My Favorite Board Games and Why I Keep Coming Back to Them

   There’s a certain nostalgic feeling to opening up a favorite board game that you often played as a child. When you pull out the games to share it with others to play, you begin building up a new set of memories, while also reliving the past but still enjoying the present. Over the years, I’ve played dozens of board games—but there are a few I always go back to. They’re the ones I reach for again and again, whether I’m playing with family, friends, or introducing someone new to the hobby.

   Here are some of my personal favorites—and why they keep making it back to the table.

1. Uno

  

It’s a classic! Uno is endlessly replayable and beautifully simple. I have several memories of playing it with my family, as a child. And when I started my own family, I taught my son how to play it and he’s won quite a few hands since learning! It not only teaches kids about numbers and colors, but also how to build that hand dexterity, trying to hold all those cards! 😆 

2. Scrabble

As someone who loves words, this game is right up my alley. It has a peaceful, yet brainy vibe to it, having to think up the spelling of words so you can make a play. This game can take far too long if you are impatient, but it is good for the mind and can become silly if you allow it! Especially if you add a rule that you can only choose words based on a theme. It can become ridiculous but fun!

3.  Pictionary

Dusting off the artistic ability, whether you have it or not, this game requires a fast drawing pace and an imagination! It makes me laugh *and* think. This word-association party game is always a hit, especially with larger groups. I love guessing on others drawings, hoping to score a point for the team! It’s clever, quick, and just chaotic enough to be a crowd-pleaser.

4. Sorry!

This game is silly, clever, and perfect for families. The theme is to get from start to home, but with all the possibilities of sliding, colliding, and getting sent back to start. It will literally have you saying “sorry!” to the other opponents, but in a funny, competitive, way! Plus you get to choose your favorite color as your pawn so you know winning will be on your side. 😉

More than just a little time waster (haha) these games have brought me closer to the people I play with. They’ve sparked conversations, healthy rivalries, and lots of laughter. Some have helped teach kids planning and patience; others have helped me unwind after a long week.

What About You?

I’d love to hear what games have made your favorites list. What do you keep going back to?

 Let me know in the comments or share your all-time favorite game night memories!