Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Game Night Starters: The Ultimate Beginner Board Game Collection

Purple Star emoji 30 items
As a passionate new board game collector, I’ve recently begun exploring the world of tabletop gaming. Perfect for family nights, parties, and new gamers, this is a curated selection of my top 30 games, a mix of strategy, party, and classic games desi...
Map
Sections
2
 
 

Family-Friendly, Light, and Party Games

Easy-to-play, fun games perfect for casual gatherings and all ages.

 
Jonathan profile picture
A classic must-have for me, easy to learn, fun to play, and it brings out my competitive side every time.
UNO Card Game for Kids, Adults & Family Game Night, Original UNO Game of Matching Colors & Numbers
 
Jonathan profile picture
A gameplay that keeps everyone engaged and on their toes.
Pinata Blast
 
Jonathan profile picture
I love HABA Karuba because it’s a fun, strategic tile-laying game
HABA Karuba - Adventure Tile Placement Family Puzzle Game & Kids Board Games
 
Jonathan profile picture
It’s the perfect icebreaker that keeps the energy high. Just hope the neighbors don’t mind the noise!
Happy Salmon - a 90 Second Party Game by Exploding Kittens
 
Jonathan profile picture
Don’t let the name fool you haha This is a fast and strategic card game that keeps me hooked every time.
Sushi Go! by Phil Walker-Harding
 
Jonathan profile picture
I played Fantasma once at a friend’s house and fell in love with it immediately
Board game Fantasma Blitz (Es)
 
Jonathan profile picture
full of surprises, twists, and big decisions that make every playthrough feel like a new adventure. The kids will love it just as much as I do.
The Game Of Life
 
Jonathan profile picture
It’s all about steady hands, quick thinking. Simple, but never boring.
Melissa & Doug Suspend Family Game (31 pcs)
 
Jonathan profile picture
it’s my go‑to family game
Board Game Turista Mundial Fotorama de Mexico Brand new & El original
placeholder
 
Jonathan profile picture
Beautifully illustrated storytelling board game that sparks imagination and creativity with every round. It’s easy to learn, perfect for family game night.
Dixit New 2021 Edition Board Game for Ages 8+, from Asmodee
 
Jonathan profile picture
Turns every gathering into a riot. Sketching, guessing, and watching crazy miscommunications swirl around the table. With up to 12 players, it’s perfect for big groups, and it never fails to get us laughing.
Telestrations® 12 Player (2nd Edition)
 
Jonathan profile picture
If you’re a big fan of Friends, you’ll love this UNO with a twist. Perfectly blends classic gameplay with the hilarious spirit and iconic moments of the show, making every round a nostalgic and fun experience!
UNO Friends Card Game for Family, Adult & Party Nights, Collectible Inspired by TV Series
 
Jonathan profile picture
Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational game, Timeline Classic offers a unique and enjoyable experience.
Timeline Classic Card Game by Asmodee
 
Jonathan profile picture
We have the best time playing this game. Lots of laughs. You don't have to be a movie buff to win.
The Blockbuster Game: A Movie Party Game for the Whole Family
 
Jonathan profile picture
Lots of fun and memories! If you grew up during the 'I want my MTV' era, this is a true throwback.
MTV Game The Music Throwback Party Game Spin Master Games Quiz Board Game

Strategy, Classic, and Themed Board Games

These games are suited for those seeking a more involved and thoughtful gaming experience, perfect for game nights and dedicated gaming enthusiasts.

 
Jonathan profile picture
The game that keeps my guests hooked every time.
Catan Family Strategy Board Game: 5th Edition for Ages 10 and up, from Asmodee
 
Jonathan profile picture
it’s a beautiful and strategic tile-placement game that’s easy to learn. relaxing yet competitive.
Azul Family Tile Strategy Game for Ages 8+, from Asmodee - Free Shipping
 
Jonathan profile picture
The game that started it all for me. It's my all-time favorite: simple, elegant, and endlessly replayable.
Splendor Board Game: Space Cowboys Strategy & War Game for 2-4 Players, Creative Thinking, 30-Minute Play
 
Jonathan profile picture
My introduction to tile-laying games, and I’ve loved it ever since. It’s simple to start, but the strategy keeps me coming back every time.
Carcassonne Strategy Board Game for Adults and Families, Award-Winning Tile Placement Game, 2-5 Players, Ages 7+
 
Jonathan profile picture
A mix of excitement and friendly competition.  All about clever moves, and moments of surprise that keep me hooked until the very end.
Asmodee Ticket to Ride - Refresh Board Game: Strategy & War Game, 2-5 Players, 30-60 Minutes, Geography Focus
 
Jonathan profile picture
I love how each match feels quick yet exciting. It’s perfect for both casual fun and serious competition.
Santorini, Strategy Family Board Game 2-4 Players Classic Fun Building Greek Mythology Card Game, for Kids & Adults Ages 8 and up
 
Jonathan profile picture
It adds an extra layer of strategy, making each decision more impactful and the game more engaging.
Lost Cities - Card Game - with 6Th Expedition
 
Jonathan profile picture
A satisfying puzzle that challenges my planning and spatial reasoning skills.
Flood Gate Games - Sagrada: Life - Board Game
 
Jonathan profile picture
Great strategy game that doesn't require a lot of time.
7 Wonders New Edition Board Game for Ages 10 and up, from Asmodee
 
Jonathan profile picture
If you’re looking for a classic board game with strategy, diplomacy, and a bit of luck is a must have
Risk 1959
 
Jonathan profile picture
I can’t recommend this game enoug!! Cascadia has quickly become a staple of our game nights, and it's absolutely visually stunning.
Cascadia, Award-Winning Board Game Set in Pacific Northwest, Build Nature Corridors, Attract Wildlife, Ages 10+, 1-4 Players, 30-45 Min, Flatout Games, Alderac Entertainment Group (AEG)
 
Jonathan profile picture
Perfect for Disney lovers. Beautiful components and engaging strategy. Great for tweens and teens ,not ideal for younger kids as it requires a good deal of strategy.
Ravensburger Disney Villainous: Wicked to the Core Strategy Board Game for Age 10 & Up - 2019 TOTY Game of the Year Award Winner
 
Jonathan profile picture
The artwork on every card is stunning, so much details and care clearly went into crafting this game.
Wingspan by Elizabeth Hargrave - A Relaxing Strategy Board Game About Birds, from Stonemaier Games
 
Jonathan profile picture
Fantastic card game, easy to learn with plenty to think about. I brought it to a Christmas work party, and it was a huge hit.
Asmodee Sea Salt and Paper From 2 to 4 Players 8 Years and Up BOMSSP01FREN
 
Jonathan profile picture
This is a really fun game to play in groups of 4 or more.
Smart 10 Trivia Quiz Interactive Family Friendly Party Board Game Bananagrams BNASMT001