Up (Amazon Exclusive) Hasbro Gaming Sorry! Family Board Games for Kids and Adults, 2 to 4 Players, Ages 6 and Up (Amazon... No ratings yet $21.99

Buying Guide for the Best Grown-Up Board Games

Before diving into our top picks, it’s vital to understand how to select the right board games for adults. Here are some key factors to consider when searching for the best grown-up board games:

1. Player Count

Different games accommodate varying numbers of players. Consider the size of your usual gaming group. Some games are designed for small gatherings, while others can handle large crowds. Make sure you choose a game that fits your group’s size for the best experience.

2. Game Duration

Game length can significantly impact your game night. If you’re planning a longer gathering, opt for games that take more time. Conversely, for a quick session, select games that can be completed in under an hour.

3. Complexity Level

Not all grown-up board games are created equal when it comes to complexity. Some games require strategic thinking and deep rules understanding, whereas others may be more casual and easy to grasp. Consider your group’s experience level with board games and choose accordingly.

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4. Theme and Genre

Adult board games cover a plethora of genres, from party games and trivia to strategy and cooperative games. Choosing a theme or genre that resonates with your group ensures everyone has a good time. Think about what your friends enjoy and select games aligned with their interests.

5. Replay Value

Some games lose their novelty after one or two plays, while others offer new strategies and experiences every time. Look for games that provide lasting entertainment to keep your game nights fresh and exciting.

Top 10 Best Grown-Up Board Games on Amazon

1. Catan (formerly The Settlers of Catan)

Catan has been a staple in the board gaming community since its release in 1995. This classic game invites players to build settlements, trade resources, and gain victory points. With a perfect blend of strategy and luck, Catan keeps players engaged and encourages social interaction. The game is suitable for 3-4 players and can be expanded to accommodate more, making it an excellent choice for a friendly game night. Its replay value is high, thanks to the ever-changing game board and player decisions.

OFF -$16.02Bestseller No. 1
CATAN Board Game (Base Game) | Family Board Game | Board Game for Adults and Family | Adventure Board Game | Ages 10+ | for 3 to 4 Players | Average Playtime 60 Minutes | Made by Catan Studio
CATAN Board Game (Base Game) | Family Board Game | Board Game for Adults and Family | Adventure Board Game | Ages 10+ | for 3 to 4 Players | Average Playtime 60 Minutes | Made by Catan Studio
  • EXPLORE CATAN: Set sail to the uncharted island of Catan and compete with other settlers to establish supremacy.
  • RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: Strategically gather and trade resources like ore, brick, lumber, grain, and wool to expand your settlements.
  • BUILD AND UPGRADE: Use your resources to build roads, settlements, and cities to earn victory points.
  • DYNAMIC GAMEPLAY: Roll the dice to collect resources based on terrain hexes, and employ clever tactics to outmaneuver your opponents.
  • CLASSIC GAME: Celebrate the 25th anniversary of CATAN, a timeless strategy board game loved by players worldwide.

2. Ticket to Ride

First released in 2004, Ticket to Ride has gained popularity for its straightforward mechanics and engaging gameplay. Players compete to build train routes across the map, completing routes and gaining points. The game accommodates 2-5 players and takes about 30-60 minutes, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. The charming designs and expanding maps ensure that you won’t grow tired of this classic any time soon.

OFF -$11.88Bestseller No. 1
Ticket to Ride Board Game - A Cross-Country Train Adventure for Friends and Family! Strategy Game for Kids & Adults, Ages 8+, 2-5 Players, 30-60 Minute Playtime, Made by Days of Wonder
Ticket to Ride Board Game - A Cross-Country Train Adventure for Friends and Family! Strategy Game for Kids & Adults, Ages 8+, 2-5 Players, 30-60 Minute Playtime, Made by Days of Wonder
  • FAST-PACED STRATEGY: Race to build your train routes across iconic American cities in this award-winning board game.
  • COMPETITIVE FUN: Challenge friends and family in a 2-5 player game, where every move counts.
  • COLLECT TRAIN CARDS: Strategically gather train cards to claim routes and earn points.
  • TICKET TO SUCCESS: Plan your routes wisely with ticket cards for bonus points.
  • ENDLESS REPLAYABILITY: Enjoy hours of entertainment with this classic board game.

3. Betrayal at House on the Hill

This thrilling board game combines strategy, exploration, and horror elements. Players explore a haunted mansion, unveiling new rooms, and encountering eerie events. As players dive deeper, they may unknowingly trigger a hidden traitor, leading to an exciting showdown. The game supports 3-6 players and offers a multi-scenario experience, ensuring no two games are the same. Perfect for mystery and horror enthusiasts, Betrayal takes gamers on a thrilling adventure every time.

OFF -$22.40Bestseller No. 1
Avalon Hill Betrayal at The House on The Hill 3rd Edition Cooperative Board Game, Halloween Games for 3-6 Players,50 Chilling Scenarios, Ages 12+
Avalon Hill Betrayal at The House on The Hill 3rd Edition Cooperative Board Game, Halloween Games for 3-6 Players,50 Chilling Scenarios, Ages 12+
  • EXCITING THIRD EDITION: This edition of the Betrayal at the House on the Hill game is rich with horror-based content, gaming elements, and characters not seen in previous versions
  • HAUNTED HOUSE TRAITOR GAME: Players must work together to survive the nightmare…but beware . The house turns one player against the others in this cooperative strategy game
  • GREAT FOR NEW PLAYERS: This 3rd Edition of the game features artwork, rule books, trackers, and cards that will help new players navigate the game and jump right in
  • MODULAR BOARD PIECES: The Betrayal at House on the Hill tabletop game features 50 blood-curdling scenarios. Each trip to the house promises fresh horrors and a new story is created every time you play
  • MINIATURES BOARD GAME: The game includes 6 finely detailed character figures, each with a removable colored disc, and features 12 diverse characters not seen in previous editions

4. Azul

A visually pleasing abstract strategy game, Azul is both simple to learn and incredibly strategic. Players take turns drafting colorful tiles to complete patterns on their player boards, scoring points based on their arrangements. The game is suitable for 2-4 players and takes about 30-45 minutes to play. With beautiful components and strategic depth, Azul is an excellent choice for both casual and hardcore gamers alike.

OFF -$8.02Bestseller No. 1
Azul-Board Game Strategy-Board Mosaic-Tile Placement Family-Board for Adults and Kids Ages 8 up 2 to 4 Players
Azul-Board Game Strategy-Board Mosaic-Tile Placement Family-Board for Adults and Kids Ages 8 up 2 to 4 Players
  • BECOME AN ARTISAN: Craft exquisite tile mosaics in this award-winning board game.
  • STRATEGY MATTERS: Plan your moves carefully to outscore opponents and disrupt their plans.
  • HIGH-QUALITY COMPONENTS: Enjoy top-notch components and beautiful tile pieces.
  • FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN: Suitable for players of all ages, making it a perfect addition to game night.
  • DESIGNED BY A MASTER: Created by world-renowned game author Michael Kiesling.

5. Cards Against Humanity

For adult gatherings seeking a dose of humor and irreverence, Cards Against Humanity is hard to beat. This party game invites players to fill in the blanks of funny or outrageous sentences, resulting in hilariously inappropriate combinations. While it can accommodate 3 or more players, the more the merrier. Cards Against Humanity is an unforgettable choice for nights filled with laughter, making it one of the best grown-up board games around.

Bestseller No. 1
Cards Against Humanity
Cards Against Humanity
  • A party game for horrible people.
  • Comes with 500 white cards and 100 black cards for eternal replayability.
  • Includes a booklet of sensible game rules and preposterous alternate rules.
  • This is the main game. Buy this first.
  • America’s #1 gerbil coffin.

6. Scythe

For players who love in-depth strategy and a bit of combat, Scythe offers a rich experience set in an alternate-history 1920s Europe. Each player controls factions with unique abilities, competing for territory and resources while developing their economy and influence. Scythe supports 1-7 players and provides approximately 90-120 minutes of immersive gameplay. The unique combination of strategy, worker placement, and combat makes Scythe a masterpiece among adult board games.

OFF -$5.60Bestseller No. 1
Scythe (1) (Arc of a Scythe)
Scythe (1) (Arc of a Scythe)
  • Shusterman, Neal (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 464 Pages - 11/28/2017 (Publication Date) - Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (Publisher)

7. Pandemic

Pandemic is a cooperative game where players work together to stop the spread of diseases around the globe. Each player assumes a unique role with special abilities, strategizing to find cures and treat infections throughout cities. Pandemic is designed for 2-4 players, fostering teamwork and communication. The game spans about 45 minutes and emphasizes collaboration, making it perfect for groups that prefer working together rather than competing against each other.

OFF -$8.04Bestseller No. 1
Pandemic Board Game (Base Game) | Cooperative Board Game for Adults and Family | Ages 8+ | 2 to 4 players | Average Playtime 45 minutes | Made by Z-Man Games
Pandemic Board Game (Base Game) | Cooperative Board Game for Adults and Family | Ages 8+ | 2 to 4 players | Average Playtime 45 minutes | Made by Z-Man Games
  • STRATEGY GAME: Players must work together playing to their characters' strengths as they plan their strategy of eradicating the diseases before they overwhelm the world with ever-increasing outbreaks. A truly cooperative game where you win or lose together.
  • COOPERATIVE BOARD GAME: Only through teamwork will you keep the world safe from outbreaks and epidemics. Your team must work together and plan carefully to stem the tide of infection while working toward finding the cures.
  • WORK TOGETHER AND SAVE HUMANITY: Four diseases threaten the world, and your elite team of specialists must find a cure for each of them before it’s too late. Everyone must work together applying their unique character skills to benefit the team—and the world.
  • LOOKING FOR NEW GAMEPLAY AND ADVENTURES? The Pandemic game line now includes multiple expansions and stand-alone titles. Note: Expansions require Pandemic Base Game to play.
  • NUMBER OF PLAYERS AND AVERAGE PLAYTIME: This easy to learn family and adult board game can be played with 2 to 4 players. The average playtime is 45 minutes.

8. The Resistance

This social deduction game is perfect for larger groups, typically 5-10 players. The Resistance tasks players with completing missions while determining who among them is working against the collective goal. Subterfuge, deception, and negotiation are vital components of gameplay, leading to heated discussions and dramatic betrayals. Sessions last around 30 minutes, making it an engaging and fast-paced option for game nights.

Bestseller No. 1
The Resistance Card Game - Social Deduction, Strategy, Bluffing, Negotiation, and Deception for Teens and Adults - Party Game for 5-10 Players Ages 13+ in 30 Minute Rounds by Indie Boards & Cards
The Resistance Card Game - Social Deduction, Strategy, Bluffing, Negotiation, and Deception for Teens and Adults - Party Game for 5-10 Players Ages 13+ in 30 Minute Rounds by Indie Boards & Cards
  • Dive into 'The Resistance,' the ultimate social deduction card game. Test your strategy, bluffing, and negotiation skills in a thrilling battle of spies and resistance fighters.
  • Enjoy non-stop gameplay with no player elimination; everyone plays until the end. Lying to your friends and uncovering their deception is key to victory.
  • Perfect for teens and adults who love board games, 'The Resistance' is an ideal choice for family game nights, combining strategy and deception in an immersive, science fiction-themed experience.
  • Gather your friends and family for epic game nights filled with social deduction, hidden roles, and team-based gameplay. Challenge your group's strategic thinking and enjoy endless replayability.
  • This title is part of The Dystopian Universe, encompassing games like Coup and The Resistance. It immerses players in a larger world of espionage, deception, and intrigue where players navigate political turmoil, bluff their way to power, or uncover hidden traitors.

9. Mysterium

Mysterium combines cooperative gameplay with mystery-solving, where players assume the roles of psychics trying to decode visions sent to them by a ghost to solve a murder. The game accommodates 2-7 players, and sessions generally last around 42 minutes. With each game delivering a unique experience, Mysterium highlights creativity and imagination, making it a fantastic pick for fans of mystery games.

OFF -$20.00Bestseller No. 1
Mysterium Board Game (Base Game) - Enigmatic Cooperative Mystery Game with Ghostly Intrigue, Fun for Family Game Night, Ages 10+, 2-7 Players, 45 Minute Playtime, Made by Libellud
Mysterium Board Game (Base Game) - Enigmatic Cooperative Mystery Game with Ghostly Intrigue, Fun for Family Game Night, Ages 10+, 2-7 Players, 45 Minute Playtime, Made by Libellud
  • IMMERSIVE MYSTERY: Step into the supernatural world of Mysterium, a cooperative board game where players unravel a haunting mystery with ghostly clues and paranormal investigation.
  • GHOSTLY INTRIGUE: Assume the role of psychics and work together to interpret cryptic clues from a ghostly apparition to solve the perplexing crime in this immersive deduction and storytelling game.
  • BEAUTIFUL ARTWORK: Delight in the stunning, evocative illustrations that immerse you in the eerie atmosphere of the game, featuring mesmerizing supernatural scenes and ghostly visions.
  • VARYING DIFFICULTY: Enjoy adjustable difficulty levels, ensuring a challenging experience for both novice and experienced investigators, with multiple game modes and customizable gameplay.
  • REPLAYABLE EXPERIENCE: With countless combinations of suspects, locations, weapons, and spectral visions, every game offers a unique and engaging mystery to solve, providing endless hours of thrilling gameplay.

10. 7 Wonders

7 Wonders is a card drafting game where players build ancient civilizations through resource management and strategic planning. Each round, players choose cards that represent buildings, military, and advancements to grow their empires effectively. The game can accommodate 3-7 players and can be completed within 30 minutes. With its easy-to-understand rules and simultaneous play mechanism, 7 Wonders is an ideal choice for groups that appreciate strategy without extensive time commitments.

OFF -$16.53Bestseller No. 1
7 Wonders Board Game BASE GAME (New Edition) for Family | Civilization and Strategy Board Game for Adult Game Night | 3-7 Players | Ages 10+ | Made by Repos Production
7 Wonders Board Game BASE GAME (New Edition) for Family | Civilization and Strategy Board Game for Adult Game Night | 3-7 Players | Ages 10+ | Made by Repos Production
  • STRATEGY GAME: You are a leader of one of the seven greatest cities of the Ancient World. Gather resources, develop commercial routes and affirm your military supremacy. Build your city and erect an architectural wonder which will transcend future times.
  • BUILD YOUR CIVILIZATION: Players draft cards over multiple rounds, carefully building towards long-term goals. Keep an eye on your neighbors’ progress since they share similar ambitions. Will your wonder transcend the millennia to come?
  • HOW TO WIN THIS GAME: Each player compares their military strength with one of their neighboring cities. After the third age, players score the points given by their cards and their military conflicts. The player with the most points wins!
  • FAST & FUN GAME FOR FAMILIES: Average 30 minutes of gameplay with 3-7 players. The perfect gift to add to family game night with kids aged 10 and up!
  • REPLAY FOR NEW FUN GAMEPLAY: 7 Wonders offers quick gameplays which keep players engaged. Looking for new adventures? Try our 3 Expansions New Editions: Cities, Leaders and Armada (Note: All Expansions require 7 Wonders Base Game to play).

Conclusion

With countless options on Amazon for the best grown-up board games, there’s something out there for everyone. Whether your group prefers strategic planning, cooperation, or just a good laugh, our top 10 list serves as a great starting point to elevate your game nights. Remember to consider the factors in our buying guide to select a game that best fits your group’s preferences. By investing in any of these games, you’ll create lasting memories filled with excitement, strategy, and camaraderie in 2024 and beyond.

Last update on 2024-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.

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