Board games have been a cornerstone of family entertainment for generations. They bring people together, spark laughter, and sometimes even ignite friendly competition. In Australia, the interest in board games has seen a significant resurgence, especially as families seek engaging indoor activities that everyone can enjoy. Whether it’s a rainy day or a weekend gathering, board games offer a perfect way to connect, learn, and have fun.
In this article, we’ll explore the best board games for families Australia has to offer, highlighting popular Australian games, and offering tips on choosing games that suit all ages and preferences.
Why Board Games Are Great for Families
Board games do more than just entertain. They offer numerous benefits for children and adults alike:
Enhance Cognitive Skills: Many games involve strategy, memory, and problem-solving. Games like chess, Scrabble, or even Australian games like “Ticket to Ride: Australia” stimulate critical thinking.
Encourage Social Interaction: Playing together fosters communication, patience, and teamwork.
Reduce Screen Time: In a world dominated by screens, board games provide a welcome break for family bonding.
Create Lasting Memories: Sharing laughs and friendly competition can strengthen family bonds and create unforgettable experiences.
With these benefits in mind, let’s explore some of the best board games for families in Australia.
Popular Board Games in Australia
When selecting the best board games for families Australia-wide, it’s essential to consider accessibility, age range, and entertainment value. Here are some standout options:
1. Ticket to Ride: Australia
A classic strategy game, Ticket to Ride challenges players to build train routes across Australia. It combines geography, strategy, and fun competition. The Australian map edition is perfect for families who want to explore the country virtually while enjoying quality gameplay.
2. Codenames
Codenames is a fantastic game for older kids and adults. It encourages teamwork and clever thinking as players give one-word clues to help their teammates guess the right cards. It’s fast-paced, exciting, and perfect for family game nights.
3. Carcassonne
This tile-placement game allows players to build cities, roads, and fields while strategically placing followers to score points. Carcassonne is simple enough for children but offers strategic depth that adults will love.
4. Splendor
Splendor is a game of resource management and strategy. Players act as Renaissance merchants collecting gems to purchase development cards. Its simple rules make it family-friendly, while the strategy keeps older players engaged.
Australian Games That Families Will Love
Australia has a growing board game scene, with many Australian games receiving international recognition. These games often feature unique themes, local culture, or innovative mechanics:
1. Forbidden Desert
From the creators of the classic game Forbidden Island, Forbidden Desert is an adventure game where players cooperate to recover ancient treasures from a sandstorm-stricken desert. Its cooperative nature makes it perfect for families who enjoy teamwork over competition.
2. Dice Throne: Australian Edition
A popular dice-battle game, Dice Throne combines strategy and luck. Some Australian editions include local heroes or iconic Australian references, making it a unique experience for local families.
3. Australian Trivia Games
Several trivia games focus on Australian history, geography, and pop culture. These are not only fun but educational, helping children and adults alike learn more about their country.
4. Wingspan: Oceania Expansion
While Wingspan is an internationally acclaimed game about birdwatching, the Oceania expansion brings in unique Australian games features, highlighting native bird species and adding depth to gameplay. It’s perfect for families who love nature and strategic card games.
How to Choose the Right Family Board Game
Selecting the perfect board game can sometimes feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing the best board games for families Australia offers:
Consider Age Range: Make sure the game is suitable for all family members. Some games have multiple age versions.
Game Duration: Choose games that match your family’s patience level. Shorter games are great for younger children, while longer strategic games can keep adults engaged.
Player Count: Check the recommended number of players. Some games are perfect for 2-4 players, while others can accommodate larger groups.
Interest and Theme: Consider what your family enjoys. Adventure, strategy, trivia, or cooperative games all offer unique experiences.
Replayability: Games that offer different outcomes every time keep family members coming back for more.
Benefits of Supporting Australian Games
By choosing Australian games, families not only enjoy local creativity but also support the domestic board game industry. These games often reflect Australian culture, wildlife, or geography, making gameplay educational and relatable. Additionally, Australian game developers often emphasize high-quality components and innovative mechanics, ensuring every game night is memorable.
Creating the Ultimate Family Game Night
Once you’ve chosen the right games, it’s time to set up the perfect family game night:
Schedule a Regular Night: Consistency helps create anticipation and makes game night a family tradition.
Create a Comfortable Setup: A spacious table, good lighting, and comfortable seating enhance the gaming experience.
Include Snacks and Drinks: Treats like popcorn, juice, or homemade snacks can make the night feel special.
Rotate Games: Keep things fresh by rotating between classic games and new Australian games.
Conclusion
Board games are more than just entertainment—they’re a tool for learning, bonding, and creating lasting memories. For families in Australia, the options are diverse, ranging from internationally recognized strategy games to innovative Australian games that reflect the country’s unique culture. By choosing thoughtfully and creating a fun, welcoming environment, family game nights can become an eagerly anticipated tradition.
So whether you’re exploring train routes across the Outback in Ticket to Ride: Australia, solving mysteries in Codenames, or learning about native wildlife in Wingspan: Oceania, there’s a perfect game waiting to bring joy to your family. Make game night a time for laughter, learning, and togetherness—Australia’s board game scene has never been more exciting.
