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15 Best Family Board Games Singapore To Try [2024]

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Family Board Games Singapore

Best Family Board Games Singapore
Best Family Board Games Singapore

Finding the right board games can transform a routine family night into an extraordinary adventure of strategy, skill, and laughter.

The best family board games in Singapore include monopoly, Jenga, scrabble, pandemic, and chess.

When selecting a family board game to enjoy in Singapore, take into account aspects like age group, player count, and level of difficulty.

Board games are making a comeback in Singapore, becoming a beloved activity for families and friends looking for interactive fun.

Discover the top family board games in Singapore for a fun-filled game night, perfect for both locals and visitors looking to liven up family gatherings!

Quick Summary

  • Best family board games in Singapore include monopoly, Jenga, scrabble, pandemic, and chess.
  • When choosing a family board games to play in Singapore, consider factors such as age range, number of players, and complexity.
  • Board games have seen a resurgence in popularity in Singapore, becoming a favored pastime for families and friends seeking interactive entertainment.

Our Selection Criteria

We used the following criteria to select the best family board games:

  • Fun Factor: We prioritized games that deliver a high level of enjoyment and laughter, ensuring they offer a memorable experience for all family members.
  • Ease of Learning: Games that are simple to understand and play right out of the box were favored. We understand that not everyone wants to spend hours learning complex rules.
  • Replay Value: We chose games that can be played repeatedly without losing their appeal, offering variety and challenge in each session.
  • Player Engagement: We looked for games that keep all players involved and engaged throughout the game, minimizing downtime.
  • Age Range and Flexibility: We considered games that cater to a broad age range and can be enjoyed by both younger and older players, ensuring a wide appeal.

Best Family Board Games Singapore

1. Monopoly

Monopoly
Monopoly

The origins of this enduring classic family board games can be traced back to the year 1903 when American anti-monopolist Lizzie Magie conceptualized a game to demonstrate the single tax theory.

Originally recognized as The Landlord’s Game, it underwent transformations to become what is now known as Monopoly by 1932.

This game not only has the capacity to last for hours, stretching into days, but it also has the unique ability to evoke a certain level of tension during gameplay.

So, be prepared for the possibility of emotional reactions, including tears and tempers, if the course of the game does not align with your expectations – especially yours, not the children’s.

2. Jenga

Jenga
Jenga

The timeless Jenga game provides a wealth of amusement (and perhaps a surprise moment of suspense – despite the inevitable topple) for children of all ages to enjoy.

The objective entails extracting bricks from the tower, stacking them atop, and anticipating the moment when your adversaries inadvertently cause the tower to collapse by removing one brick too many.

3. Scrabble

Scrabble
Scrabble

Scrabble, a true test of one’s vocabulary skills, continues to hold a cherished place as a classic board games enjoyed by people worldwide.

Targeting players aged 8 and above, the game presents a stimulating challenge requiring participants to strategically construct words on the board.

The value of each letter is determined by its rarity and placement on special squares that can multiply scores, adding an element of strategy to gameplay.

The strategic utilization of these letters has the potential to yield impressively high scores, particularly for those adept at making the most of the ‘triple word score’ squares.

Beyond its competitive nature, Scrabble also functions as an educational resource, offering a fun and interactive way to bolster vocabulary and spelling proficiency.

4. Pandemic

(Credit: Amazon)
(Credit: Amazon)

After successfully overcoming the various challenges experienced in recent years, it’s worth taking a moment to delve into the engaging world of this cooperative board game meticulously designed for a group of six enthusiastic participants.

Band together to tackle and eliminate four prevalent diseases through collaborative research and cure development efforts.

While the concept may appear straightforward at first glance, it’s important not to underestimate the complexity.

These diseases, reflecting real-world scenarios, carry the risk of triggering widespread outbreaks within urban areas.

Admittedly, given the ongoing global situation, this game may not be the most suitable choice. Some players even go as far as incorporating actual virus names during the game, potentially creating feelings of unease.

5. Chess

Chess
Chess

Often praised as the ultimate example of strategic gameplay, chess holds a deep-rooted history that stretches back through the ages.

Entering into this time-honored activity involves two players positioned on opposite sides of a checkered board, each in control of sixteen pieces with unique shapes and movement capabilities.

The primary objective? To capture the opponent’s king while defending one’s own monarch.

This mental pursuit requires unwavering concentration, strategic insight, and a profound understanding of the countless moves and consequences linked to each piece.

Despite its initial intricacy, chess offers a rewarding challenge suitable for individuals of any age.

6. Risk

(Credit: Toys"R"Us)
(Credit: Toys”R”Us)

Embark on an exhilarating adventure as you dive into the captivating world of Risk!

Geared towards players aged 10 and up, this game revolves around the pursuit of worldwide supremacy, requiring tactical cunning to outsmart opponents – even if they’re your own family members.

Engage in conquests and strive to achieve your hidden goals. Anticipate a high level of competition, so get ready to test your skills!

If you have younger children, consider delving into the exciting realm of Risk Junior, a fantastic starting point that eases players into the main game.

7. Guess Who?

(Credit: Dicebreaker)
(Credit: Dicebreaker)

A game that originated more than 40 years ago as a simple two-player challenge has recently undergone a contemporary revamp, complete with character illustrations designed specifically for the 21st century.

The initial release included a mere five female characters among the 24 available, all lacking in diversity.

In contrast, the updated version now presents an array of 11 female characters and 14 characters representing different ethnicities.

Children find delight in flipping through the characters and engaging in imaginative exchanges to guess each other’s mystery character.

8. Settlers of Catan

(Credit: Ars Technica)
(Credit: Ars Technica)

It is a tabletop game known for its ability to test friendships and disrupt relationships, but despite that, it continues to captivate us time and time again!

Though it appears to revolve around resources, the game of Catan is far from cordial.

Achieving victory in this game demands more than just luck and strategy; it necessitates exceptional negotiation abilities, extensive practice, and some individuals might contend, an unwavering determination.

9. Pictionary

(Credit: Board Game Halv)
(Credit: Board Game Halv)

Pictionary is a beloved game enjoyed by all, including the entire family (yes, even the grandparents can join in on the fun!).

Each player gets a minute to showcase their artistic skills, channeling their inner Picasso to convey the card for their team to guess.

What adds to the excitement are the creative and often amusing guesses made during the game!

10. Connect 4

Connect 4
Connect 4

Connect 4 is a game that demands the application of critical thinking skills alongside the need for swift reflexes.

The game involves players strategically placing colored discs into a vertical grid, with the goal of being the first to create a sequence of four in a row.

Despite its apparent simplicity, each round presents unique challenges, making it a delightful and engaging experience for all participants involved.

11. Snakes and Ladders

Snakes and Ladders
Snakes and Ladders

Everyone loves this timeless game!

With its roots believed to trace back to ancient India, it offers entertainment for a group of two or more players.

Rolling the dice is how you determine the number of steps to advance.

Ascending ladders and avoiding snakes inject excitement – aim to reach the pinnacle for victory! Age is merely a figure in this enduring classic board game.

12. Chinese checkers

Chinese checkers
Chinese checkers

Players choose a color when playing Chinese checkers, with the objective of strategically maneuvering all their pieces to the opposite side of the board.

Every turn involves the option of moving a single step or executing a leap over another game piece.

While the game primarily revolves around strategic thinking, employing brute force can sometimes be a winning tactic.

Remember, upholding fair play is crucial to prevent any instances of cheating during the game.

13. Blokus

(Credit: Toys"R"Us)
(Credit: Toys”R”Us)

Blokus stands out as a reliable favorite among families, offering an engaging gaming experience.

This abstract strategy board game, suitable for two to four players, has garnered esteemed accolades such as the Mensa Select Award and the 2004 Teacher’s Choice Award.

Contrary to initial assumptions, Blokus proves to be anything but dull. Players are immersed in a strategic battle as they strategically position their pieces on the board, dodging obstacles and spatial constraints.

It presents a stimulating and challenging activity that effectively stimulates cognitive functions.

14. Battleship

Battleship
Battleship

Battleship is an engaging game centered around strategic gameplay designed for two players. The primary objective of the game is to strategically sink the opponent’s fleet of ships.

Before the game commences, each player strategically and inconspicuously places their ships on their respective side of the grid, utilizing both horizontal and vertical orientations to confound their opponent.

The gameplay unfolds as players alternate turns attempting to pinpoint the locations of the rival ships. It is important to note that ships may be rearranged out of frustration during the course of the game.

15. KerPlunk

(Credit: Recovery in the Bin)
(Credit: Recovery in the Bin)

KerPlunk, known for its iconic plastic design, has sustained its popularity since the 1960s and continues to provide family entertainment to this day.

The game comprises a tube, a variety of plastic sticks, and numerous marbles.

Participants strategically remove sticks one by one, with the objective of preventing marbles from falling through the straws into their designated tray.

The ultimate victor is the player left with the fewest marbles at the game’s conclusion.

Family Board Games Singapore

Exploring the world of board games reveals a treasure trove of experiences that not only entertain but also bring people closer, irrespective of age or interests.

Whether you’re revisiting these classics or discovering them for the first time, the joy and connection they foster make every game night memorable.

It’s clear that board games, with their rich histories and inclusive designs, continue to charm and engage, making them a beloved pastime for many around the globe.

If you want to read more interesting articles, follow the links below:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you have any questions about family board games in Singapore, you can refer to the frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the best Family Board Games in Singapore below:

What are the best family board games in Singapore?

The best family board games in Singapore include monopoly, Jenga, scrabble, pandemic, Monopoly Deal Card Game, The Singaporean Dream, and chess.

What are some favorite board games for family game night in Singapore?

Favorites include classic games like Monopoly Singapore Edition and modern board games such as Codenames and Avalon. These offer a mix of strategy and fun suitable for family gatherings.

Can traditional board games still compete with video game for younger kids’ attention?

Absolutely! Traditional board games like Connect 4 and Scrabble have evolved with engaging editions that capture the fun and imagination of young kids, making them big fans.

Are there cooperative game suitable for family game night?

Yes, cooperative games like Pandemic allow family members to work together towards a common goal, making for an exciting and unified game night experience for up to four players.

What’s a fun game for families with children of different ages?

Sushi Go! offers fast paced fun that’s easy to understand for younger kids but still engaging for older children and adults, making it perfect for families looking for a card game that everyone can enjoy.

How can I incorporate strategy games into family game night?

Games like Catan 5th Edition or Qwirkle involve strategic planning and can be enjoyed by up to four players, offering a challenging yet fun way to engage the whole family.

Are there any board games inspired by Harry Potter for fans?

Fans of Harry Potter will find several rounds of magical fun with themed board games that transport players into the wizarding world, allowing them to compete as their favorite characters or work together against other players.

What’s a good classic game that’s been updated for modern play?

Classic games like Monopoly have seen numerous updates, including the Singapore Edition, which adds a local twist to the beloved game, making it a hit for both traditionalists and those looking for something new.

Can you recommend a fun game for up to eight players?

For larger families or gatherings, games like Avalon support up to eight players and provide a mix of deception and strategy, ensuring everyone gets to participate and have a great time.

What sounds easy but offers a challenge in family board games?

Games like 6 Nimmt! may sound easy at first glance, but they require tactical thinking to win as many points as possible, offering several rounds of engaging gameplay for the whole family.

Who typically goes as the first player in a game board setting?

In many family board games, the rules to decide the first player vary from game to game. Some games suggest that the youngest player goes first to give them a slight advantage or to level the playing field, while others may have a unique method related to the theme of the game, such as the last person who visited Singapore or the person who most recently cooked a meal. It’s always a good idea to check the rulebook of your chosen game for specific instructions on how to determine the first player, ensuring a fair start for everyone involved.

Rachel Tan - FunEmpire

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I'm currently the editor at FunEmpire Media Singapore. I've over 8 years of experience in the media industry discovering the best local businesses, places and things to do in Singapore. From lifestyle, entertainment, food, travel, education and more, I strive to curate the very best Singapore has to offer.