Top 10 Must-Have Board Games for an Epic Christmas 2016
The best board games for Christmas 2016 include Codenames, Pandemic, and Ticket to Ride. Perfect for family game night!
With Christmas just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about what gifts to buy for your loved ones. If you're looking for a gift that will provide hours of entertainment and bring the family together, then board games are the perfect choice. There are countless board games on the market, each with its unique theme, gameplay, and mechanics. However, only a few stand out as the best board games for Christmas 2016. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of these games, highlighting their features and why they're worth playing.
First on our list is Codenames, a word game that challenges players to deduce the identities of secret agents based on one-word clues given by their teammates. This game is perfect for both small and large groups and is easy to learn but difficult to master. The game's simple components make it an excellent choice for families with children, and the fast-paced gameplay ensures that everyone stays engaged from start to finish.
If you're looking for something a little more strategic, then Pandemic Legacy: Season 1 is the game for you. This cooperative game puts players in the roles of disease-fighting specialists tasked with saving the world from a deadly outbreak. The game's legacy format means that each playthrough has permanent consequences, ensuring that no two games are ever the same. With its high stakes and challenging gameplay, Pandemic Legacy is sure to be a hit with gamers of all levels.
For those who enjoy a good mystery, Mysterium is the perfect game. In this cooperative game, one player takes on the role of a ghost trying to communicate with the other players to solve a murder mystery. The game's unique mechanics and beautiful artwork make it a standout choice for any game night. Plus, the game's variable difficulty settings mean that it can be enjoyed by players of all experience levels.
If you're looking for a game that's both hilarious and challenging, then Spyfall is the perfect choice. This social deduction game puts players in the roles of spies trying to figure out who among them is the traitor. The catch? Only the traitor doesn't know where they are! With its quick rounds and easy-to-learn rules, Spyfall is perfect for parties or family game nights.
For fans of classic board games, Ticket to Ride: Rails and Sails is a must-have. This updated version of the popular train game features new mechanics and components that take players on a journey across the world's oceans and seas. With its beautiful artwork and engaging gameplay, Ticket to Ride: Rails and Sails is sure to be a hit with both new and veteran players alike.
If you're looking for a game that's both educational and fun, then Evolution: The Origin of Species is the perfect choice. This game puts players in the roles of animal species trying to survive and thrive in a changing environment. With its focus on scientific concepts like natural selection and adaptation, Evolution is perfect for families or classrooms looking to learn while having fun.
For those who enjoy a good party game, Telestrations is the perfect choice. This drawing game puts players in the roles of artists and guessers, with hilarious results. The game's simple mechanics and quick rounds make it perfect for parties, and the fact that no artistic talent is required means that everyone can join in on the fun.
If you're looking for a game that's both strategic and beautiful, then Santorini is the perfect choice. This abstract strategy game puts players in the roles of Greek gods trying to build the most beautiful island city. With its gorgeous components and challenging gameplay, Santorini is sure to be a hit with gamers of all levels.
For those who enjoy a good trivia game, Wits and Wagers is the perfect choice. This party game challenges players to answer trivia questions and bet on the answers of others. With its fast-paced gameplay and easy-to-learn rules, Wits and Wagers is perfect for parties or family game nights.
Finally, for fans of cooperative games, Forbidden Island is a must-have. This game puts players in the roles of adventurers trying to escape a sinking island before it's too late. With its unique mechanics and challenging gameplay, Forbidden Island is perfect for families or groups looking to work together to achieve a common goal.
Overall, there are countless board games to choose from this Christmas season. Whether you're looking for something strategic, hilarious, educational, or beautiful, there's sure to be a game that's perfect for you and your loved ones. So why not add one of these best board games for Christmas 2016 to your shopping list today?
Introduction
Christmas is a time for family, friends and fun. What better way to celebrate than by bringing out some board games? Here are some of the best board games for Christmas 2016 that are sure to keep everyone entertained.
Codenames
Codenames is a game of deduction and strategy. Players split into two teams and take turns giving clues to help their teammates guess the correct words on the table. The catch? The words are represented by codenames, and one wrong guess can lead to disaster. This game is easy to learn and quick to play, making it perfect for parties.
Betrayal at Baldur's Gate
This Dungeons & Dragons-themed game takes players on a spooky adventure through the city of Baldur's Gate. Players work together to explore haunted locations, but eventually, one player will betray the group and become the villain. The game includes multiple scenarios, so every playthrough is different.
Splendor
Splendor is a strategic game of gem-collecting and card-buying. Players compete to become the most successful merchant by buying cards with gems and earning prestige points. The game is simple to learn but has enough depth to keep players engaged for hours.
Scythe
Scythe is a complex strategy game set in an alternate-history 1920s Europe. Players control factions vying for power and resources in a world of mechs, airships and other advanced technology. The game features gorgeous artwork and highly-detailed miniatures, making it a great choice for gamers who love immersive experiences.
Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a classic game that's easy to learn and hard to put down. Players collect train cards and use them to claim routes on a map of the United States, earning points for completing specific routes. The game is suitable for all ages and can be played with two to five players.
Photosynthesis
This visually-stunning game has players growing trees in a forest and competing for sunlight. Players take turns planting seeds, growing trees and collecting sunlight to earn points. The game's unique mechanics and beautiful design make it a great choice for nature-lovers and gamers alike.
Betrayal at Baldur's Gate
This Dungeons & Dragons-themed game takes players on a spooky adventure through the city of Baldur's Gate. Players work together to explore haunted locations, but eventually, one player will betray the group and become the villain. The game includes multiple scenarios, so every playthrough is different.
Catan
Catan is a classic board game that's been around for over 20 years. Players compete to build settlements, cities and roads on an island while trading resources and avoiding the robber. The game is easy to learn but has enough depth to keep players coming back for more.
King of Tokyo
This fast-paced game has players taking on the roles of monsters fighting for control of Tokyo. Players roll dice to attack each other and gain points, with the winner being the first to reach 20 points or the last monster standing. The game is quick to play and perfect for groups of all sizes.
Pandemic
Pandemic is a cooperative game where players work together to stop the spread of a deadly disease. Players take on different roles with unique abilities and try to cure the disease before it wipes out humanity. The game's tense gameplay and high stakes make it a perfect choice for gamers who love a challenge.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the best board games for Christmas 2016. Whether you're looking for a quick game to play with friends or a complex strategy game to sink your teeth into, there's something here for everyone. So gather your family and friends around the table and let the games begin!
As the holiday season approaches, many families are starting to plan their Christmas activities. One popular pastime that has stood the test of time is board games. Whether you're looking for a classic game that has been enjoyed for generations or a new, modern game to challenge your family and friends, there is something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best board games for Christmas 2016.1. Classic Board Games: Timeless Fun for the Whole Family
There's a reason why classic board games have been around for so long - they're fun! These games are perfect for families who want to spend quality time together without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best classic board games for Christmas 2016:Monopoly
Monopoly is a timeless classic that has been enjoyed for generations. The game is all about buying and selling properties, collecting rent, and trying to bankrupt your opponents. It's perfect for families who love a little friendly competition.Scrabble
Scrabble is a word game that challenges players to create words using letter tiles. It's a great way to improve your vocabulary and spelling skills while having fun with friends and family.Clue
Clue is a murder-mystery game that requires players to solve a crime by gathering clues and making deductions. It's perfect for families who love a good mystery and enjoy working together to solve problems.2. Cooperative Games: Work Together to Beat the Board
Cooperative games are a great way to promote teamwork and collaboration among family members. These games require players to work together to achieve a common goal. Here are some of the best cooperative games for Christmas 2016:Pandemic
Pandemic is a game where players work together to stop the spread of a deadly disease across the world. It's a great way to teach kids about global health issues while promoting teamwork and problem-solving skills.Forbidden Island
Forbidden Island is another cooperative game where players work together to retrieve treasures from a sinking island. It's a great way to promote critical thinking and communication skills among family members.3. Trivia Games: Put Your Knowledge to the Test
Trivia games are perfect for families who love to learn new things and put their knowledge to the test. These games challenge players to answer questions about a variety of topics. Here are some of the best trivia games for Christmas 2016:Trivial Pursuit
Trivial Pursuit is a classic trivia game that has been around for decades. The game challenges players to answer questions in six different categories: geography, entertainment, history, arts and literature, science and nature, and sports and leisure.Wits and Wagers
Wits and Wagers is a trivia game with a twist. Instead of answering questions, players bet on the answers given by other players. It's a great way to make the game more interactive and engaging for everyone.4. Party Games: Laugh Out Loud Fun for Large Groups
Party games are perfect for large groups of people who want to have some laughs and enjoy each other's company. These games are usually fast-paced and easy to learn. Here are some of the best party games for Christmas 2016:Telestrations
Telestrations is a game of drawing and guessing. Players take turns drawing a word or phrase, then passing their drawing to the next player, who must guess what the drawing represents. It's a great way to get everyone laughing and having fun.Codenames
Codenames is a game of espionage and deduction. Players split into two teams, with each team trying to guess the code names of their agents while avoiding the code names of the opposing team's agents. It's a great way to promote teamwork and critical thinking skills.5. Strategy Games: Outwit Your Opponents to Claim Victory
Strategy games are perfect for families who love to think ahead and outsmart their opponents. These games require players to plan out their moves carefully and make strategic decisions. Here are some of the best strategy games for Christmas 2016:Catan
Catan is a game of trading and resource management. Players take turns building settlements and cities, trading resources, and trying to accumulate victory points. It's a great way to promote critical thinking and negotiation skills.Chess
Chess is a game of strategy and skill that has been enjoyed for centuries. The game requires players to move their pieces strategically in order to capture their opponent's king. It's a great way to develop problem-solving and planning skills.6. Card Games: Quick and Addictive Fun for Everyone
Card games are perfect for families who want a quick and easy game to play together. These games are usually fast-paced and easy to learn. Here are some of the best card games for Christmas 2016:Uno
Uno is a classic card game that has been around for decades. The game requires players to match cards based on color or number, with the goal of getting rid of all their cards first.Exploding Kittens
Exploding Kittens is a card game that combines strategy and luck. Players take turns drawing cards from a deck, trying to avoid the exploding kitten cards. It's a great way to get everyone laughing and having fun.7. Word Games: Challenge Your Vocabulary and Spelling Skills
Word games are perfect for families who want to improve their vocabulary and spelling skills while having fun together. These games challenge players to create words using letter tiles or guess words based on clues. Here are some of the best word games for Christmas 2016:Bananagrams
Bananagrams is a fast-paced word game where players race to create words using letter tiles. It's a great way to improve your vocabulary and spelling skills while having fun with family and friends.Scattergories
Scattergories is a game where players must come up with words that fit into specific categories based on a letter chosen at random. It's a great way to challenge your creativity and quick thinking skills.8. Puzzle Games: Exercise Your Brain with Challenging Tasks
Puzzle games are perfect for families who want to exercise their brains and challenge themselves with difficult tasks. These games usually require players to solve puzzles or complete challenges in order to win. Here are some of the best puzzle games for Christmas 2016:Jenga
Jenga is a game where players take turns removing blocks from a tower and placing them on top, without causing the tower to collapse. It's a great way to promote concentration and problem-solving skills.Rubik's Cube
Rubik's Cube is a classic puzzle game that has been around for decades. The goal is to solve the cube by rotating the sides until each side is one solid color. It's a great way to challenge your spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills.9. Role-Playing Games: Dive into New Worlds and Characters
Role-playing games are perfect for families who want to dive into new worlds and characters and explore their imaginations. These games usually require players to create their own characters and make decisions based on the game's storyline. Here are some of the best role-playing games for Christmas 2016:Dungeons and Dragons
Dungeons and Dragons is a classic role-playing game where players create their own characters and embark on quests together. It's a great way to promote creativity and teamwork among family members.Pathfinder
Pathfinder is another popular role-playing game that allows players to create their own characters and go on adventures together. It's a great way to explore new worlds and develop problem-solving and decision-making skills.10. Family-Friendly Games: Keep the Kids Entertained for Hours
Finally, family-friendly games are perfect for keeping the kids entertained for hours on end. These games are usually easy to learn and fun for all ages. Here are some of the best family-friendly games for Christmas 2016:Sorry!
Sorry! is a classic board game that has been enjoyed by families for generations. The game requires players to move their pawns around the board, trying to get them home while avoiding obstacles and other players.Hedbanz
Hedbanz is a game of guessing and deduction. Players wear a headband with a card on it, then ask yes or no questions to try to guess what their card says. It's a great way to promote critical thinking and deductive reasoning skills.In conclusion, board games are a great way to spend quality time with family and friends during the holiday season. Whether you're looking for a classic game that has been enjoyed for generations or a new, modern game to challenge your family and friends, there is something for everyone. So gather around the table, pick a game, and let the fun begin!Best Board Games for Christmas 2016
Introduction
Christmas is a time when families come together to celebrate and have fun. Board games are a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones, and there are plenty of options available for 2016. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best board games for Christmas 2016.Comparison Table
| Game Title | Players | Age Range | Playing Time | Price || --- | --- | --- | --- | --- || Codenames | 2-8 | 14+ | 15 minutes | $15 || Scythe | 1-5 | 14+ | 90-115 minutes | $80 || Ticket to Ride: Rails & Sails | 2-5 | 10+ | 120-150 minutes | $80 || Pandemic Legacy: Season 1 | 2-4 | 13+ | 60 minutes per session (12-24 sessions) | $70 || Captain Sonar | 2-8 | 14+ | 45-60 minutes | $50 |Pros and Cons
Codenames
Pros:
- Easy to learn
- Quick gameplay
- Can be played with a large group
Cons:
- May not be challenging enough for experienced gamers
- Requires a good knowledge of vocabulary
Scythe
Pros:
- Beautifully designed game board and pieces
- Immersive gameplay
- Can be played solo or with a group
Cons:
- Expensive price tag
- Complex rules may be overwhelming for some players
Ticket to Ride: Rails & Sails
Pros:
- Combines elements of strategy and luck
- Can be played with a large group
- Includes two different game boards for variety
Cons:
- Long playing time may not be suitable for all players
- May require multiple playthroughs to fully understand strategy
Pandemic Legacy: Season 1
Pros:
- Unique storyline that evolves over multiple play sessions
- Cooperative gameplay encourages teamwork
- Challenging and engaging gameplay
Cons:
- Requires a dedicated group of players to complete entire game
- Expensive price tag for a single game
Captain Sonar
Pros:
- Fast-paced, team-based gameplay
- Unique submarine theme
- Can be played with a large group
Cons:
- May be confusing for some players to understand at first
- Requires a lot of communication between teammates
Conclusion
Board games are a great way to spend time with family and friends during the holiday season. Whether you're looking for a quick game or a more immersive experience, there is something for everyone in this list of the best board games for Christmas 2016. From the easy-to-learn Codenames to the complex and challenging Pandemic Legacy: Season 1, these games are sure to provide hours of entertainment for players of all ages.The Best Board Games for Christmas 2016
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to start thinking about the perfect gifts for your loved ones. If you're looking for something that will bring the family together and provide hours of entertainment, look no further than board games. Here are some of the best board games for Christmas 2016:
1. Codenames
Codenames is a game of spies and secret agents. Players work in teams to identify their agents among a grid of codenames. It's a game of strategy, deduction, and teamwork, and it's perfect for groups of four or more.
2. Pandemic Legacy
Pandemic Legacy is a cooperative game in which players work together to stop the spread of deadly diseases. The game evolves over time, with each play affecting the next. It's a great game for families or groups of friends who enjoy working together to solve problems.
3. Ticket to Ride: Rails & Sails
Ticket to Ride: Rails & Sails is a beautifully designed game in which players compete to build the best train and ship routes across the world. It's a game of strategy and planning, and it's perfect for families or groups of friends who enjoy a little friendly competition.
4. Scythe
Scythe is a game of strategy and combat set in an alternate history version of Europe. Players control factions competing for resources and control of territory. It's a complex game that rewards careful planning and strategic thinking, and it's perfect for experienced gamers.
5. Splendor
Splendor is a game of strategy and resource management. Players collect gems to purchase cards that increase their wealth and prestige. It's a simple game to learn but difficult to master, and it's perfect for families or groups of friends who enjoy a little friendly competition.
6. Betrayal at Baldur's Gate
Betrayal at Baldur's Gate is a game of horror and adventure set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe. Players explore a haunted mansion while battling monsters and solving puzzles. It's a game of strategy, luck, and storytelling, and it's perfect for fans of D&D or horror-themed games.
7. Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis is a beautifully designed game in which players compete to grow the most trees and earn the most sunlight. It's a game of strategy and resource management, and it's perfect for families or groups of friends who enjoy a little friendly competition.
8. Sagrada
Sagrada is a game of strategy and puzzle-solving. Players compete to create the most beautiful stained glass windows by placing colored dice in their grid. It's a simple game to learn but difficult to master, and it's perfect for families or groups of friends who enjoy a little friendly competition.
9. Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars is a game of strategy and resource management set in the future. Players compete to terraform Mars by raising the temperature, adding oxygen, and creating oceans. It's a complex game that rewards careful planning and strategic thinking, and it's perfect for experienced gamers.
10. Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is a game of strategy and combat set in a fantasy world. Players control characters on a quest to defeat monsters and complete missions. It's a complex game that rewards careful planning and strategic thinking, and it's perfect for experienced gamers.
These are just a few of the best board games for Christmas 2016. Whether you're looking for something simple and family-friendly or complex and challenging, there's a board game out there that's perfect for you. So gather your family and friends, break out the snacks, and get ready for some fun and games this holiday season!
People Also Ask About Best Board Games for Christmas 2016
What are the best board games for families?
The best board games for families include:
- Settlers of Catan
- Ticket to Ride
- Pandemic
- Carcassonne
- Sequence
What are the best board games for adults?
The best board games for adults include:
- Codenames
- Scythe
- Gloomhaven
- Terraforming Mars
- Dead of Winter
What are the best board games for kids?
The best board games for kids include:
- Uno
- Jenga
- Sorry!
- Chutes and Ladders
- Mouse Trap
What are the best classic board games?
The best classic board games include:
- Monopoly
- Clue
- Chess
- Checkers
- Backgammon
What are the best strategy board games?
The best strategy board games include:
- Risk
- Axis and Allies
- Diplomacy
- Twilight Struggle
- 7 Wonders
What are the best party board games?
The best party board games include:
- Cards Against Humanity
- Telestrations
- Wits and Wagers
- Apples to Apples
- One Night Ultimate Werewolf