There’s something really magical about the holiday season, and it’s not just the lights, music, and endless excuses to eat… it’s the togetherness of it all! And what better way to bring people together than a good board game?
Whether you’re shopping for the hobby gamer who tracks their plays in a spreadsheet, the family that loves a good post-dinner game, or just yourself (because self-gifting is a form of self-care), here are five of the best board games to gift in 2025 that will make your holiday nights sparkle just a little bit brighter.
How to choose the perfect board game gift
- Think about who you’re gifting for; is it families, strategy lovers, or solo players?
- Consider playtime and complexity (short & fun vs. deep & strategic).
- Artwork and components matter; games that look great, make perfect gifts!
- Don’t forget to consider the player count; some people might only be able to play solo or with two players.
With that in mind, here are five fantastic board games that are sure to make any gamer’s holiday dreams come true…
River of Gold
For the player who loves beautiful games and grand economies!
If Monopoly grew up, went to art school, and discovered resource management, we imagine it would look something like River of Gold. But unlike Monopoly, we promise this game won’t make you want to flip the table, or uninvite anyone from the holidays next year!
This light-to-midweight euro game invites players to build their economic empires along a stunning river system. It’s an elegant experience with low player interaction, and is perfect for those who like to focus on their own strategy instead of sabotaging others.
The art? Gorgeous. The gameplay? Smooth and satisfying. The competitiveness? Subtle, yet deliciously rewarding. It’s the kind of game that feels chill while secretly exercising your strategic brain cells.
The Hobbit: There and Back Again™
For the adventurer who wants an epic journey without leaving the couch.
This brand-new roll-and-write adventure lets you experience Bilbo’s iconic journey in a cozy, compact format. Think of it as eight mini-games stitched together into one grand story! You’ll roll dice, make clever choices, and watch your adventure unfold on paper.
It’s welcoming for families and light gamers, but it’s also perfect for solo nights in, wrapped in a blanket with a mug of something warm. Whether you’re crossing mountains or searching your way through riddles in the dark, it’s the perfect blend of cozy and clever.
Bonus: It doesn’t take up much space, which means there’s still plenty of room on the table for snacks. #priorities
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring™ Trick-Taking Game
For those who like their teamwork intense… but somehow, quiet?
This is the rare game that’s highly social and yet oddly silent. It’s a cooperative trick-taking game that asks players to relive the trials of The Fellowship, challenging you to work together to complete different tasks to succeed, all without being able to actually speak!
It’s quick, clever, and the kind of game that can make a great stocking stuffer, or the perfect “just one more game” addition to your evening lineup. It’s suitable for just about any gamer, unless they already own it (in which case, you can give the gift of patience and pre-order them a copy of The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers™ Trick-Taking Game).
This gift does come with a word of warning though… it might lead to intense eye contact across the table as you try to communicate what’s in your hand without breaking the no-talking rule. You’ve been warned.
Word Traveler
For the wordsmith, travel connoisseur, or party game lover in your life.
If their game nights lean toward the social, silly, and collaborative, but they still want something that feels clever and fresh, Word Traveler is the ticket.
In this cooperative, clue-giving party game, players work together to uncover which destinations their travelers are dreaming of visiting. It’s a blend of Code Names-style wordplay and Dixit-style deduction, all wrapped in a sleek, premium package.
Word Traveler is the perfect pick for families, casual gamers, or anyone looking to bring some light gaming joy to the table this holiday season.
No passports required, just a good sense of humor and a love of words.
Crafting the Cosmos
For the player who wants their brain deliciously fried.
Crafting the Cosmos is the definition of a “combo puzzle.” It’s midweight, it’s cosmic, and it’s gloriously satisfying. Each turn feels like building a galaxy of interlocking cogs, “if I do this, I get that, which lets me trigger this, which unlocks that…” you know the type.
It’s not for the faint of heart, but for players who love that mental spark of discovery, it’s a total supernova of joy. The table presence is huge (both literally and metaphorically), and by the end, you’ll feel like you’ve orchestrated the birth of a universe. Which, in a way, you actually have.
Wrapping it up (pun absolutely intended)
The holidays are, at their core, about connection. They’re about gathering together, laughing, thinking, sharing stories, and sometimes groaning dramatically when someone steals your victory points.
No matter which board games you choose to play or gift this holiday season, remember the real win is spending time with the people (and the pets) that make you happiest.
Pour the cocoa, roll the dice, shuffle the cards, and play something wonderful.
Happy holidays, and happy gaming.
Your friends at the table,
