When you have a large family, finding activities everyone can enjoy together can be challenging. But board games are a fantastic way to bring people of all ages together for some fun and friendly competition. Whether your kids are toddlers or teenagers, or you have a mix of both, there are board games that will keep everyone entertained. Here are the 10 best board games to play with a large family:
1. Codenames
Codenames is a word-based game where players split into two teams and try to guess their team’s words based on one-word clues given by their teammates. It’s perfect for larger groups and can accommodate up to 8 players, making it ideal for a big family. The game promotes communication and team strategy, and the fast-paced nature keeps everyone engaged.
2. Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a classic strategy game where players collect train cards to claim railway routes across the country. With easy-to-understand rules and a fun, competitive edge, this game is great for families. The more players, the more exciting it gets, and with expansions available, the game can easily accommodate even larger groups.
3. The Game of Life
The Game of Life is a nostalgic favorite that simulates the twists and turns of real life. Players go through the motions of education, careers, family life, and financial planning. This family-friendly game is perfect for big families because it allows for 2 to 6 players, and its simple gameplay engages players of all ages.
4. Pictionary
Pictionary is a classic drawing and guessing game guaranteed to make everyone laugh. Whether you’re a great artist or terrible at drawing, the fun comes from trying to convey your clues as quickly as possible. With up to 8 players, it’s perfect for a large family gathering, and you can always make it more challenging by using custom rules or themes.
5. Monopoly
Monopoly is an old-school classic that can easily accommodate up to 8 players. Players compete to buy and trade properties, develop monopolies, and bankrupt opponents. While the game can get a bit long, it offers many strategies, negotiation, and friendly rivalry opportunities. If you’re playing with a big family, consider the Monopoly Deal card game for a quicker version.
6. Apples to Apples
This hilarious card game involves matching up cards with nouns to adjectives, with the judge selecting the funniest or most fitting combination. Apples to Apples can accommodate a large group, and because it’s easy to learn and play, even younger family members can join in on the fun.
7. Pandemic
Pandemic is a cooperative board game where players work together as a team of specialists trying to stop global disease outbreaks. This game is ideal for families who enjoy working together and facing challenges as a team. It accommodates up to 4 players, but you can add expansions to bring in more participants.
8. Telestrations
Telestrations is a drawing and guessing game similar to Pictionary but with a twist. Each player starts by drawing a picture based on a prompt, and the next player has to guess what the drawing is, and so on. The result is a hilarious series of misinterpretations, perfect for larger groups and families with a sense of humor.
9. 7 Wonders
In 7 Wonders, players build civilizations by gathering resources, developing structures, and engaging in military conquests. This card-based strategy game can support 3 to 7 players and is fast-paced, making it an excellent choice for a big family looking for a game that’s engaging and full of depth yet not too lengthy.
10. King of Tokyo
King of Tokyo is a fun, fast-paced game where players take on the role of giant monsters battling it out for dominance of Tokyo. With dice rolling, power-ups, and a bit of strategy, this game is perfect for families looking for a quick and engaging battle royale. It supports up to 6 players and offers a lot of fun for younger and older family members.
Whether you’re looking for a competitive challenge, a cooperative experience, or something full of laughs, these 10 board games are perfect for large families. They’re fun, engaging, and guaranteed to keep everyone entertained for hours. So gather your loved ones and let the games begin.
Need budgeting tips for large families? Check out Budgeting for a Large Family: Tips and Tricks That Actually Work.
Farah Zeb is a mother of five, including two children with special needs. She shares practical parenting tips and resources to help other families navigate daily challenges and create supportive, nurturing environments.
