We’re not sure what some people would do nowadays if they didn’t have video games to keep them occupied. A few decades ago, home consoles didn’t even exist. If you wanted to play something, you either had to use your imagination or pull out a board game. These options have admittedly become less popular over time, but that doesn’t mean they’re not still a great way to pass the time. Board games, in particular, are a real joy to play when you’ve got friends over.
Monopoly
Before friendships were being destroyed over things like Fortnite, they were being ripped apart by Monopoly. The board game brings out the worst in people, but that’s why it’s so much fun to play. You get to go around buying properties before other people and making them afraid to land on your spaces. There’s nothing like having someone end on Park Place or Boardwalk after you’ve decked them out with hotels galore. They might hate you for bankrupting them, but what does that matter when you’re filthy rich?
Articulate
Articulate is a classic game which tests how well you can work with your friends. In pairs, you have to try and describe the word on your card while your buddy attempts to guess it. The word could be the name of a celebrity, a well-known landmark, or some obscure item you’ve never heard of before. The more correct guesses you get before the time runs out, the more you advance on the board. It’s frustrating, hilarious, and sure to bring out the competitive side in everyone.
Bananagrams
If you love scrabble but want a game that takes it to new levels, then Bananagrams is for you. Much like the original, it requires you to make words out of letter tiles. However, rather than taking things in turns, everyone plays at once as they fight to be the champion. Speed is of the essence here as you attempt to make words left, right, and center until you’re all out of letters. There’s no board restricting you here, so you’re free to place things where you want. Just remember that the words still have to be real.
Cluedo
Another classic that’s great to play with friends is Cluedo. Who doesn’t want to feel like they’re in a Miss Marple novel when they’re chilling out with their buddies? Cluedo tasks players with interrogating each other to work out which character committed a crime, what weapon they used, and what room they did it in. You want to work out the answers before everyone else so you can be victorious, but that’s often easier said than done. It all depends on your powers of deduction.
Ticket to Ride
If you’re a train buff, or you simply want something fun to finish off your evening, why not pull out Ticket to Ride. The aim of the game is to complete as many routes as possible while hoping your competitors don’t cut you off. How successful you are depends on whether or not you can collect the right amount of colored cards to match the lines you want to take. Winning Ticket to Ride often requires you to be strategic, so if you enjoy putting yourself to the test, you’ll probably love this board game.
While there are plenty of great video games designed for groups of friends, sometimes you can’t beat the old school format. These will never let you down, even when the power goes out.