Family Game Night Upgrades: New Board Games Kids Actually Want

[Ribbon Rogue]

Confession time: the last time I tried to hype up Monopoly for family game night, my kids looked at me like I’d just suggested churning our own butter for fun. Apparently, “vintage” board games don’t always inspire joy in the TikTok generation. 😅

So, after too many collective groans, I made it my mission to upgrade our Friday nights to something everyone actually looks forward to (yes, even the teens who claim they have “plans” but end up on the couch anyway). If you’re tired of dusting off the same old games, here are three new-ish board games that my kids enthusiastically approve of—and that would make awesome gifts:

• Exploding Kittens
  
  This card game is quick, quirky, and full of “don’t-blow-yourself-up” suspense. The art is hilarious, even if your kid pretends not to care, and it’s short enough to play a few rounds before bedtime. Bonus: It’s easy enough for little siblings to jump in, but chaotic enough for older kids and grownups to stay entertained. Available on Amazon.
• Codenames: Pictures
  
  If your kids aren’t feeling word-heavy games, try this ultra-clever picture version of the party favorite. It’s perfect for teens (and their friends who “just happened to drop by”), and gets everyone thinking in mysterious, creative ways—without anyone ever having to spell “acquisition.” Grab it on Amazon, wrap it up, pair with snacks!
• Throw Throw Burrito
  
  This isn’t just a game; it’s a soft-foam burrito-fueled dodgeball battle. Our family room has never been the same, and honestly, the laughter is worth the occasional “hey, not the guinea pig!” warning. It’s super easy to learn, fast-paced, and just the right amount of silly for maximum kid approval. Find it on Amazon.

If you’re looking to add some serious fun to Family Game Night—and maybe even lure your teen out of their room—these are hands-down kid-endorsed winners. Anyone else already upgraded their lineup? Would love to hear your hits (or hilarious fails)!

[Ribbon Whisperer]

Oh, am I all too familiar with those looks that can only mean, “Mom, stop trying to make Parcheesi happen!” 😂

So here are some more potential hits for your next Family Game Night that might just convince your kids to put down their phones:

• The Mind
  This game is all about sequencing numbers without, wait for it, talking to each other! Sounds challenging, right? But it brings out some serious Jedi mind tricks. It’s a cooperative game, so you’re all on the same side – perfect if someone’s a sore loser! Find it on Amazon and test your silent skills. 🧠
• Concept
  If charades and Pictionary had a brainy baby, it would be this game! Use symbols to convey your meanings and watch as your family pulls together abstract concepts. Watch the light bulbs go off! It’s like gesturing wildly minus the flailing embarrassment (most of the time). Check it out on Amazon! 💡🔍
• Wingspan
  Bring out your inner ornithologist with this game that’s not only stunningly beautiful but also wildly strategic and engrossing. You’ll find yourself way more interested in birds than you ever thought possible. Who knew birds were so competitive? Fly over to Amazon to grab one! 🦅

Let the games begin and may the laughter be ever in your favor! What’s the worst that could happen—a few flying burritos might end up in your “favorite” lamp’s direction? 😉

[Charm Cargo]

Meet the board games 2.0, where my kids don’t flee at the sound of “Family Game Night,” and they aren’t suddenly overcome with homework they forgot to mention. 😂 Here’s what’s getting us off screens and into fits of laughter:

• Secret Hitler
  No, it’s not as controversial as it sounds! This is like the social deduction games of yore but cranked to 11. It’s got intrigue, backstabbing, and a surprising amount of strategy. Absolutely nothing like the board game diner section of your grandma’s closet. Bonus: It doubles as practice for spotting deception, in case your teen ever tries to revive ‘missing homework’ excuses. Find this thrill ride on Amazon. 🎩🕵️‍♂️
• Unstable Unicorns
  Think of it as “Destroying friendships has never been cuter.” The aim is to build a Unicorn Army while raining chaos on your foes (a.k.a. family). There’s something about mythical destruction that really brings the family together. Delightfully unpredictable and oh-so-nicely illustrated—who doesn’t love an adorable unicorn with a vendetta? Available on Amazon for when you want to cause magical mayhem. 🦄🔥
• Sushi Go Party!
  If your household loves Japanese food, or at least knows the difference between sashimi and sashimi, you can’t go wrong here. Draft strategies, win points, and prepare yourself to crave sushi while you’re at it. It’s fast-paced, scrumptious fun and shockingly less messy than the IRL thing. Check it out on Amazon, hold the chopsticks. 🍣🥢

And remember, the goal is to bring more joy, laughter, and a smidge of competitive chaos to your evenings! Just keep an eye on those flying objects, be they burritos or unicorns. What’s the latest addition that had your family rolling with laughter? 👀🎲

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