Best board games: Your ultimate guide to what to play this Christmas, from family fun to strategy games and puzzles - selected by our expert

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Sitting down with the family for an afternoon of cosy board games can be one of the best parts of Christmas, second only to putting up your favourite decorations or hanging a Christmas wreath.

However, far too many Boxing Days have been ruined by a steaming argument over a game of Monopoly or wasted looking for missing letters in the Scrabble box. 

NO MONOPOLY HERE! Our expert tester has rounded up the best board games you never knew you needed

Luckily, our reviewers have tested dozens of board games to find you the perfect game to bring the whole family together this Christmas. 

Whether you're looking for a simple, fun party game that's guaranteed to get a laugh or a deeper, strategic experience to get stuck into, our buying guide has you covered. 

Our reviewer has played dozens of games to find the right one for you. Ranging from clever modern-classics like Azul (left), to all-time favourites like Catan (right)

We've reviewed modern classics such as Wingspan and Azul, as well as long-time favourites like Catan.

And, with plenty of choices at different prices, you'll be able to find a game that is right for your budget. 

Best board games: Quick list

• Best buy overall: Wingspan
• Best party game: Herd Mentality
• Best board game for kids: Oh My Pidgeons
• Best strategy board game: Catan
• Best puzzle game: Azul
• Best co-operative board game: Mysterium
• Best two-player board game: Dual for Middle Earth 
• Best stocking filler: Tinderblox

How we test

When testing board games, we make sure to try them out for at least a few weeks, spending plenty of time playing them with multiple different groups. Most of these games were already in our reviewer's collection and have been played for years.

As well as looking at how fun they are to play, we also consider factors like how accessible they are or how easy the rules are to learn. 

Our expert tester is a long time board game enthusiast 

Together with a group of expert reviewers at MailOnline, we collate and compare our findings so you can choose the best board games for your family.

Why trust us

Our expert team has been testing products and writing reviews for many years, covering a wide range of lifestyle products.  This includes everything from coffee machines to mobile phones.

Wiliam's reviews are honest, unbiased, and based on years spent playing countless different board games. He takes into consideration all different budgets, interests, and concerns, so you always have the information you need to make an informed decision.  

Best board games to play at Christmas 2025 

1. Best buy overall: Wingspan

2. Best party game: Herd Mentality 

3. Best board game for kids: Oh My Pigeons!

4. Best strategy board game: Catan

5. Best puzzle board game: Azul

6. Best cooperative board game: Mysterium 

7. Best two-player board game: Lord of the Rings - Dual for Middle Earth

8. Best stocking filler: Tinderblox

Our verdict

If I had to buy just one game from this list, I would choose to pick up a copy of Wingspan. Out of all the games in my collection, this is easily the one I find myself reaching for the most often, and I still find something fresh and exciting every time I play.

While the rules are simple and intuitive, there is so much depth for more experienced players to explore. And, with several expansion packs to add more content, Wingspan offers unparalleled amounts of fun for your money.

There are so many good game choices this Christmas, from simple card games to complex multiplayers

As well as being fun to play with the family over Christmas, the game's premium design, excellent quality, and stunning art would also make it a great gift for the board game enthusiast in your life.

For something simpler that will entertain grandad and the grandchildren alike, I would recommend Herd Mentality. This game is always great fun and gets everyone talking and laughing around the table - especially when played after a few glasses of festive Baileys.

FAQs

How much should I spend on a board game?

The price of board games can vary quite a lot depending on the size of the game. Generally, a smaller party game like Tinderblox will cost between £15 and £25. Larger games with more pieces and more expensive parts, such as Catan, could cost between £40 and £50. Premium or specialist games, which often include hundreds of custom cards and tokens, can cost in excess of £60.

How can I try out a board game before buying it?

If you want to see whether you like a board game before purchasing it, the best thing to do is find your local board game cafe. These will have hundreds of different board games for customers to try, and usually have plenty of new titles to try. This way, you can play a few rounds of a more expensive game before deciding to get a copy for yourself.

What can I do if I lose pieces?

Losing a key piece of a board game can be frustrating, but it isn't the end of the world. Many game publishers, such as Asmodee and Stonemaier Games, have forms that you can fill out to request new pieces to replace lost or damaged parts for free. Online marketplaces such as Etsy or eBay can also be a good place to look for cheap replacements.