Interactive game consoles | Board | Board

Interactive game consoles give families and friends a shared way to play rather than leaving one person in control while everyone else watches. They may use touch, movement, physical pieces, voice commands, or shared controls to bring several players into the same experience. According to the Entertainment Software Association, 82% of parents who play video games also play with their children. Interactive games support this type of shared entertainment by making it easier for people of different ages and skill levels to compete, cooperate, and spend time together. In this article, we explain how interactive game consoles work, how they differ from traditional systems, and why they appeal to families. We also compare popular options, including Board, Nex Playground, Meta Quest, and Nintendo Switch 2. Key Takeaways  Interactive game consoles make screen time more social by asking players to move, talk, solve problems, or make decisions together. The best option depends on how your group likes to play, whether that means tabletop games, motion-based activities, virtual reality, or portable gaming. Simple controls, clear instructions, and flexible difficulty settings make it easier for players of all ages and skills to join the same game. Multiplayer design matters. Check how many people can play at once and whether each player needs a controller, phone, headset, or separate account. Board supports face-to-face play around one tabletop display, with no separate controllers, headsets, or player accounts required. Best interactive game consoles: Quick overview Each console supports a different type of interactive play. The comparison below covers the main experience, included content, starting price, and possible ongoing costs. Console Best for How players participate Included content Starting price Additional costs Board All ages, face-to-face play Touchscreen and physical game pieces around a shared tabletop display Seven games $399 Additional games sold separately; no subscription required Nex Playground Movement-based play for younger families Camera tracks body movements without handheld controllers Five starter games $299 Play Pass costs $49 for three months or $89 for 12 months Meta Quest 3S Immersive virtual reality play Head and hand tracking inside a 3D environment Headset and supported experiences $349.99 for 128GB Games sold separately; Meta Horizon+ is optional Nintendo Switch 2 Families that want a broad game library Handheld controls or local multiplayer on a TV Console hardware $449.99 Games and Nintendo Switch Online membership cost extra What Is an Interactive Game Console? An interactive game console is a gaming system that lets players participate through touch, movement, voice commands, mobile devices, physical components, or shared multiplayer controls. The goal isn’t only to play a game on a screen, but to create a more active and social experience. The experience can vary by console. Some systems use motion tracking to follow a player’s movements. Others use touchscreens, cameras, headsets, or connected mobile devices. Tabletop consoles may combine physical components with digital gameplay, while multiplayer systems may let several people answer questions, solve puzzles, or compete simultaneously. These systems are often easier for groups because they don’t always require advanced gaming skills. A player can join by moving, choosing an answer, placing an object, or following a simple prompt. That can make the experience more accessible to children, adults, and guests who don’t often play video games. Interactive game consoles offer people different ways to participate in the same activity. Depending on the system, players may move, talk, touch, collaborate, or compete together. Interactive Game Console vs. Traditional Gaming Console A traditional gaming console usually centers on a handheld controller and games designed for one player or a small group. An interactive game console may use movement, touch, voice, mobile devices, or physical pieces to give more people a way to join. Traditional consoles often require players to learn button combinations, menus, and game-specific controls. Interactive systems may ask someone to move, place an object, choose an answer, or follow a simple prompt. Children, adults, and guests who rarely play video games can take part without first learning a complex control scheme. Interactive consoles also change how people gather around a game. Players may face each other across a table, move around the room, compete in teams, or solve a problem together. Both console types support multiplayer games, but the best interactive systems place group participation and social contact at the center of play. Why Interactive Game Consoles Are Great for Families  Interactive game consoles give families one shared activity with ways to play that suit different ages, skill levels, and interests. Their main benefits include broader participation, shared experiences, and more active screen time. Encourage Everyone to Participate Interactive games often use familiar actions rather than complex controls. A player might tap an answer, move their body, speak a command, draw something, or place a piece on a surface. These actions give children, parents, grandparents, and guests clear ways to take part without getting lost in the mechanics. Despite perceptions of gaming as a young person’s activity, players aged 50 and older account for 28% of the U.S. gaming population. According to AARP, many of these older players value easy onboarding, adjustable difficulty, larger text, and controls that reduce distracting effects. Consoles that include these options can serve more family members without requiring separate games or devices. Game variety gives families room to choose activities that match the group. Trivia, strategy, word games, or puzzles may appeal to an older audience, more active games can bring in young adults, and movement or matching games can help younger children feel included and engaged. Create Shared Experiences Interactive gameplay gives family members something to respond to together. In 2025, 76% of U.S. adults said video games bring people together. A team may solve a puzzle, act out a clue, answer a question, or complete a physical challenge. Competitive games can also create playful rivalries without separating players into private, individual sessions. The shared activity gives people natural reasons to talk. Players discuss choices, celebrate wins, question unexpected results, and help someone who is learning the game. Those small exchanges become part of the entertainment rather than interruptions. About 3 in 5 children ages 5 to 17 say they want to play more video games with their parents. An interactive console gives parents and children a structured activity they can start together, even when they have different interests or gaming experiences. Make Screen Time More Interactive Passive screen time usually asks viewers to watch content without affecting what happens next, and it’s become the norm for many tech users. Children aged 8 and under spend about 2.5 hours a day on screens. Common Sense Media also reported that gaming time among young children rose 65% between 2020 and 2024.   Interactive consoles can allocate some of that time to shared play, movement, and decision-making rather than individual viewing because they require active input. Players make choices, react to prompts, move, solve problems, or work with someone else to advance. The type of participation depends on the game. A motion-based activity may get players off the couch, while a tabletop game may require live conversation and physical pieces. Trivia, drawing, and strategy games keep players involved through decisions and group discussion. Best interactive game consoles The right interactive game console depends on who wants to play, how many people need to join, and whether the group prefers tabletop games, movement, portable play, or immersive experiences. The consoles below cover several of the main ways families and friends can play together. 1. Board: Best for face-to-face family game nights Board is a face-to-face game console where physical pieces make a shared screen come alive. Players gather around its 24-inch touchscreen display, choose a game, and use custom pieces to move, solve, build, or compete together. The console is designed for families, friends, and mixed-age groups who want a shared activity rather than separate screens or controllers. Kids as young as 3 or 4 can jump in and participate in many of the games, but the library also has more challenging puzzle and strategy games for older kids and adults. It comes with  seven games and their physical pieces, with additional games sold separately. Unlike most consoles, Board has no subscription. Buy a game and you own it forever. Board recognizes each game-specific piece when a player places or moves it on the screen . The game then responds to that action, combining the feel of a physical board game with digital animation, sound, and feedback. Players can choose from strategy, action, arcade, and adventure games. Price: $399 2. Nex Playground: Best for movement-based play for younger families Nex Playground is a TV-connected console that uses a built-in camera to track body movement. Players control sports, dance, fitness, and character-based games without handheld controllers. Five starter games are included, and an optional Play Pass opens up access to the wider content catalog. Price: $299. Five games are included; Play Pass costs $49 for three months or $89 for 12 months. 3. Meta Quest: Best for immersive virtual reality play Meta Quest 3S is a standalone virtual reality headset that places one player inside a 3D game environment. Head and hand tracking let the player look, move, and interact from a first-person view. One headset works best for solo games or family play where players take turns. Some games support simultaneous multiplayer, but each player needs a separate headset. Meta also requires managed accounts for children ages 10 to 12. Price: $349.99 4. Nintendo Switch 2: Best for families that want a broad game library Nintendo Switch 2 is a hybrid console that works as a handheld system or connects to a TV. Its game library includes racing, sports, party, adventure, and solo titles. Local multiplayer depends on the game and the number of controllers available. It suits households that want interactive, side-by-side group games alongside more traditional console experiences. Price: $449.99. Games and an optional Nintendo Switch Online membership cost extra. What to Look for in an Interactive Game Console The right interactive game console should fit your family’s play style. Compare the full experience, not just the console price or technical specifications: Ease of use: Look for simple setup, clear menus, and controls that new players can understand quickly. A console should let the group start playing without a long tutorial or complicated account setup. Multiplayer options: Check how many players can play at once and whether each player needs a controller, phone, headset, or separate account. Shared-screen play keeps everyone focused on the same activity. Game variety: Review the full library for movement, trivia, puzzles, strategy, party games, and shorter arcade-style activities. A varied catalog gives the group options for different moods, interests, and attention spans. Age appropriateness: Check the recommended age for each game and the reading or coordination skills it requires. Simple prompts and adjustable difficulty can help children, adults, and older relatives play together. Customization and accessibility: Team modes, difficulty settings, player profiles, larger text, and flexible round lengths can make games work for more people. These options also help families adapt to play as children gain new skills. Long-term entertainment value: Compare the number of included games, the price of additional titles, update frequency, and any subscription fees. A console provides more value when it works for quick sessions, regular family nights, and larger gatherings. Why Board Stands Out as an Interactive Gaming Experience Board brings the feel of a board game and the responsiveness of a video game into one shared system. Its 24-inch touchscreen  display provides a common space for players to gather, while touch controls and physical pieces keep hands involved in the action. Unlike an iPad which only recognizes ten fingers, Board recognizes dozens of fingers and physical pieces, making it easier for families and groups to play at the same time.  Board also removes several barriers that can make group gaming difficult. Players don’t need separate controllers, headsets, or accounts. They can choose a game, place a piece, and begin playing within minutes. The game library supports various play types, including solo challenges, two-player competition, family activities, and party games. Board includes seven games, with additional titles available for individual purchase and no subscription. For families looking for a truly interactive game console, Board keeps play face-to-face. Children, parents, grandparents, and guests can talk, plan, compete, and react at the same table rather than using separate screens.  Explore Board and browse its game library to find an option for your next family game night. Interactive Game Console FAQs What is the best interactive game console? The best interactive game console depends on who will play and what type of experience they enjoy. Board is a strong option for families and groups that want face-to-face play around one shared surface. Other consoles may suit motion games, handheld play, or virtual reality. Compare the game library, player count, age range, controls, price, and any ongoing subscription costs before choosing. Are interactive game consoles good for all ages? Interactive game consoles can work for children, adults, and older family members when the games offer simple controls and clear instructions. Check each title’s age rating, reading level, physical demands, and difficulty settings. Games with team modes and adjustable challenges make it easier for players with different skill levels to play together. Can an interactive game console replace a traditional board game night? An interactive game console can replace or complement a traditional board game night. Board combines face-to-face play, physical pieces, strategy, and friendly competition with the sound, animation, and responsive gameplay of a video game. Everyone gathers around one tabletop display while Board manages the rules and reacts to each move. What makes an interactive game console different from a regular video game? A regular video game usually centers on a handheld controller, headset, or individual screen. An interactive game console may use touch, movement, voice commands, mobile devices, or physical pieces. These controls give more people a direct role and keep conversation, teamwork, and group reactions part of the game.

Whether you're looking for a gift at the holidays or for a birthday or just looking for a way to surprise your family, the best family gifts are the ones that encourage laughter, conversation, play, and quality time. Focusing on memorable moments and traditions will last far longer than a single-use item. According to the American Psychological Association, spending quality time together through shared activities helps strengthen family relationships and improve overall well-being. That’s why many families are considering gifts that promote shared hobbies and invite participation across generations. More than just a simple gift, these kinds of items have the potential to support the health of the family and relationships over a lifetime. This guide highlights some of the best family gift ideas across games, experiences, cozy home essentials, and outdoor adventures. You'll find options for every budget and family size and practical tips for choosing gifts everyone will actually want to use.  Key Takeaways  Choose gifts that encourage everyone to participate rather than watch from the sidelines. The best family gift ideas can be enjoyed repeatedly, creating lasting traditions instead of one-time excitement. Experiences and collaborative activities often create stronger memories than material gifts alone. Consider age range, accessibility, and group size before choosing a family gift. Games, outdoor activities, and cozy home experiences offer options for nearly every budget. Best Family Gift Ideas: Quick Overview Family gifts are most memorable when they create opportunities to spend time together. Whether your goal is family game nights, outdoor adventures, creative hobbies, or cozy weekends at home, the ideas below offer options across a wide range of ages, interests, and budgets. Here’s a quick overview of our choices, explained in detail in the longer list below.   Gift Idea Best For Category Age Range Approx. Cost Why It's a Great Gift Board Family game nights Games and Play All ages System (incl. 7 games): $399; additional games from $34.95 Digital tabletop platform with cooperative, competitive, and arcade games that encourage conversation and shared play. Ticket to Ride Train lovers Games and Play 8+ $49.51 (base game) A classic strategy board game for 2–5 players. Nex Playground Active screen time Games and Play 5–95 $299.99 Motion-controlled console that gets kids moving without requiring controllers. Pandemic Cooperative board games Games and Play 8+ $49.99 Team-based strategy game where everyone works together toward a shared goal. NYC Skyline Chess Set Chess enthusiasts Games and Play 5+  $295 Premium designer chess set that doubles as functional décor and a family heirloom. Nintendo Switch Traditional console gaming Games and Play 6+ $229.99–$399.99 Handheld gaming system with family-friendly multiplayer titles and a large single- and multi-player game library. 1,000-Piece Family Puzzle Screen-free evenings Games and Play 6+ $25–$60 Encourages teamwork, conversation, and patience while creating a relaxing shared activity. At-Home Escape Room Kit Teamwork Games and Play 10+ $30–$50 A one-time team challenge that rewards creative thinking and collaboration. Clue Luxury Edition Classic strategy games Games and Play 6+ $399 A premium collector's version of the classic mystery game. Uno or Skip-Bo Teaching card games Games and Play 7+ $10–$20 Simple, affordable classics that help younger players learn turn-taking and game etiquette. Museum or Zoo Membership Educational family outings Experiences All ages $75–$300 Encourages year-round adventures with repeat visits and member perks. Family Cooking Class Food-loving families Experiences 5+ $50–$200+ Builds cooking skills while creating memories together. Portable Projector + Movie Night Kit Cozy family evenings Experiences All ages $895+ Turns any backyard or room into a theatrical experience. Family Scavenger Hunt Active families Experiences 4+ $20–$50 Combines exploration, teamwork, and problem-solving in an outdoor adventure. Family Recipe Book Budding chefs Experiences All ages $9–$60+ Preserves treasured family recipes while creating a meaningful keepsake. Backyard Stargazing Kit Young astronomers Experiences 6+ $50–$250+ Inspires curiosity through astronomy, observation, and outdoor learning. Family Photo Book Celebrating milestones Experiences All ages $196+ A personalized keepsake that sparks storytelling and preserves favorite memories. Family Game and Puzzle Table Dedicated game space Home and Cozy All ages $499–$4,000+ Creates a permanent gathering place for puzzles, board games, and family activities. Popcorn Station Kit Movie night extras Home and Cozy 1+ $30–$100 Makes movie nights feel like a special event with fresh popcorn and toppings. Family Karaoke Machine Musical families Home and Cozy 6+ $449.99 Encourages laughter, performances, and family sing-alongs. Weekend Waffle Maker Family brunch Home and Cozy All ages (with supervision) $349.99 Turns weekend breakfasts into a fun hands-on family tradition. Family Game Night Kit Beginner gamers Home and Cozy 5+ $40–$60 Includes games and themed extras for an easy, ready-to-go family night. Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket Winter movie nights Home and Cozy All ages $458 Luxurious weighted blanket perfect for relaxing together on chilly evenings. Backyard Trampoline High-energy kids Outdoor and Active 6+ $1,199 Encourages outdoor exercise and active play for the whole family. Badminton/Lawn Sports Set Big backyards Outdoor and Active 6+ $119.99 Multiple lawn games in one set for spontaneous outdoor fun. Starter Camping Kit Outdoor adventures Outdoor and Active All ages $299.99+ An easy introduction to camping with the family's essential gear. Nature Exploration Kit Preschoolers and up Outdoor and Active 4+ $155 Encourages curiosity through birdwatching, bug hunting, and nature walks. Family Kayak Set Water sports Outdoor and Active All ages (with adult supervision) $2,425 Tandem kayak designed for memorable family adventures on the water. Inflatable Backyard Movie Screen Outdoor entertaining Outdoor and Active All ages $199.99 Creates a backyard theater for movies, sports, and neighborhood gatherings. What Makes a Great Family Gift? The best family gift ideas provide chances to spend time together around a shared activity. With each family member engaged in something everyone can enjoy, you create memorable experiences and grow closer together. A few key qualities separate the best options from the rest: Accessibility: Multiple ages and skill levels should be able to participate easily, without anyone feeling overwhelmed or bored. Replay value: The best family gifts stay fun well past the first use. Games, memberships, outdoor equipment, and creative kits can become traditions the family returns to all year long. Ease of use: A gift you can pull off the shelf for a spontaneous game night or any weekend is one that delivers the most value over time. Ultimately, the best family gift ideas are about creating more opportunities to spend meaningful time together. Games and Play Games are an easy and effective way to bring families together because of the emphasis on interaction, communication, and collective problem-solving. When choosing a game for your family, look for options with simple rules, scalable difficulty, and enough variety to keep everyone engaged. Here are a few of our favorite options for this category of family gift ideas. Board: Best for family game night Board reimagines how we play games together, with its face-to-face game console where physical pieces make a shared screen come alive . The 24” touchscreen console lays flat on any table. Board's collection of games emphasizes collaboration, creativity, friendly competition, and conversation. Families can explore a variety of interactive experiences that work well for different ages, interests, and group sizes. Some games like Spycraft involve solving a mystery, while others like Omakase put players head-to-head in chess-like challenges. Arcade games enhance the nostalgia for parents who remember older games fondly, and coop games, like the forthcoming title The Magic Shop, put everyone on the same team to work together to defeat the game. Games are easy enough for young kids and grandparents to jump in and participate, but challenging enough to teens and adults engage. Whatever game you choose, Board focuses on creating moments that everyone shares together around a table. New games continue to expand the platform's library, so with a large catalog of highly replayable games and more coming, Board is a great choice for daily gameplay. It's an excellent option for households that enjoy modern gaming entertainment, but still want to engage in the kind of social connections that make family game night special. Discover your next favorite family game and start creating new traditions together with Board. Age range: All ages Cost: Console (with seven games included): $399 Additional games: $34.95 Ticket to Ride: Best for train lovers Ticket to Ride is a board game for 2–5 players in which each competes to build the biggest train system on the board. Gameplay typically runs 30–60 minutes. The base game features a map of North America, and expansions feature other areas of the world or points in time. Digital versions of the game are also available, including various expansions.  Age range: 8+ Cost:  Board base game: $49.51 Board expansions: varies by item Digital base game: $14.99 Digital expansions: varies by item Nex Playground: Best for active screentime The Nex Playground is a digital console designed for movement and indoor play with younger kids. Up to four players can play at once, and the game system doesn’t require controllers. Both fitness and adventure games are available on the platform, which comes with five base games. Other games are available for purchase. Age range: 5-95 Cost:  Console (with five games): $299.99 Playpass subscription for additional games: $49 for 3 months or $89 for 12 months Pandemic: Best for coop board games In the board game Pandemic, players work together to stop a global pandemic in its tracks. The game uses cooperative play with each player assigned different roles to give them some autonomy during gameplay, while the group collectively works against the board to cure the global outbreak.  Age range: 8+ Cost: Board base game: $49.99 Board expansions: varies by item Digital game: exists but with limited and varied availability NYC Skyline Chess Set: Best for chess lovers NYC Skyline Chess Set is a high-end option for chess-loving families, particularly those who live in a “New York state of mind.” The set features architectural pieces inspired by buildings in New York City. Each piece is made from double-weighted acrylic and has a felt bottom, and the set comes with a folding board. This game is sold by the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and can be found at the museum’s gift shop. Age range: 5+ Cost: $295 Nintendo Switch: Best for traditional console gaming The Nintendo Switch is a popular traditional console for families, the latest model in a line of game systems dating back to nearly the beginning of video games. Games for this system are typically the price of a standard video game, and the console comes with only one base game with some deals. Most games for Switch are meant for solo players, but there are a few that families can play together.  Age range: 6+ Cost:  Nintendo Switch Lite: $229.99 Nintendo Switch: $339.99 Nintendo Switch OLED: $399.99 Extra Joy-Con controllers: $89.00 A 1,000-Piece Family Puzzle: Best for screen-free activities Cobble Hill offers a wide variety of 1,000 piece puzzles that families can do together. Within the physical puzzle category, this brand stands out for having low dust (a sign of good materials and manufacturing) and a nice tactile sensation—the pieces feel nice when you click them in place. Puzzles can be great fun for some families, though others may find the activity boring depending on attention spans and age.   Age range: 6+ Cost: $25–$60 At-Home Escape Room Kit: Best for teamwork The Pirate Box is like many other escape room games in that it includes a mystery to solve within a set time, requires players to decipher clues, and encourages the group to think creatively. Success depends on collaboration rather than individual skill, so every family member must contribute to spot patterns and solve the game’s puzzles. This kit comes as a printable file that can be assembled and presented as a gift for a family. Though the game has no replay value once a group has played it, many people report escape rooms to be a fun and memorable way to spend an evening.  Age range: 10+ Cost: $30–$50 Clue Luxury Edition: Best for classic strategy games The Clue Luxury Edition is a high-end game designed for Clue lovers who want the most premium experience possible with the classic board game. This game is finished with mahogany and weighs 12 pounds due to its MDF construction. It comes with a storage drawer for the game pieces that’s made with a zinc die-cast door pull.  Age range: 6+ Cost: $399 Uno or Skip-Bo: Best for teaching card game etiquette Uno and Skip-Bo are both games featuring easy to read cards in primary colors designed to introduce younger players to card games. Uno is a fast-paced game that’s as much about the luck of the draw as how you play your wild cards, making it ideal for younger kids. Skip-bo is a slower-paced game that can require players to hold a large number of cards in their hand and sort things in order, making it more appealing to older kids. Age range: 7+ Cost: $10–$20 Experiences and Activities Some of the most meaningful family gift ideas aren't physical objects at all—they're opportunities to spend uninterrupted time together. Experience gifts encourage families to explore new interests, build confidence, and create stories they'll continue telling for years. Museum or Zoo Annual Membership: Best for education An annual membership to a local museum or zoo lets families visit whenever they have a free afternoon. Many memberships include perks like discounted guest tickets, special exhibits, early event access, and reciprocal admission to participating institutions in other cities. For families with young children, repeat visits let kids explore at their own pace and check in on their favorite exhibits. Age range: All ages Cost: $75–$300 depending on family size and location Cooking Class for Families: Best for food lovers Cozymeal.com offers online cooking classes as well as in-person cooking classes in various locations across the country. Topics include making homemade pasta, decorating cookies, baking bread, and international cuisine. Some classes are specifically designed for families to join as a group, though others could still be attended by families even if they are not the target audience. Families with specific dietary needs like vegetarian or gluten free may find some opportunities to learn more about cooking great food within restrictions.  Age range: 5+ (varies by class) Cost: $50–$200+ depending on class size, topic, and location Portable Projector + Movie Night Kit: Best for cozy family evenings The LG CineBeam Q Mini 4K UHD Portable Projector pairs well with a movie night kit, providing a cozy way to enjoy a movie in a new space. Portable projectors can be set up outside the living room, and even outside, to make a movie screening special.  Age range: All ages Cost:  Projector: $800+ Movie night kit: $95 Family Scavenger Hunt Kit: Best for active families ScavengerHunt.com offers ready-made scavenger hunts guided by their app. While not available in all cities, many areas have more than one option for different hunts. Families can play together and divide aspects of the challenge up between them, collaborating by age and skill level to search for the next clue.  Age range: 4+ Cost: $20–$50 Family Recipe Book: Best for families with budding chefs Heritagecookbook.com offers a way for families to collect favorite recipes into a printed recipe book. These books can be filled with photos and stories alongside the recipes, and multiple collaborators can work on it together. There are many customization options for the printed book, and families can also opt for digital copies that can be used on any screen.  Age range: All ages Cost: $9–$60+ Backyard Stargazing Kit: Best for young astronomers The Bespoke Post Stargazing Kit comes with an astronomy book and a special telescope to get families started on backyard stargazing. The “stellarscope” helps viewers identify what they see in the sky by working with your latitude and longitude to overlay a star map. The book details specific astronomical occurrences that might be visible in the night sky. Younger kids may enjoy simple viewing, while older kids might benefit from learning the specific details present in the book and star maps.  Age range: 6+ Cost: $50–$250+ Family Photo Book: Best for milestones A professionally printed photo book from Milk Books is one of the most personal gifts you can give. Instead of letting favorite pictures remain on phones or social media, gather highlights from vacations, birthdays, holidays, and everyday moments into a beautifully designed keepsake. Many online printing services offer customizable layouts, captions, and themes, making it easy to create a polished book without graphic design experience. Looking through the finished album becomes an activity in itself, sparking conversations and helping younger family members remember shared experiences.  Age range: All ages Cost: $196+ Home and Cozy With today's busy schedules, carving out intentional cozy time at home can be profoundly meaningful. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite gift ideas for this category. Family Game and Puzzle Table: Best for a dedicated game space A board game table from Allplay.com is a great place to gather around your Board for family game night, and it doubles as a convenient spot for puzzling. There are lots of choices available for the basic construction of this table and many options for customization. Some tables also come with storage for holding pieces of favorite games that make it to the table time after time.  Age range: All ages Cost: $499–$4000+ Popcorn Station Kit: Best for movie night extras There are many popcorn makers out there, but if you’re really looking to turn up the popcorn luxury, Paragon offers a great option. Their 1911 8 Ounce Red Popcorn Machine can turn an ordinary family movie night into a fun tradition everyone can look forward to. Pop up a big batch of popcorn and add flavors and toppings to create custom bowls each family member will enjoy.  Age range: 1+ Cost: $30–$100 Family Karaoke Machine: Best for musical families The Ikarao Shell S1 Karaoke Machine comes with a built-in screen and a pre-loaded app so karaoke night requires very little set up. It comes with two microphones with a Bluetooth setup and 280W 2.2-channel stereo speakers for quality sound. This karaoke machine can also serve as a PA system or Bluetooth speaker for events  Age range: 6+ Cost: $449.99 Weekend Waffle Maker: Best for brunch The All-Clad Gourmet Stainless Steel Digital Waffle Maker makes breakfast into a shared family activity. Even young kids can help mix batter, set out toppings, and customize their own waffles with fruit, whipped cream, chocolate chips, or syrup. This waffle maker comes with several settings and a smart timer, helping you cook each pre-set waffle style perfectly.  Age range: All ages with adult supervision Cost: $349.99 Family Game Night Kit: Best for beginner gamers Gamenightkit.com offers family game night kit bundles that include everything you need for the game of your choice on their website. The kit also comes with a recipe card for those who enjoy cooking as a supplement to game night. You can also opt to pair this kit with a bag of snacks to make an easy, low-tech family game night kit for those who enjoy basic card games.   Age range: 5+ Cost: $40–$60 Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket: Best for winter movie nights The Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket is a luxury weighted blanket designed to look great on either your couch or your bed. It comes in two sizes and two weights, and is shed-resistant—designed to keep its look and feel even after multiple washes. Weighted blankets may be particularly helpful for those who suffer from anxiety, as well as generally being a cozy way to enjoy an evening inside on a cold winter night.  Age range: All ages Cost: $458 Outdoor and Active Outdoor gifts encourage families to unplug and practice healthy movement habits together. The items we chose for this category all create opportunities for fresh air or exercise as a family. Backyard Trampoline with Safety Enclosure: Best for high-energy kids A Jumpflex HERO 14ft Trampoline is an option for families with high-energy kids who could benefit from a fun way to keep them outside and moving longer. A safety enclosure keeps kids bouncing on the correct part of the trampoline and, together with padding around the edges, supports a safer jumping experience. This 14 ft trampoline can support up to 550 lbs, making it a good choice for both adults and families with several kids.  Age range: 6+ Cost: $1199 Badminton/Lawn Sports Combo Set: Best for big backyards This Badminton combo set provides both badminton and volleyball equipment in one package. Families can switch back and forth between games depending on interest, skill level, and number of players. You can bring this set to parks, campsites, and beaches, making them useful well beyond the backyard. Because setup is relatively quick, they're ideal for spontaneous outdoor play during warm weather.  Age range: 6+ Cost: $119.99 Starter Camping Kit: Best for outdoor adventures This starter camping kit, the CORE Equipment 4 Piece Camp Combo, includes a tent, table, and places to sit. These are the basics families need to try camping that can be supplemented by items they likely already have in their house. This tent is easy to set up in as little as a minute.  Age range: All ages Cost: $299.99+ Nature Exploration Kit: Best for preschoolers and up A nature exploration kit, like this Nature Explorer Pack, encourages children to become active observers of the world around them. This kit includes binoculars, a magnifying glass, several guides to bugs and animals, a journal, and even a pond dipping net. Families can take nature walks to identify birds, plants, insects, and animal tracks together.  Age range: 4+ Cost: $155 Family Kayak Set: Best for water sports The Hurricane Santee 140 Tandem is a high-quality option for a tandem kayak. With two seats per kayak, parents can bring along a young child to get them started on water sports early. This kayak is 57 lbs and includes an adjustable front seat. It also includes a closed hatch for storage as well as a front bungee for a dry bag and gear.  Age range: 6+ Cost: $2425 Inflatable Backyard Movie Screen: Best for entertaining outdoors The Gemmy 39127-32 Deluxe Outdoor Inflatable Movie Screen turns a backyard into an outdoor cinema for family movie nights, sporting events, or neighborhood gatherings. This model self inflates in a few seconds and has a 144” movie screen measured diagonally. It also includes tethers and stakes to hold it in place. Pair this gift with a portable projector, chairs, blankets, popcorn, and string lights to complete the set up.  Age range: All ages Cost: $199.99 The Best Family Gifts Are the Ones You Open Together The best family gift ideas are the ones that continue creating memories for your loved ones long after the celebration ends. Whether you choose games, experiences, cozy traditions, or outdoor adventures, the goal is the same: bringing everyone together in meaningful ways. When you choose gifts with strong replay value rather than one-time novelty, you get an experience families can enjoy week after week. Board offers just such a gift idea and lets families focus on creating shared, face-to-face moments around a game together rather than just passing a controller. It also features games that connect families across generations, offering both competitive and coop games designed to engage the whole group.  If you're looking for a gift that combines modern gameplay with meaningful family interaction, Board offers an engaging collection of multiplayer experiences that can turn ordinary evenings into memorable family traditions. Explore the full collection and discover your next family game night with Boar  

Some nights, finding a game the whole family will enjoy can feel like a real chore. One person wants strategy. Another wants fast-paced action. Younger kids may need simple rules, while older players want complexity and depth. The best family games combine these things to create shared experiences that keep everyone engaged from start to finish. That's one reason family game nights remain so popular. Shared family activities can help strengthen relationships, improve communication, and foster a greater sense of connection, and they can even improve sibling relationships. Whether you're looking for a good collective belly laugh, friendly competition, or great memories, family games can give you these opportunities. Key takeaways The best family games balance simplicity with the right engagement level for players of all ages engaged. Family games work best when they encourage conversation, collaboration, and shared experiences. Great family games should be accessible to younger players without feeling boring to older ones. Building a regular game-night tradition can help strengthen family relationships over time. Board brings families face-to-face around a 24-inch tabletop console where physical pieces and digital gameplay happen on the same screen. Best family games: Quick overview This chart provides a quick comparison of popular games, outlining each title’s style, platform, cost, and recommended age range. It’s designed to help you quickly find the right fit for your next game night. Game Style/type of game Format (platform) Cost Age Spycraft Cooperative mystery/puzzle adventure Board platform $34.95 10+ Omakase Competitive strategy/tile-and-movement duel Board platform $34.95 8+ Save the Bloogs Puzzle adventure/problem-solving Board platform $34.95 8+ Strata & Daily Build Strategy + spatial puzzle bundle Board platform $44.95 8+ Civilization Empire-building strategy/exploration/turn-based strategy Digital game + physical board (multi-platform) $69.99 (base game) + $3.99–$29.99 expansions 12+ Chop Chop Dexterity/fast-paced cooking challenge Board platform Included with Board purchase 6+ Mushka Virtual pet/interactive care simulation Board game (Board platform) $34.95 6+ Space Rocks Arcade survival/reflex-based shooter Board platform Included with Board purchase 6+ Board Arcade Arcade mini-game collection/retro-style party game Board platform Included with Board purchase 6+ Mario Kart Arcade racing/competitive action Nintendo Switch 2 $79.99 7+ Splatoon 2 Action shooter/team-based ink combat Nintendo Switch $59.99 10+ Bluey: The Videogame Family adventure/exploration/character-driven quests Multiple consoles (Switch, PS4/5, Xbox, PC) $39.99 3+ Minecraft Sandbox survival/crafting/exploration Multi-platform (console, PC, mobile) $29.99 7+ Animal Crossing Life simulation/social sandbox Nintendo Switch / Switch 2 $64.99 7+ What makes a family game actually work Not every game labeled "family-friendly" succeeds at bringing families together. The best family games create an experience everyone genuinely enjoys. A game that appeals just to adults or children may not make it back to the table after one play session. Great family games strike a balance between accessibility, engagement, and replayability. While every family is different, the most successful family games tend to share several characteristics. Easy to learn but hard to put down The strongest family games only take a couple of minutes to pick up, allowing everyone to feel confident fast. Simple rules don't mean simple gameplay, however. The best games create interesting decisions and memorable moments without overwhelming players with complexity. Your family should feel confident enough to pick up and play after a brief explanation or in-game tutorial but still discover new game elements over multiple sessions. This balance is particularly important when multiple generations are playing together. Parents, teens, and younger children should all feel comfortable playing together without too much upfront time investment. Immersive, not just interactive Interaction alone doesn't guarantee engagement. Immersive games give players a reason to care about what happens next through a great game environment, fun characters, or an interesting objective. Whether players compete with each other, engage in a co-op puzzle together, or build a new world all by themselves, immersion helps transform gameplay into a memorable family experience. Game designer and author Jane McGonigal has argued that meaningful game play creates emotional investment by giving participants clear goals and a sense of progress, generating positive feelings and unlocking a sense of fun. Family games that tell stories, spark imagination, or encourage creative thinking become favorites—players remember the time they spent together long after game night is over. The right play length Even the best game can lose its appeal if it takes too long. A game that fits comfortably into an evening is more likely to become part of a regular routine. Many successful family games fall into the 20-60 minute range, which provides enough time for a solid gaming session while avoiding boredom or fatigue, particularly for younger children. Shorter games keep things flexible. Keep playing if you’re having a great time, but when that 20 minute game ends, having the option to switch gears can be freeing. That way, families with busy schedules can feel like they accomplished a bit of fun and still make it to baseball practice on time. The ideal length ultimately depends on your family, but games that respect players' time tend to be the ones families come back to over and over. Accessible for all ages—boring for none One of the biggest challenges in family game design is creating something that appeals across age groups. Young children need rules they can understand and mechanics they can handle with little fingers and hands. Older players want more depth and complexity. Great family games accomplish both at once, letting younger players enjoy the basic mechanics while older players work on deeper strategy or make higher-level decisions. When everyone at the table feels included, game night becomes something the whole family looks forward to. Present, face-to-face time Modern families have more entertainment options than ever before. Streaming services, social media, mobile apps, and video games compete constantly for attention. Finding the right game to bring the whole family together provides a moment of present-tense connection, even in digital play. Shared experiences support stronger communication and emotional connection, both critically important for families. Games encourage conversation, collaboration, laughter, and friendly competition, all while creating stories you’ll tell each other years down the road. Best strategy games Strategy games work well for families with kids who enjoy planning, making decisions, and outsmarting opponents. This class of games encourages problem-solving, creative thinking, and flexibility, while keeping things approachable. Here’s a roundup of a few at the top of our list: 1. Spycraft Spycraft is a cooperative mystery adventure where players take on the role of secret agents. Armed with a Spy Kit, players decode ciphers, crack safes, piece together audio recordings, and solve increasingly complex puzzles as they track clues from New York to Tokyo and beyond. With options for solo and group play, Spycraft blends the suspense of a detective game with hands-on interactive tools. If you love Clue and Carmen Sandiego, you’ll love Spycraft. Platform: Board Cost: $34.95 Solve your next mystery together with Spycraft. 2. Omakase Omakase is a fast-paced strategy game where every move counts. Chess lovers will find the game play familiar - players face off in a head-to-head duel, except sushi-style! Rotate your chopsticks across the board to collect the perfect sushi sets before your opponent does and use bento box power-ups and tactical decision-making to win. This game is simple to learn, but most rewarding when players strategize several moves ahead. Omakase serves up the perfect balance of accessibility, replayability, and competitive fun. Platform: Board Cost: $34.95 Test your strategy skills with Omakase. 3. Save the Bloogs Save the Bloogs is an action and adventure game that challenges players to rescue adorable creatures by solving environmental puzzles. Each game comes with physical pieces like cannons, stairs, blocks, and a shapeshifter ring. Players build pathways, overcome traps, and guide the Bloogs through forests, frozen landscapes, lava fields, and more. Choose from 100 levels across five worlds and opt for solo, cooperative, or competitive play. Platform: Board Cost: $34.95 Put your puzzle-solving skills to the test with Save the Bloogs. 4. Strata & Daily Build Strata & Daily Build is a two-game bundle for players who love strategy, puzzles, and spatial thinking. In Strata, players compete for territory by carefully placing 3D blocks in a tactical battle where every move shapes the board and influences the next play. Daily Build offers a fresh 3D building challenge every day, helping players learn creative problem-solving and work on spatial thinking. This collection provides endless replayability and rewarding challenges for players of all skill levels. Platform: Board Cost: $44.95 Challenge your mind every day with Strata & Daily Build. 5. Civilization In Civilization, players build their own empire from ancient times to modern times. Each empire must choose which technologies to improve, what kind of ruling system to use, and which resources to gather. Players balance the needs of their population with requests and interactions from other empires. Scouts explore the board and discover new play areas that contain valuable resources or sometimes marauders that must be defeated. As play continues, players form alliances, gain influence, strike deals, and even go to war with one another. Platform: Physical board game PC Playstation XBox Nintendo Switch Cost: $69.99 for the base digital game, with expansion packs ranging from $3.99 to $29.99 Best action and adventure games Action and adventure games emphasize exploration, movement, challenges, and combat-style interactions between players or against in-game characters. Fast-paced gameplay helps maintain engagement, particularly for younger participants who may struggle with high complexity or slower games. We’ve gathered a few of the best out there for your next gaming session: 1. Chop Chop Chop Chop is a fast-paced culinary strategy game that puts your coordination and team communication to the test. In this co-op action game, players use kitchen tools to interact with the Board and race the clock to complete recipes, serve meals, and earn dollars. Easy to learn but difficult to master, Chop Chop keeps every round exciting and sends players to restaurants from a wide variety of traditions from Italian to BBQ. It's an ideal choice for family game nights, parties, or anyone looking for a hands-on game that sparks laughter and encourages teamwork. Platform: Board Cost: Included with Board purchase Put your cooking skills to the test with Chop Chop. 2. Mushka Mushka is a delightful virtual pet experience that brings a lovable digital pet named Mushka to life. Using a toy bag, brush, watering can, wand, dryer, and other accessories, players feed, clean, play with, and care for Mushka as it reacts with animations, dances, bubble tricks, and other charming surprises. As Mushka moves through its own daily routine, players continue to unlock new interactions and discoveries. Platform: Board Cost: $34.95 Bring home Mushka, a digital companion you'll love to care for. 3. Mario Kart Mario Kart is a series of games from Nintendo that features go-kart-style racing with popular Nintendo characters. Players choose their character and build their kart, making choices about color and style alongside elements like speed and traction. These choices can help them gain a competitive advantage as they race against computer players and other human players, battling each other with surprise items and handling each new track element as it comes. Online play options are available in some of the newer versions of this game. Platform: Nintendo Switch 2 Cost: $79.99 4. Splatoon 2 In Splatoon 2, players use paint guns to cover the world in their chosen color, battling each other and/or in-game enemies. Characters are humanoid cephalopods that can switch between human and Inkling/Octoling form, allowing players to either shoot colored ink or swim through ink of their own color to top up their ink supply. Online play options are available (player versus player or player versus the world), but players can also opt for a solo campaign. Platform: Nintendo Switch Cost: $59.99 Kid favorites The best games for younger players balance accessibility and engagement. Successful kid-friendly family games often incorporate elements of creativity, teamwork, movement, or storytelling. They allow children to contribute meaningfully while giving older family members enough depth to remain interested. Here’s a short list of top games in the category: 1. Space Rocks Space Rocks is a fast-paced arcade-style game where players pilot a ship through a hazardous asteroid field, collect minerals, and blast space rocks, collect minerals, and survive as long as possible. Every run tests players’ reflexes, timing, and ability to stay calm under pressure as the space rocks keep coming. Like with old arcade games, this game is quick to learn but tough to master, leaving players begging for “just one more round!” Platform: Board Cost: Included with Board purchase Blast off and survive the chaos in Space Rocks. 2. Board Arcade Board Arcade is a part of the Retro Arcade Collection that brings the excitement of classic arcade gaming to Board with a curated lineup of games inspired by the golden age of arcades. In Board Arcade, players jump between the five games in the collection, making it perfect for those nights when no one can decide what to play. With a heavy dose of nostalgia, this game is perfect for players of all ages, offering interactive fun that fits right into any game night. Platform: Board Cost: Included in Board purchase Try Board Arcade to relive classic arcade fun. 3. Bluey: The Videogame Bluey: The Videogame lets players interact with characters from the show, including Grandad, Aunt Trixie, and Nana. Quests help players explore various areas and collect costumes, toys, and other items. Building and crafting elements enhance gameplay, and players can keep track of special in-game moments with trophies and stickers. This game is designed for little hands, the target audience for the show. Platform: Nintendo Switch PlayStation 4 & 5 Windows Xbox One and Series X/S Cost: $39.99 4. Minecraft InMinecraft, players engage in breaking, crafting, and rebuilding the world, which is made up of blocks with various characteristics. The game is set on a timer, so players face different elements of the world depending on whether it’s day or night, with many enemies coming out in the dark. There’s a solo campaign in this game, but there are also many online servers with multiplayer elements and themes. Platform: Windows Mac Linux Xbox One and Series X/S PlayStation 4 & 5 Nintendo Switch Mobile Cost: $29.99 5. Animal Crossing Animal Crossing brings players to an island with nothing but trees and a few in-game characters on it. Over the course of the game, players work the land, interact with characters, and pay off their debt to Tom Nook as they build their dream getaway island. Online multiplayer elements are available with several safeguards in place to prevent unwanted interactions. All players on one Switch share a single island, so families who share one console must collaborate on their island design and quest completion over the course of the game. Platform: Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 Cost: $64.99 Play the family games that bring everyone to the table The best family games are the ones you go back to again and again. When choosing a family game, focus on the elements that matter most: immersive experiences, the right length, accessibility across age groups, and opportunities for meaningful family interaction. A great game night is about creating moments of connection, laughter, and shared experiences that bring everyone together, and the right game will give life to the shared experience. Choosing a game with Board lets families enjoy all the excitement of playing digital family games together and all the benefits of sharing a game night table. Players can pull up a chair and strategize together, maximizing both interaction and fun. With a wide variety of games to choose from and more coming soon, there’s something for every player to enjoy. When you’re choosing the best family game for your next game night, consider all the factors that make for a great collective experience. Look for a game that will be accessible for all ages, for something that will be quick to learn, and for an engaging game that will make the best memories. Opt for a shared experience with one of the many games available on Board, and enjoy spending time around the gaming table with the whole family. Check out Board’s game library and plan your next game night.

A good family game night gets the whole family off their phones and spending quality time together. Most families want more nights like that, but it gets harder every year. Children ages 8 to 18 now spend an average of 7.5 hours a day looking at screens alone, which leaves less time for the family to connect. That's why families keep putting more effort into a proper game night. It gives the kids and the grown-ups something to do together instead of mindlessly scrolling on social media. But with so many games to choose from, where do you start? We've rounded up the best games for weekend fun across different ages, group sizes, and moods. You’ll also find included instructions on how to host the night itself, so the whole thing runs smoothly from setup to the last round. A few of the games we’ll cover run on Board, a new kind of game console that combines the best of video and board games. It’s an interactive, tabletop console where physical pieces control gameplay, designed for the whole family to gather around and play together. Explore the Board here. Key takeaways: The best family game night comes down to matching the game to your group: their ages, their energy, and how much time you actually have. Short, easy games work best on busy weeknights and as warm-ups. Save the longer, strategy-heavy games for when nobody's watching the clock. Beyond the fun, games quietly build planning, patience, and teamwork, and give kids a low-stakes place to practice handling a win or a loss. Board is a new kind of game console that makes family game night easy with tabletop devices that handle quick arcade rounds, deep strategy, and everything in between. Quick game finder: Best games by family style To build this list, we looked for a few factors in every game on top of positive reviews. It had to be easy to learn, so nobody spends twenty minutes reading rules while the kids lose interest. It had to capture the interest of the whale family, from the youngest player to the grandparents, instead of leaving someone watching. And it had to bring a fresh twist or format so it doesn’t feel like the same old games you’ve been playing. Find the style of game that matches your family’s interests the best. If your family wants… Recommended game Best for Strategy and mystery Spycraft Puzzle solvers Fast-paced action Save the Bloogs [Client to complete] Nostalgic fun Retro Arcade Collection Quick rounds Turn-based strategy Strata Spatial thinkers Adults-only game night Chop Chop Co-op chaos Quick games Uno Busy weeknights Cooperative gameplay Pandemic Team-building Big laughs Telestrations Large groups Accessible strategy Ticket to Ride Ages 8 and up Communication and teamwork Codenames Mixed ages Fast reactions Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Energetic players Creativity and storytelling Dixit Imaginative players Friendly competition Azul Competitive families A fast round Sushi Go! Busy weeknights Chaotic, active fun Throw Throw Burrito Active groups Best games for family game night This list mixes two kinds of games: classics you can grab off a shelf, and games built for Board. Board is a new kind of game console that combines the best of video and board games. Custom pieces control moves on the tabletop touchscreen, so games feel as tactile as a board game but handle setup, scoring, and rules for you. Best strategy game for family game night: Spycraft From New York to Tokyo to London, use your Spy Kit and your wits to crack puzzles and unravel an international mystery. Each case layers clues that reward careful deduction and teamwork, so players compare notes, test theories, and think a few steps ahead. With new puzzles and routes to work through, it has the replayability of a great escape room, and it lands especially well with teens and adults who want a real challenge. Ages 8+. Platform: The Board Play Spycraft on Board Best retro-inspired game: Retro Arcade Collection The Retro Arcade Collection bundles reimagined arcade classics into one fast, pick-up-and-play set. Grab the space ships and robots, pick teams, and jump between games in rounds short enough to fit between dinner and bedtime. The throwback style clicks with grandparents who grew up on the originals and kids meeting them for the first time, which makes it a reliable common ground for multi-generational game nights. Ages 6+. Platform: The Board Shop the Retro Arcade Collection Best action and adventure game: Save the Bloogs The Bloogs need a hero. Use cannons, stairs, a shapeshifter ring, and blocks to guide adorable Bloogs across tricky terrain, collecting crystals and exploring new worlds. Levels move quickly and ramp up the challenge, so the energy stays high whether one player is steering or the whole family is shouting out the next move. It’s easy to pick up but keeps everyone leaning in, which makes it a strong choice when the room wants action. Ages 6+. Platform: The Board Guide the Bloogs across tricky terrain on Board Best spatial thinking game: Strata Strata is a multi-layered strategy game where Tetris meets Chess. Place polyomino blocks to claim territory and outmaneuver opponents in a beautiful contest of spatial skill. Every turn is a quiet puzzle: Read the board, picture how each shape will fit, and think a few moves ahead to box out your rivals. Simple grids ease beginners in, while expert grids and height tiles give seasoned players room to go deep, so it grows with whoever's at the table. It rewards the planners and spatial thinkers in the family, and a match holds its tension right to the last block. Ages 8+. Platform: The Board Claim your territory block by block in Strata Best co-op chaos game: Chop Chop Tie on your apron, grab your knives, spoons, spice grinder, and sponge, and hit the line. It’s co-op chaos, culinary strategy, and party-night energy, without the messy clean-up. Orders pile up fast, so a calm kitchen turns into happy bedlam as everyone shouts instructions and scrambles to plate in time. The teamwork and the comedy of near-misses make it a favorite for game nights. Ages 6+. Platform: The Board Ready, Set, Chop Chop! Best classic card game: Uno Uno is a card game where players take turns matching cards by color or number, then shout "Uno" when they reach their last card. The last player(s) holding cards loses, so everyone races to empty their hand first. Anyone who can recognize colors can play, which makes it a good fit for younger kids as well as adults. You deal a hand in seconds and can wrap up a round in ten minutes. Platform: Physical card game Best cooperative game: Pandemic Pandemic is a board game where the whole family plays on the same side against the board. You work together to stop four diseases from spreading across the map, trading cards and planning each move as a team. Everyone wins or loses together, which encourages families to work together. A round runs about 45 minutes and suits ages 8 and up. Platform: Traditional board game Best drawing and guessing game: Telestrations Telestrations is a party game where you draw a word, pass your sketchpad to the next player to guess it, then they draw their guess for the person after them. The picture changes with every pass, and the reveal at the end shows the gap between the first word and the final drawing. Nobody needs to draw well to play. It allows for up to twelve players, which fits larger family gatherings where everyone wants a turn. Platform: Notepad and marker Best strategy board game for beginners: Ticket to Ride Ticket to Ride is a board game where players collect train cards and claim railway routes across a map to connect far-apart cities. The rules take about five minutes to learn, but choosing which routes to chase gives grown-ups plenty to think about. The map changes with every game and a round runs 30 to 60 minutes for ages 8 and up. Platform: Traditional board game Best word game for mixed ages: Codenames Codenames is a card game where two teams compete to identify their own agents, hidden in a grid of word cards, using one-word clues. One player on each team gives the clues while teammates discuss which cards the clue points to before guessing. The discussion between teammates carries the game, so players communicate constantly across the table. It works best with four or more players and runs about 15 minutes a round. Platform: Word game with cards Best fast-paced party game: Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a card game where players flip cards while chanting those five words in order, and slap the pile when the card matches the word spoken. The slowest player to react collects the pile, and the first player to empty their hand of cards wins. The game relies on speed and reaction rather than reading or strategy, so players of most ages can join. You can learn it in under a minute, and a round rarely takes more than 10 minutes. Platform: Card game Best storytelling game: Dixit Dixit is a card game where one player invents a clue for an illustrated card, and the others each submit a card from their hand that could match that clue. Then, everyone votes on which card they think belongs to the clue-giver. Players make up their own clues each turn, using a single word, a phrase, or even a sound. The cards use pictures instead of words, so younger players can take part alongside adults. A round runs about 30 minutes and suits ages 8 and up. Platform: Card game Best game for competitive families: Azul Azul is a board game where players draft colored tiles and arrange them on their board to score points for completing patterns and rows. The rules are fairly simple, but the game rewards strategy, since players plan which tiles to grab and often take the ones an opponent needs before they can. The tiles are physical pieces and the finished boards form mosaic patterns. A round runs 30 to 45 minutes and suits ages 8 and up. Platform: Board game Best quick-play family game: Sushi Go! Sushi Go! is a card game where players pick one card from a hand, pass the rest to the next player, and keep passing until the cards run out. The pick-and-pass action is simple enough for new players to follow from the first round, while the scoring, where different sushi cards earn points in different ways, gives the game its depth. Most games finish in about 15 minutes. It suits ages 8 and up. Platform: Card game Best chaotic family party game: Throw Throw Burrito Throw Throw Burrito is a card game where players race to collect three matching cards from a deck of silly cartoon pictures, like a burrito-riding dinosaur or a brain. Completing a set triggers a duel where the two players throw soft foam burritos at each other. The mix of quiet card collecting and sudden burrito throwing drives the game's humor, since a calm turn can break into a foam fight at any moment. It needs open space to play and works for groups of two to six. A round runs about 15 minutes and suits ages 7 and up. Platform: Card game and foam burritos The importance of family game nights Game night gives your kids more than just something to do. Most games make players think a few turns ahead and weigh their options before acting, which builds planning skills that carry over outside the game. Turn-based play also forces patience, since everyone has to wait their turn and sit with the outcome they get. Researchers who study family play connect board games with skills like planning ahead and staying flexible when a turn goes badly. Games work for building social skills too. Cooperative games put the whole family on one team, so kids practice working toward a shared goal instead of only competing. Every game also teaches them to handle winning and losing, and one study found that games give children a safe setting to feel strong emotions and practice controlling them—the same self-regulation they use elsewhere in life. The reason this works is that none of it feels like a lesson. Kids learn these skills while they play, not while they study, so they pick them up without resistance. You get a closer family and a habit worth keeping. How to host a game night A good game night comes down to a few simple choices you make before anyone sits down. Get these right the first time and the night runs smoothly, everyone stays involved, and you spend the evening playing instead of refereeing. Choose games based on age and attention span: Match the game to your youngest or least patient player. Anything that runs two hours or buries players in rules will lose the little kids fast. Mix competitive and cooperative games: Plan at least one of each. Competitive games bring the energy, cooperative games pull in anyone who prefers friendlier play, and alternating them keeps any single mood from taking over. Keep snacks and setup simple: Pick snacks people can grab with one hand and that won't smear on the cards, like popcorn or pretzels. Set out everything before you start and put phones in another room. Rotate who chooses the game: Let a different person pick each round, and say so out loud at the start. It gives all kids a turn and prevents disagreements around game selection. Start with a quick warm-up game:Open with something short before you bring out anything more time-intensive. A ten-minute round of Uno or Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza can kick off the energy before focusing attention before a longer game. Make family game night a tradition worth repeating Hosting a single game night is easy. Keeping it going week after week for regular family connection is the real goal, and that takes intention. Pick games that fit the people at your table, keep the setup easy, and let everyone have a hand in choosing an option for each session. Start with one or two games from this list and see what lands. Some will become instant favorites, while others won't make the second round, and that's how you learn what your family actually likes. A few weeks in, you'll have your own rhythm and a night everyone looks forward to. If you want one thing that covers most of this list, it’s Board. A new kind of game console that combines the best of video and board games, it comes with seven games ready to play out of the box and a growing library you can add to your system à la carte, with no subscription. From quick arcade rounds to deep strategy challenges, there’s a game for every age, every skill, and every group around your table. Gather round and see how it feels: Board ships with free returns and a 30-day risk-free trial, so your family can put it through a few game nights before deciding. Explore the Board

Family game nights don't have to stop at board games and card games. Many of today's video games give families a reason to gather in the same room, whether that's working through a challenge together, competing in a race, or laughing through a party game. Kids want more of that shared time, too. About 58% of children said they want to play more video games with their parents to feel more connected. The best family game console games turn gaming into something everyone can take part in. Some focus on teamwork, while others create friendly competition, creative play, or active movement around the room. This guide covers the best family game console games for different ages, play styles, and group sizes. You'll find co-op adventures, party games, creative building games, and more for your next family game night. Key takeaways: Family game console games include everything from co-op adventures and sports titles to creative building games.  Face-to-face games encourage more interaction than gaming on separate screens. The best family game depends on your group's age range, preferred play style, and whether you enjoy competition, teamwork, or creative play. Some platforms are built around shared, in-room play. Board, for example, pairs a touchscreen with physical pieces so everyone games face-to-face at the same table, not looking up at a screen. Best family game console games: Quick review We evaluated each game based on the factors families often consider when choosing a game for family game night, including: Age range Local multiplayer options Learning curve Typical session length Competitive, cooperative, creative, or active gameplay The list includes party games, co-op adventures, sports games, building games, and multiplayer experiences across Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Board. Game Platform Best ages Play style Avg. session Space Rocks Board 6+ Competitive 1-10 min/game level Chop Chop Board 6+ Co-op 5-10 min/game level The Heist Board 3+ Co-op 10-20 min/game level Save the Bloogs Board 6+ Co-op / Competitive 20-40 min/game level Board Arcade Board 6+ Co-op / Competitive 10-20 min/game level Omakase Board 6+ Competitive 15-25 min/game level Jackbox Party Pack Multi-platform 10+ Competitive 15-30 min Super Mario Odyssey Nintendo Switch 8+ Co-op 30-60 min Overcooked! All You Can Eat Multi-platform 8+ Co-op 20-45 min Super Mario Party Nintendo Switch 6+ Competitive 30-90 min Just Dance Switch, PS5, Xbox 6+ Competitive 15-30 min It Takes Two Multi-platform 10+ Co-op 45-90 min Unravel Two Multi-platform 8+ Co-op 30-60 min Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Nintendo Switch 6+ Competitive 15-30 min Minecraft Multi-platform 8+ Co-op 30-90 min LEGO Fortnite Multi-platform 8+ Co-op 30-90 min Nintendo Switch Sports Nintendo Switch 6+ Competitive 15-30 min Best family game console games Family game console games come in many forms, from racing and sports titles to cooperative adventures, creative building games, and digital board games. The games below support different play styles, age groups, and group sizes, making it easier to find an option that fits your next family game night. 1. Space Rocks: Best for fast-paced arcade competition Pilot your spaceship, blast asteroids, and scoop up minerals in this fast-paced arcade showdown. Rounds are short and easy to learn, so players of different ages can jump straight in and compete head-to-head. It’s a quick, high-energy pick for warming up game night or settling a friendly rivalry.  Platform: Board Price: Included with the Board Blast asteroids with Space Rocks 2. Chop Chop: Best for cooperative cooking chaos Tie on your apron, grab your knives, spoons, spice grinder, and sponge, and hit the line. It’s co-op chaos, culinary strategy, and party-night energy without the messy clean-up. The whole family cooks on one team against the clock, so it rewards communication and quick thinking over who’s the strongest player. Orders speed up as you go, keeping everyone locked in.  Platform: Board Price: Included with the Board  Tie on your apron and hit the line with Chop Chop 3. The Heist: Best for strategic puzzle-solving Guide your burglars past the lasers to grab priceless treasures, then slip back out before security catches on. Place mirrors to bend the beams, use splitters to send one laser in several directions, and chain them into intricate paths that spoof the system and disarm the traps between you and the prize.  Grabbing the treasure is only half the job: The moment it’s in hand, red lasers snap on and you have to rework your network to find a safe route out. Each level adds new layouts and obstacles that reward creative thinking and careful planning. Play solo or team up to pull off each heist together. Platform: Board Price: $34.95 Plan the perfect heist 4. Save the Bloogs: Best for quick thinking The Bloogs need a hero. Use cannons, stairs, a shapeshifter ring, and blocks to guide adorable Bloogs across tricky terrain, collecting crystals and exploring new worlds. It scales from a relaxed solo puzzle to a high-energy group effort, with levels that ramp up to keep older kids and adults challenged. Easy to learn, hard to put down.  Platform: Board Price: $34.95 Be the hero the Bloogs need 5. Board Arcade: Best for party game nights Open Board Arcade when the room shouts game night. Grab the space ships and robots, pick teams, and jump between four reimagined arcade classics. It’s built for a crowd, with an unlimited number of players competing across rounds, so no one sits out and the energy stays up even with a big group. It’s a go-to for when the whole family—and a few guests—want in. Platform: Board Price: $34.95 Pick your team and jump into Board Arcade 6. Omakase: Best for head-to-head strategy  Omakase turns dinner into a duel. Rotate the chopsticks, select the sushi you want, and collect sets for maximum points. It’s clean, fast, and deliciously competitive—a two-player contest of reading your opponent and timing your picks. It’s quick to learn, with enough depth to keep a rivalry going across rematches.  Platform: Board Price: $34.95 Turn dinner into a duel with Omakase 7. Jackbox Party Pack: Best for trivia and party games Jackbox Party Pack is a collection of party games developed by Jackbox Games. Each pack includes multiple games built around trivia, drawing, wordplay, surveys, debates, and other social challenges that encourage players to interact with each other. The games use smartphones, tablets, or web browsers as controllers so players can join without traditional gaming equipment. Complexity: Low to medium Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Apple TV, and iPad 8. Super Mario Odyssey: Best for globe-trotting adventures Super Mario Odyssey is an action-adventure platforming game developed by Nintendo. Players follow Mario and his companion Cappy as they travel across different kingdoms to stop Bowser's wedding plans and collect Power Moons to power the Odyssey airship. Complexity: Medium Platform: Nintendo Switch 9. Overcooked: Best for cooperative cooking challenges Overcooked! is a cooking game collection developed by Ghost Town Games and Team17. The game combines Overcooked! and Overcooked! 2, along with additional content, into a single package where players work together to prepare, cook, and serve meals across a variety of kitchen environments. Complexity: Medium Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC 10. Mario Party: Best for digital board game nights Mario Party is a party game developed by Nintendo that brings traditional board game mechanics into a digital format. Players roll dice, move across themed boards, collect coins and stars, use special items, and compete in a variety of minigames throughout the match. Complexity: Low Platform: Nintendo Switch 11. Just Dance: Best for music and movement Just Dance is a rhythm game series developed by Ubisoft where players follow on-screen dance routines set to popular songs. Players dance along to the choreography while a smartphone tracks their movements and scores their performance. The game supports up to six local players and includes a mix of music genres, dance styles, and difficulty levels. Complexity: Low to medium (varies by song and difficulty level) Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series 12. It Takes Two: Best for two-player co-op adventures It Takes Two is a co-op action-adventure game developed by Hazelight Studios. The story follows Cody and May, a married couple who are transformed into dolls and drawn into a series of fantasy worlds as they try to find a way back home. Complexity: Medium Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC 13. Unravel 2: Best for puzzle-solving Unravel Two is a puzzle-platforming game developed by Coldwood Interactive. Players control two characters made of yarn who travel through forests, industrial areas, and other environments while connected by a shared thread. The thread plays a central role throughout the game. Players swing across gaps, climb obstacles, and solve environmental puzzles by working together and using the connection between the two characters.  Complexity: Medium Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC 14. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: Best for kart-racing competition Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a kart racing game developed by Nintendo. Players choose from a large roster of Mario characters and race across dozens of tracks while using items such as shells, bananas, and mushrooms to gain an advantage or disrupt opponents. Complexity: Low Platform: Nintendo Switch 15. Minecraft: Best for world-building Minecraft is a sandbox game developed by Mojang Studios where players explore block-based worlds, gather resources, build structures, and interact with the environment. Each world generates its own landscapes, caves, forests, villages, and biomes, giving players different places to explore and build. Players can construct anything from small houses and farms to large cities and complex machines.  Complexity: Medium Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and mobile devices 16. LEGO Fortnite: Best for LEGO world buildin LEGO Fortnite is an open-world adventure game developed by Epic Games that combines LEGO building with exploration, crafting, and survival mechanics. Players gather resources, construct buildings, create tools, and explore large environments filled with different landscapes, creatures, and challenges. Players can build homesteads, recruit villagers, tame animals, and create their own structures using LEGO-inspired building systems. Complexity: Medium Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and mobile devices 17. Nintendo Switch Sports: Best for virtual sports competitions Nintendo Switch Sports is a sports game collection developed by Nintendo. Players use Joy-Con motion controls to compete in activities such as bowling, tennis, golf, soccer, volleyball, badminton, basketball, and chambara. Complexity: Low Platform: Nintendo Switch Coming soon: More fun for family game night Board adds new games and free expansions every month, so the library keeps growing after you bring it home. Here are a few titles coming to Board in 2026, each with its own custom piece set. Preview the full 2026 lineup: https://board.fun/pages/coming-soon 1. Board Sports: Best for virtual sports competitions Play Golf, Pool, and Bowling in a three-game sports series only possible on Board. Like Wii Sports for the tabletop, it turns the screen and pieces into a quick, active competition the whole family can rally around. Great for friendly tournaments and players who would rather move than sit still. Coming Fall 2026. Platform: Board 2. Thrasos: Best for territory capture Choose one of the gods of Olympus in a head-to-head strategy duel to conquer your opponent’s city-state. It’s a deeper, territory-capture style of play, think Risk distilled into sharp, tactical rounds, aimed at teens and adults who want a real strategic challenge. Coming July 2026. Platform: Board 3. The Magic Shop: Best for cooperative team play Master potions and spells and run your own shop in this synchronous cooperative game. Up to eight players work the counter at once, so it scales from a small family to a full party, everyone brewing, selling, and scrambling together in real time. If Chop Chop is a hit at your table, this is the next one to watch. Coming 2026. Platform: Board 4. Board Tabletop: Best for tabletop RPG nights Bring tabletop RPGs to Board. Play with a web-based virtual tabletop, or load your own maps and track pieces right on the screen using Board bases on your mini figures. Built for Dungeons and Dragons nights and any campaign that lives on a map, it gives your group one shared surface to gather around. Coming July 2026. Platform: Board What makes a video game or console family friendly?  Family-friendly games should be easy to jump into and fun for players of all ages. The best ones keep everyone involved, rather than turning one person into the main player while everyone else watches. Different consoles create different types of family game nights. Nintendo Switch is known for party games, local multiplayer, and simple controls. Games like Mario Kart and Nintendo Switch Sports are easy to pick up, even for younger kids or people who don’t play games often. PS5 and Xbox also have family games, especially co-op adventures, sports games, and creative sandbox titles.  Still, the console itself is only part of it. A family-friendly game should make people talk, laugh, react, and play together at the same time. Research has found that intergenerational family gaming can support parent-child relationships and create positive shared experiences. That’s part of what makes Board feel different from a traditional console setup. Instead of handing each player a controller and a separate view of the screen, Board puts everyone around one surface. Custom physical pieces sit directly on the touchscreen, so play stays tactile and social: you’re reaching across the table, reacting together, and talking the whole time. There’s no app store or browser either, since Board only runs games, which keeps game night focused on the people at the table rather than the device. Most titles are designed for ages 6+, but they’re easy enough that the youngest players can join in too. How to choose the best family game console games The best family game console games depend on who’s playing and what kind of experience you want. Some families want active party games they can play for 20 minutes, while others want longer co-op games that they can come back to every weekend. Before choosing a game or console, think about: Age range: Check whether the game matches the ages of the people playing. Younger children may need simpler rules, while older players may enjoy more strategy or longer-term objectives. Local vs. online play: Decide whether you want everyone to play in the same room or to connect from different locations. Online play may require additional devices, accounts, or subscriptions. Competitive vs. co-op gameplay: Consider how your group likes to play. Head-to-head competition creates a different experience than working toward a shared goal. Session length: Look at how much time you typically have for game night. Some games fit into a 15-minute break, while others can fill an entire evening. Controller complexity: Choose a game with controls that match the experience level of the players involved. Subscription costs: Review any ongoing costs before choosing a platform. Online features and game libraries may require a monthly membership. Physical activity: Think about whether your group prefers motion-based games, seated gameplay, or a mix of both. Number of players: Confirm that the game supports the size of your group, especially if family game night regularly includes more than four people. Discover the face-to-face magic of Board for your next family game night Many families want game nights that keep everyone engaged in the same activity rather than splitting attention across multiple screens. Shared experiences often create more opportunities for conversation, teamwork, competition, and spontaneous moments that become part of the family's routine. Board was built around that idea. It’s a new kind of game console that combines the best of video and board games, with seven games ready to play out of the box and a library you can grow à la carte, plus new games and free expansions every month and no subscription. From quick arcade rounds to deep strategy challenges, there’s a game for every age, every skill, and every group at your table. Gather round and see how game night feels when everyone’s playing the same thing, together, and try it with free returns and a 30-day risk-free trial. Start a new family game night tradition with Board Family game console games FAQs What is the best family game console? The best family game console depends on the type of experience your family enjoys. Some families prefer simple controls, local multiplayer, and games that players of different ages can join quickly. Others look for co-op adventures, sports games, creative experiences, or larger online worlds they can explore together. Families can also choose game platforms that blend digital gameplay with physical pieces and shared table play. Platforms like Board bring players together around the same surface, combining interactive games with face-to-face conversation, teamwork, and competition. What console has the most games? PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC all offer large game libraries across different genres. The right option usually depends on the types of games your family enjoys most. Nintendo Switch is known for party games and local multiplayer titles. Xbox and PlayStation offer larger libraries of sports, action, co-op, and online multiplayer games. What are some good family video games? Popular family video games include Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Mario Party, Nintendo Switch Sports, Minecraft, Overcooked, Just Dance, LEGO Fortnite, and Jackbox Party Pack. Some families also prefer games built around face-to-face interaction and group play. Games on Board, including Space Rocks, Chop Chop, and Omakase, focus on shared in-room experiences instead of separate screens or side-by-side play where everyone stares at a screen rather than engaging directly.

A family game console can be one of the easiest ways to pull off a fun family game night. Kids already love video games, with 85% of teens saying they play them, so a console meets your family where it already wants to be. But picking the right one takes more than buying the newest console on the shelf. The best one for your family depends on how easily everyone starts playing, how many can join at once, and the budget for controllers and games. The library also needs games for every age in your house, so your younger kids can play alongside your teens. This guide walks through the top family game consoles, who each one fits, and what to check before you buy. By the end, you'll know exactly which console matches how you want your family to spend time together. Key takeaways The best family game console matches your kids' ages, the number of players you’ll have, and what types of games you prefer. Most consoles ship with one controller and games built for only one to two players, so check how many people can actually play together before you buy. Watch the real cost. Games, extra controllers, and monthly memberships can add up to more than the console itself. Board.fun is the best family game console for face-to-face fun, with seven games included, room for up to six players, and no subscription to play. Best family game consoles: Quick overview Console Best for Starting cost Players Games included Board.fun Families who want all ages playing together at the same table $399.00 1-6 (10+ with teams) Seven Playstation 5 Sim Families with teens who like the biggest single-player titles $599.99- $649.99 1-4 (with extra controllers) None Xbox Series X Action and sports games $599.99- $649.99 1-4 (with extra controllers) None Nintendo Switch 2 Families who love Nintendo characters like Mario and Zelda $449.99-$499.99 1-4 (with extra Joy-Cons) None standalone; one with bundle Steam Deck OLED Families who want to share computer games on the go $789- $949 1 (handheld) None Best family game consoles To build this list, we looked at the top family game consoles available today. Then we checked how quickly everyone can start playing, what each system really costs once you purchase games and accessories, and whether the games suit every age at the table. 1. Board: Best for families who want all ages playing together at the same table Board.fun is the first face-to-face game console designed to bring everyone together. A six-year-old, a teenager, and a grandparent can all stay in the same game—no one falls behind, no one sits out. Everyone gathers around the same 24-inch screen, faces each other, and watches the same view. The console swaps controllers for real, physical pieces. Lay it flat, drop a piece on the screen, and Board picks up exactly what it is, where it sits, and how it moves. Seven games and every piece set come included, with no subscription required. The library spans arcade, strategy, action, and party play, with most games built for ages six and up. Groups of all sizes can jump in at once, making it easy to fill a table for a full-on game night. Additional games are sold individually—no subscription, no bundles. New titles and free expansions land throughout 2026, and a 30-day return window lets families try the console at home before deciding. Recommended games: Chop Chop: A co-op cooking game where players take orders, prep ingredients, and race the clock on a shared screen. Board Arcade: A collection of five reimagined arcade classics with team play built in. Spycraft: A globe-trotting mystery where players use spy tools to crack codes and unravel an international case. Cost: Console: $399 (includes seven games and their piece sets) Additional games: $34.95 each, with their own piece sets Extra controllers: None required Subscription: None Learn more about Board.fun 2. PlayStation 5 Slim: Best for families with teens who like the biggest single-player titles The PlayStation 5 Slim is a home console that plugs into your TV and comes with one controller. One person plays at a time unless you buy extra controllers. Most of its popular games, like Spider-Man and God of War, are built for a single player, so one person plays while others watch. Some titles support two players on a split screen, and a few support up to four with extra controllers, mostly in racing and sports games. Online play with friends requires a PlayStation Plus membership, which costs extra each month. The games tend to aim at older kids, teens, and adults, with many rated for ages 13 and up. Everyone plays in front of the same TV, turning it into the focal point of family game night. Recommended games: Astro's Playroom: A platformer included free with the console — suitable for most ages Gran Turismo 7: A racing game that supports split-screen for two players EA Sports FC: A soccer game that allows several players to compete in the same match Cost: Console: $599.99 (Digital Edition) or $649.99 (Disc Edition) Games: $60 to $70 each, sold separately Extra controllers: About $75 each Online play: PlayStation Plus membership required, starting at $10.99/mo 3. Xbox Series X: Best for action and sports games The Xbox Series X is a home console that sits by your TV, ships with one controller, and runs games on a big screen while extra players watch or wait for a turn. Its library leans toward action games, shooters, racing, and sports, and many of those titles carry ratings for older kids, teens, and adults. Most titles limit local play to two players, but racing, sports, and building games like Minecraft can support up to four with extra controllers. Online play with friends requires a paid membership. You can also add a Game Pass membership to download from a rotating library instead of buying each game on its own. Adding players in the room means buying extra controllers, and like most new systems, the console needs account setup and updates before the first game runs. Recommended games: Minecraft: A building game that several players can join in the same world Forza Horizon: A racing game that supports split-screen for two players It Takes Two: A game built for two players that requires teamwork to finish Cost: Console: $599.99 (Digital Edition) or $649.99 (Disc Edition) Games: $60 to $70 each, sold separately Extra controllers: About $65 each Game Pass membership and online play: Starts at $9.99/mo 4. Nintendo Switch 2: Best for families who love Nintendo characters like Mario and Zelda The Nintendo Switch 2 is a console that works two ways. You can dock it to play on the TV, or pick it up and play on its own built-in screen. It comes with two controllers, called Joy-Cons, that slide off the sides, so two people can play together right out of the box without buying anything extra. Popular games center on Nintendo's own characters and series, likeMario, Zelda, and Pokémon, and most of them carry ratings suitable for younger kids and up. Many titles let two or more people play in the same game, whether racing, sports, or party games where everyone joins a round. On the handheld screen, only one or two can really see at once, so larger groups gather around the TV instead. Recommended games: Mario Kart World: A racing game where up to four players can race on a split screen Super Mario Party: A collection of mini-games for up to four players competing on the same screen. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: A fighting game starring Nintendo characters, with up to eight players on the same screen. Cost: Console: $449.99 on its own, or $499.99 in a bundle with one game Games: $70 to $80 each, sold separately Extra Joy-Con controllers: About $90 a pair Online features: Nintendo membership required for some titles 5. Steam Deck OLED: Best for families who want to share computer games on the go TheSteam Deck OLED is a handheld gaming device, closer to a portable computer than a traditional console. You hold it in your hands like a large phone, with the controls built into both sides of the screen. One person plays at a time, so a family would pass it around rather than play together. It runs games from Steam, a large online store of computer games, which gives it a wide range of titles across every type, from simple puzzles to detailed adventures. Most of those games suit teens and adults, and some take a bit of know-how to set up and adjust. You can connect it to a TV with extra accessories, but on its own it stays a single-player, in-your-hands device. It comes ready to play out of the box, with no second controller to add, because the controls stay attached to the unit. Recommended games: Civilization: A turn-based strategy series where players take turns building empires on the same device Cuphead: A challenging action game that supports two players with a connected controller Lego games: A series of family-friendly adventures, played solo or with a second controller Cost: Console: $789 for the 512GB model or $949 for the 1TB model Games: Bought separately through Steam, from a few dollars to $70 TV dock: Around $30 for third-party options, up to $80 for Valve's official Extra controllers for group play: Around $65 to $75 each Online features: No subscription required to play games you own What to look for when choosing a family game console The right family game console truly comes down to who’s in your family. Things like how old your kids are, how many people want to play at once, and how much you plan to spend after the console itself determines everything. Before you buy, weigh the following: Game library: Look at how many of the games suit the people in your house, not just how many games exist. Check whether a console leans toward solo adventures or games several people can play together, since that decides whether game night includes everyone or just one player at a time. Make a short list of games you'd actually want, then confirm they work for the number of players you have. Ease of setup and play: Think about how long it takes to get from opening the box to playing a game. Some consoles need accounts, downloads, and updates first, which can eat up an evening before anyone starts. Consider who picks up the controls easily too, since a young child or a grandparent gives up fast when a game takes too long to learn. Replayability without subscription lock-in: Add up what you pay after the console. Some systems charge a monthly membership to play online or to keep a library of games, and those fees continue for as long as you own it. Verify whether the games come included or cost extra, and whether you keep them for good or lose access when a subscription ends, so a console that looks affordable doesn't turn into a long-term, monthly expense. Age-appropriate games: Check the age ratings on the games, not just the console. A system aimed at teens often fills its library with games too difficult or too mature for a six-year-old, which leaves the youngest players watching instead of joining. Look for a console with games that fit every age at your table, so nobody sits out. Find the family game console that brings everyone together The right family game console isn't the most powerful or the newest one. It's the one that gets your whole family in the same room, having fun together instead of drifting off to separate screens. Weigh how many can play, what it really costs, and whether the games fit every age, and you'll land on a console built for time together, not time apart. Board.fun was built around a simple idea: pulling the family toward each other. Everyone sits around the same table, holds a physical piece in their hands, and plays the same game at the same time. That's why Board.fun fits where most consoles fall short on family game night. Setup takes minutes, not an evening. Nobody waits their turn alone or sits on the sidelines. Everything you need to start playing comes in the box, so the first game night happens the day Board arrives. Start game night with Board.