There’s nothing quite like a fun-filled family game night! Whether you're looking for laughs, strategy, or a little friendly competition, board games bring people together in the best way possible. In Australia, the love for board games is stronger than ever, with classics and new favourites alike gracing tables across the country.
To help you pick the perfect game for your next gathering, here’s our list of the top 10 board games in Australia for family game night.
1. Catan
A true modern classic, Catan (formerly The Settlers of Catan) is a game of strategy, trading, and resource management. Players collect and trade resources to build roads, settlements, and cities, aiming to be the first to reach 10 victory points. It’s the perfect mix of luck and skill, making it a favourite for families who love a challenge.
2. Ticket to Ride
Easy to learn and incredibly engaging, Ticket to Ride takes players on a cross-country adventure where they must claim railway routes across a map. With different editions featuring maps of the USA, Europe, and even Asia, this game is great for travel lovers and budding strategists alike.
3. Uno
A family game night staple, Uno is a fast-paced card game filled with twists and turns. The goal is simple—get rid of all your cards before your opponents, but with wild cards, reversals, and +4s in play, anything can happen!
4. Dobble
For families who love quick reflex games, Dobble (known as Spot It! in some regions) is a must-have. This fast-paced matching game is easy to learn but keeps everyone on their toes, making it perfect for players of all ages.
5. Monopoly: Australian Edition
A classic that needs no introduction, Monopoly has been entertaining families for generations. The Australian edition features iconic locations from Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef, adding a local touch to the world-famous property-trading game.
6. Exploding Kittens
This hilarious and unpredictable card game has become a modern favourite. Players take turns drawing cards, hoping to avoid the dreaded Exploding Kitten. With quirky artwork and laugh-out-loud gameplay, it’s a hit with families who enjoy a bit of chaos.
7. Throw Throw Burrito
A mix of a card game and dodgeball, Throw Throw Burrito is pure fun and chaos. Players collect matching sets of cards while also dodging (or throwing) soft foam burritos at each other. It’s a fantastic choice for active families looking for something beyond the typical board game experience.
8. Scrabble
A timeless classic, Scrabble is perfect for word lovers and competitive families. Players score points by forming words on a grid, testing both vocabulary and strategy. The game is a great way to keep kids learning while still having fun.
9. Azul
For those who love beautiful, visually striking games, Azul is a masterpiece. Players take turns selecting coloured tiles to create stunning mosaic patterns while competing for the highest score. It’s a relaxing yet strategic game that appeals to all ages.
10. Pictionary
No family game night is complete without a bit of drawing and guessing! Pictionary is a hilarious party game where players sketch out words while their teammates attempt to guess them. Whether you’re an artist or can barely draw a stick figure, it’s always a blast.
Wrap-Up
Whether you're after strategy, excitement, or just good old-fashioned family fun, these top 10 board games are sure to make your game nights unforgettable. From trading resources in Catan to dodging flying burritos, there's a game for every type of family.
What’s your favourite board game for family night? Let us know in the comments!