Bestselling Board Games For Families Kids

Gathering around the table for a board game is a timeless way to connect with family and friends. It offers hours of fun, sparks friendly competition, and creates lasting memories. Finding the perfect game for everyone, especially when kids are involved, can sometimes be a challenge.

This article explores some of the bestselling board games that consistently rank high for family enjoyment. We’ve curated a selection that caters to different ages, interests, and play styles. Whether you prefer strategy, quick laughs, or cooperative challenges, there’s something here for you.

From games that teach valuable skills to those designed purely for entertainment, our list covers a wide range. You’ll find options suitable for younger children, games that engage pre-teens, and even titles that adults will genuinely love playing.

We’ve included a mix of budget-friendly choices and those that offer a premium experience, ensuring there’s an option for various preferences. Each game on this list has earned its place through popularity and positive player reviews. Get ready to discover your family’s next favorite game night activity.

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1. Ticket to Ride

What it is: Ticket to Ride is a classic cross-country train adventure game where players collect colored train cars and claim railway routes connecting cities across a map. It’s known for its engaging strategy and beautiful components.

Why it’s awesome: This game is fantastic for introducing strategy to younger players without being overly complex. It balances luck with tactical decision-making, keeping everyone invested. It’s also one of the top choices for family game night.

Who it’s for: Perfect for families with kids aged 8 and up. It scales well from two to five players, making it versatile for different family sizes.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range game, offering excellent value for its replayability and quality. It’s a best-seller for good reason.

Standout feature: The simple yet deep gameplay makes it easy to learn but hard to master, providing endless fun.

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2. Catan (formerly Settlers of Catan)

What it is: Catan is a resource-management and trading game where players build settlements, cities, and roads on the fictional island of Catan. You gather resources like wood, brick, wool, grain, and ore to expand your civilization.

Why it’s awesome: It’s a cornerstone of modern board gaming, celebrated for its unique blend of strategy, negotiation, and a touch of luck from dice rolls. Every game feels different due to the modular board setup.

Who it’s for: Ideal for families with older kids, typically ages 10 and up, who enjoy strategic thinking and player interaction. It supports three to four players.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range to premium game, a worthwhile investment for its enduring popularity and depth. It’s a best-selling board game worldwide.

Standout feature: The dynamic trading system encourages lively negotiation and interaction among players.

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3. Sushi Go!

What it is: Sushi Go! is a fast-paced card-drafting game where players try to grab the best combination of sushi dishes as they pass by. You collect sets of cards to score points.

Why it’s awesome: Its adorable artwork, quick rounds, and simple rules make it incredibly accessible and fun for all ages. It’s a fantastic filler game or a warm-up for longer sessions.

Who it’s for: Great for families with kids aged 8 and up, or even younger with a little help. It plays well with two to five players.

Price indicator: This is a budget-friendly option, making it an easy addition to any game collection. It’s a top pick for quick family fun.

Standout feature: The “pass and play” mechanic keeps everyone involved and engaged throughout the game.

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4. Exploding Kittens

What it is: Exploding Kittens is a highly strategic, kitty-powered version of Russian Roulette. Players draw cards until someone draws an Exploding Kitten, at which point they are out of the game unless they have a Defuse card.

Why it’s awesome: It’s renowned for its hilarious and quirky artwork, simple rules, and unpredictable gameplay. The game is full of tension and laugh-out-loud moments.

Who it’s for: Perfect for families with kids aged 7 and up who appreciate silly humor and quick, engaging rounds. It supports two to five players.

Price indicator: This is a budget-friendly card game, offering immense entertainment for its cost. It has quickly become a best-selling phenomenon.

Standout feature: The outrageous and unique illustrations on every card add greatly to the game’s charm and humor.

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5. Disney Villainous

What it is: In Disney Villainous, players take on the role of a classic Disney Villain, each with their own unique objectives and abilities. You try to achieve your evil goal before other villains do.

Why it’s awesome: It’s a beautifully designed game that perfectly captures the essence of each villain. The asymmetric gameplay means every character offers a different experience.

Who it’s for: Ideal for Disney fans aged 10 and up, and families who enjoy strategic games with a thematic twist. It plays with two to six players.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range game, offering high-quality components and a rich thematic experience. It’s a top choice for fans.

Standout feature: Playing as iconic villains like Maleficent or Captain Hook provides a fresh and exciting perspective on familiar stories.

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6. Uno

What it is: Uno is a classic card game where players try to be the first to empty their hands of cards by matching the color or number of the previous card played. Action cards add exciting twists.

Why it’s awesome: It’s incredibly easy to learn and offers quick, engaging rounds. Uno is a staple for family gatherings and travel due to its portability and widespread appeal.

Who it’s for: Great for families with kids aged 7 and up, though even younger children can grasp the basics. It supports two to ten players, making it excellent for larger groups.

Price indicator: This is a very budget-friendly game, practically a must-have for any game collection. It’s consistently one of the best and most recognized card games.

Standout feature: The “Wild” and “Reverse” cards ensure that every game is dynamic and full of surprises.

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7. Monopoly (Classic Edition)

What it is: Monopoly is the iconic real estate trading game where players buy, sell, and trade properties with the goal of bankrupting their opponents. Build houses and hotels to increase rent.

Why it’s awesome: It’s a household name for a reason, teaching basic economics and negotiation skills. Many families have fond memories of playing this game together.

Who it’s for: Suitable for families with kids aged 8 and up, though games can be quite long. It plays with two to eight players.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range game, a classic investment that many families return to repeatedly. It remains a best-selling board game for generations.

Standout feature: The thrill of landing on Boardwalk with a hotel and collecting massive rent is uniquely satisfying.

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8. The Game of Life

What it is: The Game of Life is a journey-based board game where players make life choices from college and careers to marriage and retirement. Spin the wheel to move along the path.

Why it’s awesome: It provides a fun, lighthearted way to explore different life paths and decisions. It’s a classic that many parents grew up with and enjoy sharing with their own kids.

Who it’s for: Ideal for families with kids aged 8 and up. It accommodates two to four players.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range game, a popular choice for its nostalgic appeal and simple gameplay. It’s a top family pick.

Standout feature: The iconic spinning wheel adds an element of chance and excitement to every turn.

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9. Clue

What it is: Clue is the classic mystery deduction game where players try to determine who murdered Mr. Boddy, with what weapon, and in which room. You gather clues by moving around the mansion.

Why it’s awesome: It encourages logical thinking, deduction, and strategic questioning. Solving the mystery feels incredibly rewarding and engaging for players of all ages.

Who it’s for: Great for families with kids aged 8 and up who enjoy a bit of detective work. It plays with three to six players.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range game, a timeless addition to any family’s game night rotation. It is among the best mystery games for families.

Standout feature: The process of eliminating suspects and weapons to deduce the truth is wonderfully satisfying.

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10. Candy Land

What it is: Candy Land is a simple race-to-the-finish game designed for very young children. Players draw colored cards and move their gingerbread pawn along a path to reach King Kandy’s Castle.

Why it’s awesome: It’s one of the first board games many children play, requiring no reading or complex strategy. It helps teach color recognition and turn-taking.

Who it’s for: Absolutely perfect for families with toddlers and preschoolers, aged 3 and up. It plays with two to four players.

Price indicator: This is a budget-friendly classic, an essential first board game for the youngest members of the family. It’s a best-seller for early learners.

Standout feature: The bright, colorful board and sweet-themed characters are highly appealing to little ones.

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11. Sorry!

What it is: Sorry! is a classic game of chase, race, and slide, where players try to get all their pawns from Start to Home. You draw cards to move your pawns, and “Sorry!” cards let you send opponents back to their start.

Why it’s awesome: It’s easy to learn and offers exciting moments of triumph and frustration. The simple mechanics make it accessible for younger players while still being fun for adults.

Who it’s for: Ideal for families with kids aged 6 and up. It plays with two to four players.

Price indicator: This is a budget-friendly game, a tried-and-true option for family game nights. It’s a top choice for a bit of competitive fun.

Standout feature: The “Sorry!” card mechanic creates dramatic shifts in the game, keeping everyone on their toes.

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12. Trouble

What it is: Trouble is a classic “race and chase” game where players try to move all four of their pegs around the board and into their Home space. The iconic Pop-O-Matic dice roller keeps things exciting.

Why it’s awesome: The Pop-O-Matic bubble is a major draw, making dice rolling fun and preventing lost dice. It’s simple, engaging, and perfect for a quick game.

Who it’s for: Great for families with kids aged 5 and up. It accommodates two to four players.

Price indicator: This is a budget-friendly game, a staple for young families looking for straightforward fun. It’s one of the best entry-level board games.

Standout feature: The Pop-O-Matic dice roller is incredibly satisfying and a unique element of the game.

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13. King of Tokyo

What it is: King of Tokyo is a dice-rolling game where players take on the roles of giant monsters, aliens, or robots battling to become the King of Tokyo. You attack opponents, heal, or gain victory points.

Why it’s awesome: It’s fast-paced, full of monster movie charm, and offers exciting push-your-luck decisions. The theme is universally appealing to kids and adults alike.

Who it’s for: Perfect for families with kids aged 8 and up who enjoy strategic dice games and monstrous themes. It plays with two to six players.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range game, providing a lot of fun and replayability for its price. It’s a top-rated choice for action-packed game nights.

Standout feature: Rolling giant dice and stomping on opponents as a monstrous kaiju is incredibly satisfying.

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14. Codenames

What it is: Codenames is a word-association party game where two teams compete to be the first to make contact with all of their agents. Spymasters give one-word clues that can point to multiple words on the board.

Why it’s awesome: It’s brilliant for encouraging creative thinking and communication. The challenge of giving and interpreting clever clues is highly engaging and rewarding.

Who it’s for: Ideal for families with older kids, typically ages 10 and up, who enjoy word games and deduction. It plays best with four or more players.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range game, offering immense replayability and intellectual stimulation. It’s a best-selling party game.

Standout feature: The clever word association mechanic creates incredibly satisfying “aha!” moments when a clue connects multiple words.

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15. Azul

What it is: Azul is an abstract strategy game where players are tile-laying artists decorating the walls of the Royal Palace of Evora. You draft colorful tiles and score points by completing patterns.

Why it’s awesome: It’s visually stunning with high-quality components, and its elegant gameplay is easy to learn but offers surprising strategic depth. It feels very satisfying to play.

Who it’s for: Great for families with kids aged 8 and up who enjoy abstract puzzles and beautiful aesthetics. It plays with two to four players.

Price indicator: This is a premium game, recognized for its exceptional quality and engaging gameplay. It’s a top choice for those seeking a more refined experience.

Standout feature: The tactile experience of drafting and placing the colorful, chunky tiles is incredibly appealing.

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16. Pictionary

What it is: Pictionary is the classic drawing game where players sketch clues for their teammates to guess. Teams race against the clock to correctly identify words and phrases.

Why it’s awesome: It guarantees laughter and creative expression. You don’t need to be an artist to play; in fact, bad drawings often make the game even funnier.

Who it’s for: Perfect for families with kids aged 8 and up, and excellent for larger groups. It plays best with four or more players divided into teams.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range game, a party game staple that promises lively entertainment. It’s a best-selling classic for family gatherings.

Standout feature: The sheer joy and hilarity that comes from trying to communicate complex ideas through simple drawings.

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17. Scrabble

What it is: Scrabble is the timeless word game where players form interlocking words, crossword-style, on a game board using letter tiles. Each letter has a point value, and bonus squares amplify scores.

Why it’s awesome: It’s fantastic for building vocabulary and spelling skills while providing a challenging and rewarding strategic experience. It’s a true test of linguistic prowess.

Who it’s for: Ideal for families with older kids, typically ages 8 and up, who love words and strategic thinking. It plays with two to four players.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range game, a classic educational and entertaining choice for generations. It’s a top word game.

Standout feature: The satisfaction of finding a high-scoring word on a triple-word-score square is unparalleled.

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18. Telestrations

What it is: Telestrations is a “telephone game” mashed with drawing, where players sketch what they see, then guess what they saw. Everyone’s drawings and guesses are revealed at the end, leading to hilarious results.

Why it’s awesome: It’s incredibly easy to learn and consistently generates uproarious laughter. The misinterpretations and creative liberties taken are the heart of the fun.

Who it’s for: Great for families with kids aged 8 and up, and excellent for larger groups. It plays best with four to eight players.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range party game, guaranteeing endless entertainment and memorable moments. It’s one of the best party games for families.

Standout feature: The “big reveal” at the end of each round, showing how a simple drawing can evolve into something completely different, is pure comedic gold.

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19. Qwirkle

What it is: Qwirkle is an abstract strategy game where players score points by building lines of tiles that share a common color or shape. There are no words or numbers, just colorful shapes.

Why it’s awesome: It’s simple enough for younger players to grasp but offers surprising strategic depth for adults. The tactile nature of the chunky tiles is also very satisfying.

Who it’s for: Perfect for families with kids aged 6 and up who enjoy pattern recognition and logical puzzles. It plays with two to four players.

Price indicator: This is a mid-range game, an award-winning choice for its elegant design and broad appeal. It’s a top abstract game.

Standout feature: Its universal appeal, requiring no language skills, makes it accessible to a very wide audience.

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20. Hoot Owl Hoot!

What it is: Hoot Owl Hoot! is a cooperative board game where players work together to help a group of owls fly back to their nest before the sun rises. Players draw color cards and move any owl.

Why it’s awesome: It teaches teamwork and strategic thinking without the pressure of competition. Everyone wins or loses together, fostering a positive play environment.

Who it’s for: Ideal for families with young children, aged 4 and up. It plays with two to four players.

Price indicator: This is a budget-friendly cooperative game, an excellent introduction to board games for preschoolers. It’s one of the best for very young kids.

Standout feature: The cooperative nature ensures that everyone feels good about playing, regardless of the outcome.

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Last Words

Choosing the right board game can transform an ordinary evening into an extraordinary family event. This list of bestselling board games for families and kids offers a fantastic starting point, whether you’re looking for a quick card game or a more involved strategy experience. Each game provides unique features and appeals, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every type of family.

From the strategic train routes of Ticket to Ride to the silly drawings of Telestrations, these selections are proven crowd-pleasers. Consider your family’s age range, interests, and how much time you want to spend playing when making your decision. There are budget-friendly options, as well as more premium games that offer deep replay value.

You can’t go wrong with any of these top-rated choices. They’ve earned their popularity by consistently delivering fun, engagement, and memorable moments. We encourage you to explore the features of each game further to find your family’s next favorite. Check current prices and availability on Amazon to bring one of these best-selling board games home today.