When it's time to take a break from screens and digital devices, board games are the perfect way to satisfy your need for immersive gameplay and entertainment. Fortunately, there's a wide array of board games inspired by some of the most beloved video games, and we've gathered a selection of our top picks. Whether you're in the mood for a deep, engaging campaign or a quick and fun party game, these board game adaptations allow you to dive back into your favorite gaming worlds, even when you're stepping away from technology.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Video Game Board Games
FalloutSlay the SpireBloodborneResident Evil 2Pac-ManTetrisDark Souls the Board Game: Tomb of GiantsCuphead: Fast Rolling Dice GameThe Oregon TrailFallout
### Fallout: The Board Game
1$69.99 save 36%$44.49 at AmazonPlayers: 1-4Age Range: 14+Play Time: 2-3 hoursWith the recent buzz around Amazon's Fallout series, now is the ideal time to venture into the Wasteland from the comfort of your own home. You start by selecting from a variety of scenarios that set up the game's map. Much like the iconic open-world RPGs by Bethesda, players will explore and uncover the map, enhance various skills, battle mutated foes, engage with different factions, and embark on quests, all while vying for control over the Wasteland. This game is perfect for those who enjoy immersive, detail-rich gameplay and long gaming sessions.
Slay the Spire
### Slay the Spire: The Board Game
9See it at Contention GamesPlayers: 1-4Age Range: 12+Play Time: 45 minutesArguably the video game most suited for a board game adaptation, Slay the Spire captures the essence of its digital counterpart by allowing players to choose a hero and embark on a Roguelike deck-building adventure up the Spire. The gameplay mirrors the video game, with players navigating through rooms that offer different challenges, such as fighting regular and elite enemies, encountering events, resting at campfires, collecting treasure, visiting the merchant, and ultimately facing the boss. The nature of Roguelikes ensures countless hours of replayability as players experiment with different characters, builds, and items.
You can read our detailed review of Slay the Spire: The Board Game for more insights.
Bloodborne
### Bloodborne: The Board Game
1See it at AmazonPlayers: 2-4Age Range: 14+Play Time: 60-90 minutesIn Bloodborne: The Board Game, players take on the role of a Hunter, battling to defeat the dark forces within Yharnam. As a campaign game, it offers endless replay value with its modular map tiles ensuring no two sessions are the same. With an abundance of cards, tokens, and game pieces, this game challenges players' skills and decision-making as they unravel the mystery of the plague and strive to stop it. The highly detailed miniatures enhance the immersive experience, making you feel truly part of the dark, gothic world.
Resident Evil 2
### Resident Evil 2: The Board Game
1See it at AmazonPlayers: 1-4Age Range: 12+Play Time: 90-120 minutesThe success of the Resident Evil 2 board game adaptation has led to similar experiences for other entries in the franchise, but Resident Evil 2 remains the standout. Staying true to the source material, players cooperate as either Leon S. Kennedy or Claire Redfield, navigating through scenarios to escape the zombie-infested environment. Gather weapons, healing items, and keys, solve puzzles, and evade the undead. The game even incorporates iconic elements like ink ribbons and typewriters, adding depth to your gaming sessions.
PAC-MAN
### Pac-Man: The Board Game
0See it at AmazonPlayers: 2-5Age Range: 10+Play Time: 30 minutesFrom Buffalo Games, this tabletop version of the arcade classic can be played cooperatively or competitively. As Pac-Man, players navigate the maze to eat pellets and collect fruit, while those controlling the ghosts try to catch or avoid Pac-Man. The game uses four metal tiles as the game board, requiring some initial setup but allowing for quick subsequent games. The electronic Pac-Man figure even emits the classic "waka waka" sound!
Tetris
### Tetris Board Game
1See it at AmazonPlayers: 2-4Age Range: 8+Play Time: 20-30 minutesAlso from Buffalo Games, the Tetris board game pits players against each other in a competitive match, where they rotate, maneuver, and drop tetriminos to score the highest. Just like the video game, the next piece is visible, allowing players to strategize their moves. Points are earned by completing lines, matching pieces to symbols, and achieving specific goals. The quick setup and short playtime make it ideal for parties and younger players.
Dark Souls: The Board Game - Tomb of Giants
### Dark Souls The Board Game: Tomb of Giants
1See it at AmazonPlayers: 1-3Age Range: 14+Play Time: 90-120 minutesOriginally planned as an expansion for the Dark Souls board game, the Tomb of Giants core set stands alone as a great introduction for new players. Inspired by the notorious location in the video games, players choose a class and gear, then navigate the catacombs, facing skeleton archers and resting at bonfires. With limited actions, strategic decision-making is crucial. The game remains faithful to the source material with its challenging combat and RPG elements, including a level-up system. It also introduces new characters and over a hundred new cards, all compatible with other Dark Souls board game products.
Cuphead: Fast-Rolling Dice Game
### Cuphead: Fast Rolling Dice Game
3$59.99 save 22%$46.88 at AmazonPlayers: 1-4Age Range: 8+Play Time: 30-45 minutesMirroring the fast-paced action of its digital version, Cuphead: Fast Rolling Dice Game is a cooperative experience where players use dice to defeat bosses. The boss deck's structure remains constant, making setup quick and easy. Players select from Cuphead, Mugman, Ms. Chalice, or Elder Kettle and engage in rounds divided into five phases, setting up attacks and confronting the boss. With timed rounds, strategic dice rolling is essential. The game offers high replay value, allowing players to improve their scores and upgrade abilities for future runs. Check out our review of Cuphead: Fast Rolling Dice Game for more details.
The Oregon Trail
### The Oregon Trail Card Game
0See it at AmazonPlayers: 2-6Age Range: 12+Play Time: 30-45 minutesThe Oregon Trail Card Game brings the classic game's humor and challenges to the table. Players cooperate to reach Oregon without succumbing to the numerous calamities along the way. The game is quick to set up and play, but be prepared for fast and sometimes harsh outcomes due to the luck-based Calamity cards. Winning requires playing fifty trail cards, but early deaths can sideline players for the session. Despite this, it's a faithful and entertaining recreation of the original, sure to bring laughs and excitement.