cover image for a gift guide article about best board games to pick up this Christmas as gifts for family and friends

Christmas Board-Gaming Gift Guide for Families & Casual Gamers (2024)

Christmas Board-Gaming Gift Guide for Families & Casual Gamers (2024)

The holiday season is almost here, so it’s time to gather around the table for some quality time with friends and family. But what’s better than sharing a festive meal? A fun-filled game night, of course!

Whether you're shopping for kids, teens, your partner, or relatives, there’s a board game for everyone that will bring laughter and joy to your Christmas gatherings.

👉 Related: Christmas Gift Guide for Board Gaming Enthusiasts

Disclosure

1. This article is not a review. It is a quick overview of these games.
2. The article includes games based on our own opinions. We have played some of the games, but not all of them.
3. The games are not sorted in any particular order. If you want to learn more about a particular game, click on the included links!
4. The article contains affiliate links - when you buy through links on our site, we may earn commission at no cost to you.

Saw a mistake? We are just human, and some errors can happen. If you saw a mistake in the article, let us know in the comments below or send us a message.

father gifting his daughter a christmas gift; she unwraps it next to a chrismtas tree

Best Family Board Games This Christmas

The magical feeling of seeing your kids and familiy unwrapping a gift they love! It's magical! So, let's find out what are some of the best board games you can get your kids, teens, and relatives this Holiday season!

Christmas Board Games For Kids & Teens

1. Cascadia (2021) - Best for nature-loving kids and strategic teens

Cascadia has quickly become a family favorite, offering a mix of strategy, tile placement, and wildlife fun. In this beautifully designed game, players build their own habitats with matching animals, creating peaceful ecosystems. The rules are simple, but there’s enough depth to keep older kids engaged.

  • Price: Mid-range ($30-40)
  • Game length: 30-45 minutes
  • Why it’s perfect: It’s educational, visually stunning, and simple enough for younger kids but still strategic enough to keep teens interested. Plus, who doesn’t love adorable animals?
  • 👉 Buy on Amazon

 

2. My Little Scythe (2021) - For competitive siblings

This game is a kid-friendly spin on the classic strategy game Scythe. In My Little Scythe, players take turns in a race to gather resources, complete quests, and battle with pie fights! It’s perfect for siblings who love a bit of friendly competition and teamwork.

  • Price: Mid-range ($40-50)
  • Game length: 45 minutes
  • Why it’s perfect: It combines adventure, strategy, and just the right amount of cuteness, making it ideal for kids who love fun and strategy.
  • 👉 Buy on Amazon

 

3. Marvel United (2022) - For the superhero fans

Marvel United is an excellent choice if you have a Marvel fan in the family. Players work together to stop villains from wreaking havoc using their favorite heroes like Spider-Man, Hulk, and Captain America. It’s a cooperative game, perfect for keeping the peace at Christmas!

  • Price: Mid-range ($40-50)
  • Game length: 30-40 minutes
  • Why it’s perfect: It’s a quick-paced, cooperative game where everyone can be a hero. The miniatures are a collector’s dream, too!
  • 👉 Buy on Amazon

 

4. Super Mega Lucky Box (2021) - A Quick and Fun Bingo-Style Game for All Ages

This bingo-inspired game is all about quick turns and fast-paced decision-making. Players mark off numbers on their lucky boxes to score points, creating a race to see who can finish their grids first. It’s easy to learn, making it perfect for younger kids while offering strategic fun for older players.

  • Price: Budget-friendly ($15-20)
  • Game length: 20 minutes
  • Why it’s perfect: Its quick gameplay and simple rules make it accessible for all ages. Plus, it’s small enough to be a great stocking stuffer.
  • 👉 Buy on Amazon

 

5. Throw Throw Burrito (2022) – For the Active and Adventurous Kids

    Throw Throw Burrito is a unique card game combined with a dodgeball-like mechanic. Players collect sets of cards to earn points, but when a burrito duel happens, it’s time to grab the squishy burritos and throw them at your opponents! It's pure chaos and fun, perfect for kids with high energy levels.

    • Price: Mid-range ($25-35)
    • Game length: 15-30 minutes
    • Why it’s perfect: This game's interactive and energetic gameplay brings laughter and excitement to the table. It’s especially great for kids who love physical activity mixed with card play!
    • 👉 Buy on Amazon

     

    6. Spheres of Life (2023) - Best for fantasy loving teens.

    The Spheres of Life is our own love creation - we created last year. It's a fast paced card game with drafting and set collection mechanics mixed with agility elements. It's fun for teens and adults alike!

    • Price: Mid-range ($30-40)
    • Game length: 20-30 minutes
    • Why it’s perfect: It's beautiful illustrations with fun gameplay meant for 2-7 players can be just the right gift for your teen. 
    • 👉 Buy on Joyful Games

    Xmas Board Games For Your Partner

    1. Pick Your Poison: After Dark Party Game The Ultimate “What Would You Rather Do?” Challenge

    Pick Your Poison is a hilariously twisted game of “Would You Rather,” where players craft impossible scenarios and force others to make the ultimate tough choice. With 300 Scenario cards, the combinations are endless, and no two game nights will ever be the same. This game will spark outrageous conversations and laughter whether you choose mildly uncomfortable or completely outlandish scenarios. #ad

    • Price: Affordable ($24.95)
    • Game length: 30-60 minutes
    • Why it’s perfect: Pick Your Poison is ideal for parties and group gatherings, keeping everyone engaged at all times. It’s the game where you quickly learn who has the same twisted sense of humor as you, making it an excellent icebreaker for any event.
    • 👉 Buy on Amazon

     

    2. Jaipur (2022 Edition) For the competitive duo

    Jaipur is a fast-paced card game for two players, perfect for couples who love a bit of competition. Set in a bustling Indian market, players take turns trading goods, camels, and precious gems to become the most successful merchant. It’s light enough for a quick game after dinner but strategic enough to keep you coming back.

    • Price: Affordable ($20-25)
    • Game length: 30 minutes
    • Why it’s perfect: Easy to learn but with enough strategy to keep it interesting, Jaipur is perfect for partners who enjoy a little rivalry.
    • 👉 Buy on Amazon

     

    3. That Time You Killed Me (2023) For the partner who loves a mind-bending challenge

    In this two-player game, you’ll engage in a duel across time. The board represents three different eras, and you’ll have to outwit your opponent by thinking ahead—literally! It’s a game of deduction, tactics, and clever moves, perfect for those who love mental gymnastics.

    • Price: Mid-range ($40-50)
    • Game length: 30-45 minutes
    • Why it’s perfect: This time-travel-themed game adds a unique twist to typical strategy games, making it a memorable experience for couples.
    • 👉 Buy on Amazon

     

    4. Fog of Love (2022) – For Couples Who Love a Bit of Romance and Drama

      Fog of Love perfectly blends romance, storytelling, and strategic decision-making. Each player takes on the role of a character in a relationship, and together, you navigate the ups and downs of love. The goal isn’t necessarily to “win” but to create a memorable narrative—sometimes even breaking up can be the best ending!

      • Price: Mid-range ($40-50)
      • Game length: 60-120 minutes
      • Why it’s perfect: It’s a unique game that fosters connection and communication, making it a lovely date night activity.
      • 👉 Buy on Amazon

       

      5. Codenames: Duet (2021) – For the Partner Who Loves Puzzles

        Codenames: Duet is a cooperative word game where partners work together to uncover secret agents from a grid of words while avoiding assassins. You’ll need to give clever clues to help your partner guess the correct words, making this a great choice for couples who love solving puzzles together.

        • Price: Affordable ($20-30)
        • Game length: 30-45 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: This game is perfect for partners who enjoy working together and love word-based challenges.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

        Xmas Board Games For Your Relatives

        1. Ticket to Ride: Europe (2022 Reprint) For the whole family

        Ticket to Ride: Europe is a timeless classic for a reason. Easy to learn, yet offering strategic depth, this game takes players on a railway-building adventure across Europe. It’s a hit for casual gamers and board game enthusiasts, making it perfect for family gatherings.

        • Price: Mid-range ($40-50)
        • Game length: 60-90 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: Accessible to all ages, Ticket to Ride combines simple rules with satisfying strategy. The family will love the race to connect cities and complete train routes.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        2. Azul (2021 Edition) For the artsy relative who loves a beautiful game

        Azul is a visually stunning game that involves tile placement and pattern building. The objective is to create the most intricate and beautiful mosaic using colored tiles. While it’s competitive, the atmosphere it creates is peaceful and meditative—perfect for winding down on Christmas Day.

        • Price: Mid-range ($30-40)
        • Game length: 30-45 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: It’s a beautiful game that’s easy to pick up but offers endless replayability, making it a family favorite.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        3. Dixit (2024 Edition) For the storytelling relative

        Dixit is a game of imagination and creativity, perfect for the artistic or storytelling relative. Players take turns being storytellers, creating a narrative based on the beautifully illustrated cards, while others try to guess which card matches the story. It’s light, whimsical, and perfect for casual gamers.

        • Price: Mid-range ($30-40)
        • Game length: 30-45 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: The abstract storytelling and stunning artwork make Dixit a game that’s more about creativity than competition, making it perfect for family gatherings.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        4. Splendor (2022 Edition) – For the Relative Who Loves a Touch of Luxury

        Splendor is a gem-trading game where players act as Renaissance merchants collecting precious stones to build their trade empire. The goal is to acquire enough prestige points by purchasing development cards and attracting nobles. It's a fast-paced and elegant game with simple rules and engaging strategy.

        • Price: Mid-range ($30-40)
        • Game length: 30 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: Easy to learn and quick to play, Splendor is great for family gatherings where you want a game that blends strategy with light competition. The rich theme of collecting gems adds a luxurious touch.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        5. Hive (2021 Edition) – For the Puzzle-Loving Relative

        Hive is an abstract strategy game that’s quick to set up and doesn’t require a board. The goal is to surround your opponent’s queen bee while defending your own. With each piece having its own unique movement, it’s a game of strategy and positioning that keeps you thinking several moves ahead.

        • Price: Affordable ($30-40)
        • Game length: 20 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: Hive is compact, quick, and endlessly replayable, making it ideal for relatives who love a good brain teaser. It’s also highly portable, making it great for holiday trips!
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon
        four friends playing jenga board game during christmas

        Christmas Day Board Games for a Holiday Bash

        1. Telestrations (2023 Edition) For the family who loves to laugh

        Telestrations is like a hilarious game of Telephone but with drawings. Each player starts by drawing a word or phrase, and as the drawing gets passed around, everyone tries to guess what it is. The results often lead to hilarious misunderstandings and plenty of laughter, making it a perfect game for a Christmas day bash.

        • Price: Affordable ($25-30)
        • Game length: 30 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: It’s easy to learn, hilarious, and can accommodate large groups. Perfect for breaking the ice at holiday parties.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        2. Just One (2024) For those who love word games

        Just One is a cooperative word game where players try to guess the secret word by writing down clues. But there’s a twist—if two players write the same clue, it’s erased! It’s fast-paced, great for quick rounds, and keeps everyone on their toes.

        • Price: Affordable ($20-25)
        • Game length: 20 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: It’s a simple but engaging game that’s great for all ages, ensuring everyone can join in the fun.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        3. Wavelength (2022) For the family who loves debates and discussions

        Wavelength is a party game of perspectives where players try to guess where a target is on a spectrum based on clues. The fun part? Debating and discussing how far you are from the target. It’s a game that sparks conversation, perfect for a festive family gathering.

        • Price: Mid-range ($30-40)
        • Game length: 30-45 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: It’s light-hearted, thought-provoking, and sparks lively debates, making it a great conversation starter for holiday gatherings.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        4. Coup (2024 Edition) For the family that loves bluffing and strategy

        Coup is a fast-paced card game where players try to eliminate their opponents through bluffing and strategic decisions. Each player controls a set of roles with unique abilities, and the goal is to outwit everyone else and be the last one standing. It’s perfect for families that love competitive and strategic games.

        • Price: Affordable ($10-15)
        • Game length: 15-20 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: It’s quick, strategic, and ideal for those who love bluffing games. Plus, it’s small enough to easily bring along to any holiday event.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        5. Pictionary Air (2023 Edition) For the artistic and tech-savvy family

        Pictionary Air takes the classic drawing game to the next level. Players draw in the air using a digital pen, while others watch the drawing appear on a screen. It’s a modern twist on a classic game and perfect for families who enjoy a blend of creativity and technology.

        • Price: Mid-range ($25-30)
        • Game length: 30 minutes
        • Why it’s perfect: It’s a fun and tech-savvy way to engage everyone at the party, offering plenty of laughs as players struggle to draw accurately in mid-air.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

        Affordable Stocking Stuffers: Fun Games for All the Family

        Looking for some pocket-sized fun that won’t break the bank? These affordable games make perfect stocking stuffers for the whole family! Easy to learn, quick to play, and small enough to fit into a Christmas stocking, these mini-games pack a lot of fun into a small box.

        1. Love Letter (2022 Edition)

        This quick and easy deduction game has players competing to deliver love letters to a princess while outwitting opponents. With just 16 cards, it’s a fast-paced game that offers surprising depth and replayability.

        • Price: $10-15
        • Why it’s perfect: It’s small, affordable, and super fun for both kids and adults.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        2. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza (2023)

        This quirky card game is all about speed and silliness. Players race to slap the matching card as it’s called out—if you hesitate, you’re out! It’s chaotic, fast, and full of laughs, making it a great fit for a family holiday.

        • Price: $10
        • Why it’s perfect: Compact, hilarious, and suitable for all ages.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        3. Skull (2021 Edition)

        A beautifully simple bluffing game, Skull is all about reading your opponents and taking risks. It comes in a small tin with gorgeous cards, making it a stylish and portable game for holiday fun.

        • Price: $12-15
        • Why it’s perfect: Easy to learn, stylish, and perfect for quick rounds with family.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        4. Exploding Kittens (2024)

        This quick card game is a mix of strategy, luck, and “explosive” fun. Players draw cards until someone pulls an exploding kitten—but you can defuse it if you’re lucky! It’s silly, quick, and perfect for casual family gatherings.

        • Price: $15-20
        • Why it’s perfect: Fun for all ages and small enough to take anywhere.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon

         

        5. Bananagrams (2024 Edition)

        For word game lovers, Bananagrams is a fast-paced, Scrabble-like game where players race to build word grids. It’s portable, easy to play, and comes in a banana-shaped pouch that fits perfectly in any stocking.

        • Price: $10-15
        • Why it’s perfect: A fun, educational game that’s great for all ages and quick to set up.
        • 👉 Buy on Amazon
        close up of Christmas decorations next to a board game board

        Conclusion

        From strategy-filled adventures to lighthearted party games, this gift guide has something for every family member, partner, and friend this Christmas. Whether you’re shopping for kids, teens, or relatives, these games offer a range of experiences that will bring everyone together around the table for laughter and fun.

        So, why wait? Snag one (or a few) of these fantastic games and turn your Christmas into an unforgettable game night! Don’t forget to comment with your favorite games and check out our store for the latest holiday deals.

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