10 Best Family Games 2026 in the United States

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.

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.

Ticket to Ride Board Game is a popular choice for family game nights. Suitable for ages 8 and up, it accommodates 2 to 5 players, making it versatile for different group sizes. With a playtime of 30 to 60 minutes, it strikes a good balance between being engaging yet not overly time-consuming, which is ideal for families with varying attention spans.

The game's complexity is moderate, ensuring it is accessible for younger players while still being challenging enough for adults. As a strategy game, it encourages players to think critically and plan ahead, fostering cognitive skills and strategic thinking. The competitive nature of the game provides a fun and dynamic experience, as players race to build train routes across iconic American cities.

Collecting train and ticket cards adds an additional layer of strategy, keeping the game exciting and replayable. On the downside, while the game is praised for its entertainment value, it may require some initial learning time for new players to grasp the rules. Additionally, the theme of building train routes may not appeal to everyone. The game is durable and well-made, ensuring it can withstand many rounds of play. In summary, Ticket to Ride is a highly enjoyable and educational game that is well-suited for families looking for a fun and strategic activity to share.