The world of board gaming is thriving, thanks to the incredible variety of new games available today. Whether you're into family board games, strategy games, or any other genre, there's something for everyone. However, the allure of modern games doesn't diminish the value of older games. The best classic board games have remained popular for good reason, appealing to both newcomers and seasoned players alike.

TL;DR: The Best Classic Board Games

Azul Board Game

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Pandemic

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Ticket to Ride

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Catan

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Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective

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Can't Stop

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Acquire 60th Anniversary Edition

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Diplomacy

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Yahtzee

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Scrabble

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Othello

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Crokinole

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Liar's Dice

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Chess - Magnetic Set

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Playing Cards

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Go - Magnetic Board Game Set

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Modern board games have evolved significantly since the mid-90s, but exploring the classics offers a treasure trove of timeless enjoyment. Here's a look at some of the best classic board games, presented in reverse chronological order.

Azul (2017)

Azul Board Game

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Azul, though released in 2017, quickly earned its status as a modern classic. This abstract game, which is visually stunning with its vibrant, chunky tiles, is deceptively simple yet deeply engaging. Players take matching tiles from pools and arrange them on their boards, scoring points for completed rows, columns, and sets. The game's straightforward mechanics belie its strategic depth and interaction, making it a must-play.

For more insights, explore our in-depth review of Azul or check out its numerous expansions.

Pandemic (2008)

Pandemic

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Pandemic is the quintessential cooperative game that sparked a genre. Despite not being the first of its kind, its innovative mechanisms and accessible rules propelled it to fame. Players work together to stop the spread of diseases across the globe, racing against time to find cures. The game's tension and teamwork make it a thrilling experience.

Explore the base game and its many expansions and off-shoots for more cooperative fun.

Ticket to Ride (2004)

Ticket to Ride

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Designed by Alan R. Moon, Ticket to Ride and its spinoffs are based on the familiar set collection mechanics of Rummy, making them easy to learn yet challenging to master. Players collect colored cards to claim train routes, aiming to connect cities for bonus points. The game's tight maps and strategic blocking by opponents create an exhilarating experience.

Discover various versions and expansions to enhance your Ticket to Ride collection.

Settlers of Catan (1996)

Catan

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Now simply known as Catan, this game revolutionized modern board gaming with its blend of dice mechanics, trading, and route planning. Its impact on the gaming community was profound, sparking a new era of board games. Despite its slightly diminished popularity, Catan remains a compelling blend of luck and strategy.

Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective (1981)

Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective

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This unique game combines elements of a board game, whodunnit, and choose-your-own-adventure. Players collaborate to solve mysteries in Victorian London, aiming to outdo Sherlock Holmes himself. The game's atmospheric writing and engaging scenarios make it a standout choice.

Explore the game's expansion packs for more thrilling mysteries.

Can't Stop (1980)

Can't Stop

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Another classic by Sid Sackson, Can't Stop is a lively race to reach the top of three columns on the board. Players roll dice and advance markers, deciding whether to risk further rolls or secure their progress. The game's balance of luck and strategy is captivating, available in both board and mobile formats.

Acquire (1964)

Acquire 60th Anniversary Edition

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Sid Sackson's Acquire is often hailed as a precursor to modern gaming. Players create, merge, and invest in companies, navigating a grid to maximize profits. The game's blend of spatial challenges and economic strategy remains fresh and engaging.

Read our review of the Acquire: 60th Anniversary Edition for a deeper dive into this classic.

Diplomacy (1959)

Diplomacy

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Diplomacy is notorious for testing friendships with its intense gameplay. Set in 19th-century Europe, the game involves strategic alliances and inevitable betrayals, with no element of luck. Players write orders simultaneously, adding a layer of suspense and surprise.

Yahtzee (1956)

Yahtzee

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Yahtzee is the quintessential roll-and-write game, offering more strategy than meets the eye. Players roll dice and fill a scorecard, balancing luck with statistical decision-making. It's quick, fun, and perfect for family game nights.

Scrabble (1948)

Scrabble

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Scrabble is a beloved word game that challenges players to use their vocabulary and spatial skills. While turns can be slow, the game's strategic depth and widespread popularity make it a staple in many households.

Othello / Reversi (1883)

Othello

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Often mistaken for an ancient game, Othello is a strategic battle where players flip disks to control the board. Its simple rules lead to complex gameplay, making it a timeless classic.

Crokinole (1876)

Crokinole

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Canada's Crokinole is a dexterity game that combines skill with tactical positioning. Players flick disks into scoring zones, navigating around obstacles. The game's unique boards are both functional and decorative, adding to its appeal.

Perudo / Liar's Dice (1800)

Liar's Dice

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Known by various names, Liar's Dice involves secret dice rolls and bidding on outcomes. It's a game of bluffing and strategy, where players must outwit each other to win.

Chess (16th Century)

Chess - Magnetic Set

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Chess, with origins tracing back to 600 AD, remains a pinnacle of strategic gameplay. Its evolution from the Indian game Chaturanga has made it a global phenomenon, with countless sets available for enthusiasts.

Playing Cards (~900 AD)

Playing Cards

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Originating in China, playing cards offer endless gaming possibilities. From poker to bridge and beyond, a standard deck can unlock thousands of games, appealing to players of all ages and skill levels.

Go (~2200 BC)

Go - Magnetic Board Game Set

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Go, a game of profound depth, originated in Japan and China. Players place stones to control territory, engaging in a strategic battle that can last a lifetime. Its simple rules hide a complex game that continues to challenge players worldwide.

What makes a board game a “classic”?

The term "classic" is subjective, but key indicators include sales figures, influence on other games, and brand recognition. Games like Ticket to Ride, with over 10 million copies sold, have crossed into classic territory due to their widespread popularity. Games like Acquire, with revolutionary concepts, have influenced modern design despite their niche appeal. Finally, universally recognized games like Chess and Diplomacy are classics due to their enduring presence in popular culture.