10 Best Family Games 2026 in the United States

Ticket to Ride (2025 Refresh) by Asmodee is a family-friendly board game that fits well for players aged 8 and above. It supports 2 to 5 players, making it flexible for small groups or larger family gatherings. With a typical game lasting between 30 to 60 minutes, it’s long enough to engage players without becoming too time-consuming. The game’s rules are simple to grasp, which is great for kids and beginners, yet it offers strategic depth that keeps more experienced players interested. This balance makes it appealing for both casual and competitive play. Its theme of building train routes across early 20th century North America adds an adventurous and educational element, introducing players to geography and planning skills. The colorful giant map and miniature train pieces enhance the visual experience, making it more immersive.

One of its highlights is the multiple strategies you can use to win, which helps maintain replay value and keeps the game fresh over time. On the downside, while the age recommendation starts at 8, younger children might find some strategy aspects challenging without adult help. Also, those looking for very quick games or more physically active play might find it a bit slower-paced. Ticket to Ride is a well-designed, engaging strategy game that encourages family interaction and learning, ideal for those who enjoy board games that combine luck and planning.

The CATAN Board Game is a fantastic family game suitable for ages 10 and up, making it a great choice for both kids and adults. Designed for 3-4 players, it typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes to play, which is a good length for keeping everyone engaged without feeling rushed. One of its major strengths is that it promotes strategic thinking and resource management, encouraging players to gather and trade various resources like ore, brick, and lumber to build settlements and cities.

The game's dynamic gameplay, where dice rolling determines resource collection, adds an element of luck and strategy, making each session feel unique and competitive.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The complexity may be a hurdle for younger players or those not accustomed to strategy games, which might lead to frustration if they don't grasp the mechanics quickly. Additionally, the game is best enjoyed with a full player count of 3 to 4; playing with just 2 players can alter the dynamics and might not be as enjoyable. CATAN offers a rich strategic experience that can enhance family game nights and foster learning through gameplay. Just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve, especially for younger players, and consider the player count for the best experience.

Herd Mentality is a party game designed for family and friends, suitable for ages 10 and up. It stands out for its ability to accommodate a large group, from 4 to 20 players, making it perfect for gatherings. The game's setup and rules are simple, allowing players to jump in quickly, which is great for spontaneous game nights.

It boasts a high replayability factor with 20 extra questions included, keeping the sessions fresh and engaging. The core gameplay involves guessing what others are thinking and aligning your answers with the majority, which can be both hilarious and strategic. However, the game might not offer much educational value, as it focuses more on fun and social interaction rather than skill-building or learning.

Additionally, while the game is easy to learn, it may not appeal to those seeking more complex gameplay or strategic depth. Finally, being highly dependent on group dynamics, its enjoyment factor can vary based on the players' willingness to engage. Given its strengths in simplicity, scalability, and fun, Herd Mentality is ideal for casual family game nights and social gatherings.