4 minute read

Adult board games are fun and educational for children, and as such they are widely used in schools. It’s hard to imagine how anyone could oppose allowing children to play board games in their homes without being accused of being anti-education.

However, board game advocates are well aware of the fact that this doesn’t mean that we are ‘anti-education.’ Our main purpose is to create games that are fun, educational and accessible to a broad range of people. Board games can be used in schools as part of their curricula, but that doesn’t mean they are compulsory. That would be a huge step backward from the role board games have been allowed to play in society.

To quote one of my favorite board games, “The game of war is no longer played for pleasure, it is played to win.” Board games are played to win. But if you’re playing a game for fun then the game is not fun and you should leave. That’s a lot of hard work to make a fun game for your friends.

I say “games should be fun” but I don’t mean to imply that if you want to play a game for fun you have to make your game “fun”. If you want to make a game “fun” you have to understand what makes a game fun. What makes a game fun for me? It’s about having fun. It’s about trying new things. It’s about seeing a good game through from start to finish. What makes a game fun for you?

It’s about doing the things you love to do, whether it’s watching a film or playing a game. It’s about your friends. It’s about people you don’t know but you think you know them. It’s about all the different things you might not know about the characters you love to watch. It’s about the moments when you find out you’re the person they thought you were. How do you think people respond to that? It is about enjoying things for the fun they are. You can be happy or sad or angry, but if you’re just watching for the joy it brings, then you’re missing something. Do you believe it’s possible to have fun in all things?

Why Should Adults Play Board Games?

Board games aren’t just for kids, they’re also a fantastic way for adults to socialize, learn new skills, and unwind. Here are just a few reasons why adults should dive into the world of board gaming:

1. Social Interaction

In a world dominated by digital communication, board games offer a refreshing way to connect with others face-to-face. Whether you’re working as a team or competing against each other, board games provide a unique social experience that can strengthen relationships and create lasting memories.

2. Mental Stimulation

Many board games require strategic thinking, problem-solving, and quick decision-making, which can help keep your mind sharp. Games like chess or Scrabble challenge your cognitive abilities and can even improve your IQ over time. Plus, it’s a lot more fun than doing a Sudoku puzzle!

3. Stress Relief

After a long day at work, there’s nothing quite like sitting down with friends or family for a relaxing game night. Board games are a great way to unwind and de-stress, providing a much-needed escape from the pressures of daily life. Just be sure to avoid Monopoly if you’re playing with competitive friends!

4. Learning Opportunities

Board games can teach valuable life skills such as teamwork, negotiation, and resource management. They also offer a fun way to learn about new topics, from history and geography to science and literature. Games like Trivial Pursuit or Pandemic can make learning feel like a game (because it is!).

5. Entertainment Value

Let’s face it: board games are just plain fun. Whether you’re laughing at the absurdity of Cards Against Humanity or strategizing your next move in Settlers of Catan, board games offer endless entertainment possibilities. They’re a great way to spend an evening, whether you’re hosting a game night or just looking for something to do on a rainy day.

Top Board Games for Adults

Ready to dive into the world of adult board gaming? Here are some of our top recommendations:

1. Codenames

A social word game where two teams compete to see who can make contact with all of their agents first. It’s a game of wit, strategy, and a bit of luck.

2. Ticket to Ride

A classic game of railway adventure where players collect cards to claim railway routes across North America. It’s simple to learn but offers plenty of strategic depth.

3. Carcassonne

A tile-placement game where players build a medieval landscape, complete with cities, roads, and fields. It’s a game of strategy and foresight, perfect for those who love planning ahead.

4. Settlers of Catan

A game of trading, building, and expansion set on the island of Catan. Players must gather resources, trade with others, and build their settlements to gain victory points.

5. Pandemic

A cooperative game where players work together to stop the spread of global pandemics. It’s a game of teamwork and strategic planning, perfect for those who love a good challenge.

For more great board game recommendations, check out our post on Top 10 Racing Board Games.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the world of board games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So gather your friends, grab some snacks, and get ready for a night of fun and laughter. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun!

Call to Action: Ready to start your board game adventure? Check out these games on Geeknite’s Board Games Section and find the perfect addition to your collection today!

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