Game nights have become a treasured tradition in our house. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a cozy evening after dinner, there’s something magical about gathering around the table and diving into a game together. Over the years, we’ve tried a lot of games, and while some were one-hit wonders, others became instant classics in our family. Today, I want to share our absolute favorites — the games that get pulled off the shelf again and again.

Outfoxed: If your kids love a good mystery, Outfoxed is a must. It’s a cooperative game where everyone works together to solve the case of the missing pie by gathering clues and eliminating suspects. It’s a clever introduction to logic and deduction, all wrapped up in a fun whodunit adventure. This is my absolute favorite game to play with my kids.

Dragon Dash: This is a newer addition to our collection, and it’s quickly become a hit. It’s a cooperative game where players work together to build a path across the board while avoiding dragons. It’s simple, fast-paced, and gets everyone cheering each other on.

Uno: A timeless classic. There’s something so satisfying about slapping down a Draw Four card and watching the reactions around the table. It’s easy for kids to learn but stays exciting no matter how many times you play. If we need a reset for the day or only have ten minutes, I reach for Uno.

Blink: Dubbed the world’s fastest game, Blink is all about speed and observation. Players race to match cards by color, shape, or number, and rounds fly by in a blur. It’s perfect for quick bursts of fun or as a warm-up before a longer game.

Yeti in My Spaghetti: Silly, simple, and so much fun. The goal is to carefully remove noodles without letting the Yeti fall into the bowl. It feels like a playful twist on Jenga and always gets a lot of giggles. This is a great first game to try because it’s all about taking turns.

Guess Who: I loved this game as a kid, and now my kids love it too. There’s something so satisfying about narrowing down the suspects with yes-or-no questions until you finally land on the right one.

Connect Four: A true classic. Simple strategy, satisfying wins, and quick rounds make it a perfect game for kids and adults alike. For my two year old, she just likes to make patterns with the black and red circles.

Battleship: There’s a reason this game has stood the test of time. It teaches strategy and a little bit of luck while players try to sink each other’s fleets. The excitement of calling out “You sunk my battleship!” never gets old. Be aware: this one takes a while to play.

Clue Jr.: For the little detectives in your life, Clue Jr. is a fun introduction to the mystery-solving genre. It simplifies the original game, making it more accessible for younger kids while still keeping the thrill of cracking the case.

Ticket to Ride Jr.: We love the full version of Ticket to Ride, but the junior edition is perfect for younger players. It simplifies the rules while still offering plenty of strategy, and it’s a fantastic way to introduce kids to board games that involve a bit more planning.

Checkers and Chess: These two classics deserve a spot on every game shelf. Checkers is quick and satisfying, while chess offers endless depth and strategy. Watching my kids learn the game and start to think several moves ahead has been so rewarding.

Each of these games holds a special place in our family’s heart, and I hope they bring as much joy to your home as they have to ours. Whether you’re looking for a quick game before bedtime or a longer adventure for a weekend afternoon, there’s something on this list for everyone. Happy gaming!