Who doesn’t love hanging out with friends and having some laughs over a fun board game? Board games can be a total blast for teenagers as well as adults, and in the last decade, tons of new games for teens have flooded the market. In this article, we will recommend the absolute best board games for the teenager in your life.
Best Board Games For Teens
Within this list of board games, there are a few card games that are ranked very high as the best games for teens. These games are Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, SKYJO, Never Have I Ever, and Apples to Apples Party Box.
Apples to Apples Party Box
The Apples to Apples Party Box is a game that can be enjoyed by preteens, teens, and even adults. In this game, players make funny combinations and comparisons and compete to see who can make the funniest and most outrageous statement. Think of it like a PG-rated Cards Against Humanity.
Finding a board game that can truly be enjoyed by both kids and their parents can be quite a challenge. Luckily, Apples to Apples is a reliable board game standby that is always good for several laughs. You may even be able to convince your teens to join you for a family game night when Apples to Apples is on the itinerary. For a classic party game that never gets old, give this one a try!
Never Have I Ever Family Edition
The Never Have I Ever Family Edition is a family-friendly version of a classic adult game. Now your teens and even younger children can have fun sharing stories about their crazy experiences. Players will be given outrageous questions to answer and will have to tell the truth about what things they have done.
Never Have I Ever can be played by up to 6 people, so it works for a small get-together or family night. Be prepared to be amazed at some of the wacky things people in your cohort have done, and get to know everyone a little better. For a fun and unique game related to real-life experiences, give this classic a try.
SKYJO
SKYJO is a fast-paced game that is easy to learn and never gets old. Teens love playing cards, especially on road trips or family vacations. The best thing about this card game is it requires almost zero equipment – just the cards themselves. It’s perfect for traveling or just a relaxed game night with friends.
There’s nothing worse than trying a new party game, only to discover that it has tons of convoluted rules and a zillion pieces to keep track of. Skyjo has none of that. It’s easy to pick up and is highly portable. If you have teens who travel for sports or competitions and need entertainment for those long bus rides, consider gifting them Skyjo. They will never be bored again!
Telepathy Head-to-Head Logic
Looking for a strategic game that really stretches the brain and requires logic and reasoning? Take a look at Telepathy Head-to-Head Logic. To play, players go head to head and compete using their brain power to try and outsmart their opponent.
Players will sharpen the skills of logic and working memory as they try to be the last one standing. The goal is to guess their opponent’s secret square by narrowing down the options. However, this will require a sharp memory and strong attention to detail. Stretch your teen’s deductive reasoning abilities with this exciting and original game.
Alien RPG Starter Set
If you are shopping for a teenager who enjoys immersive RPG experiences, consider purchasing the Alien RPG Starter Set. This is a great introduction to the Alien RPG universe and includes everything newbies will need to get started, including detailed explanations of the characters and premise.
This game is great for fans of the movie as well as anyone who enjoys escaping reality for an alternate universe. As your teen gains an understanding of the game, he may enjoy playing one of the many add-on kits that pick up where this game left off. Highly rated by board gamers everywhere, we think this starter set is a perfect gift for an RPG-loving teen.
Spy Alley
Looking for a game of intrigue and suspense that everyone can enjoy? Look no further than Spy Alley. This game is the winner of multiple awards, including the Mensa Award, for a reason: it delivers a mysteriously good time for players of all ages.
Spy Alley is simple to learn but difficult to master, and kids and families will enjoy playing it over and over again. For game players who enjoy using logic and critical thinking skills to solve puzzles and challenges, this will be an exciting game to conquer. Give the teens in your life an exciting board game experience with this game that the whole family can enjoy.
Pick Your Poison
Nothing breaks the ice and helps people get to know each other than a game like Pick Your Poison. Players in this game answer “Would you rather?” type questions to win, but will end up learning about each other and themselves during the process.
This game would be perfect as an ice breaker for an event such as a youth group or club meeting. Teens will have fun hearing the wide variety of choices and people’s reasoning behind the answers they choose. If you’re looking for a game that is fun while also thought-provoking, this one is a great selection.
Everdell
The Everdell is an immersive experience that takes players deep into the woods into the mythical land of Everdell. Players take on the roles of forest creatures looking to expand their world and create new civilizations in the forest. This is no easy feat, and this game takes concentration, focus, and a drive to succeed.
Everdell has won awards for its beautiful artwork and unique design. If you know a teen who would enjoy escaping our human world for the challenges of the forest, this game would make a great gift. For serious game playing teenagers, we highly recommend this game.
Disney Villainous
You’re never too old for Disney! If you have teens or preteens in the house that are still Disney fans, check out the Disney Villainous. Players choose a villain and try to solve clues to figure out the best way to play. With several favorite Disney villains to choose from, this game will never get old.
Parents and teens rave about the game’s clear instructions and objectives, so it won’t take you hours trying to figure it out. When you can’t take your teens on a trip to Disney World, do the next best thing. Gift them this wickedly awesome Disney board game and watch them dig deep into the mind of a true villain.
Phone Phever
Got a teen who is always glued to their phone. Consider gifting them the Phone Phever and make all that screen time a little more productive. In this game, players use their smartphones to answer a multitude of trivia questions on just about every subject imaginable, all while racing against their opponents.
Compatible with both Apple and Android Operating Systems, this game is not only fun but also educational. Your teens can actually learn something as they search for answers to the thought-provoking questions. Rather than everyone staring at their phones and ignoring each other, this game makes phone addiction an interactive and enjoyable experience. Give it a try for your next family game night!
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
Looking for a silly and simple card game for teens? Check out Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza. This game is fast-paced, easy to learn, and delightful. Players slap the pile of cards when they match with a word said aloud in order to win, but it’s harder than it looks. You will need fast reflexes and quick wit to succeed.
When you want a fun game experience but don’t want to drag out a board game with tons of pieces and complicated rules, this simple card game is the perfect solution. With no equipment besides the cards themselves, it can fit in a backpack or purse and be taken anywhere. It’s perfect for vacations or holidays, and playing will be a great bonding experience for family or friends.
Cage Match!
For MMA fans who also enjoy a good strategy board game, have a look at Cage Match!. Here players choose a distinguished mixed martial artist and compete against opponents using a combination of kicks, punches, and holds. This game involves strategy as players will need to put their knowledge of MMA moves to the test in order to win.
Cage Match is a fast-paced and quick game. It’s perfect for when you want to play a board game but don’t have much time. It would also be great fun to play on Fight Night as a warmup to the big fight. While this is a must-have for MMA fans, all board gamers will appreciate the strategy involved in this game.
The Quacks of Quedlinburg
The Quacks of Quedlinburg transports players to the imaginary world of Quedlinburg. Each player represents a doctor who must come up with a potion to cure an ailment. Players take turns concocting their brews, trying to add just the right amount of ingredients before the potion explodes.
This game is one of strategy and careful calculation. For teens who enjoy serious board games, this would be a lovely and exciting way to spend an afternoon or evening. Help your young person forget the worries of the modern world and become immersed in this imaginary land and the quest for the right brew.
With this set, you get a unique foldable tray to help keep track of all the pieces.
Guillotine
You don’t have to be a history buff to have a good time playing Guillotine, a silly card game set during the French Revolution. As players line up their character cards to meet their fate at the guillotine, they will need to use clever strategies to outwit their opponents in order to save their lives.
The wacky cast of characters includes everyone from the Archbishop to the piss boy to Marie Antoinette herself. Players will need to strategically make use of action cards in order to rearrange the line, make trades, and try to save themselves from death. This game is quick-witted and irreverent and can be enjoyed by adults as well as teens, making it a great family night game.
Deception: Murder in Hong Kong
Do you have a teenaged amateur detective on your hands? Let them sink their crime-solving teeth into Deception: Murder in Hong Kong. To win, players will need to root out the killer among them and sort through forensic evidence in order to solve the crime. All this is done while facing adversity and the clock to find the solution.
This game helps teens develop the skills of teamwork and collaboration as they hunt for the murderer. For teens who love true crime or whodunits, this game is a perfect opportunity to put their detection skills to the test. Everyone, teens and adults, can enjoy this suspenseful game of murder and intrigue in a foreign land.
Dungeons and Dragons Starter Set
Are you ready to introduce your teenager to the thrilling world of Role-Playing Games? Dungeons and Dragons Starter Set is the essential game set for RPG newbies ready to immerse themselves in a new world. This kit has everything beginners will need to get started, and it also explains the rules clearly and simply.
This game comes with 42 dice to get started with. Also included in the purchase are multiple materials to download that will help new players get started. This includes blank character sheets, paper characters, and much more. While starting a new RPG hobby like Dungeons and Dragons may seem intimidating at first, this beginner kit makes it a piece of cake, and your teen will be a dungeon master in no time.
Best Funny Games for Teens
The highest-rated funny games that require 4 or more players are Relative Insanity, Not Parent Approved, Kids Against Maturity, and What Do You Meme?. Exploding Kittens is a widely popular card game among teens in addition to the quick-hand game, Throw Throw Burrito.
Taboo Party Game
Who doesn’t love Taboo? The Taboo Party Game is a delightful, updated version of the classic party game many parents probably played as kids! Who can believe how much fun it is to guess categories without naming any of the “forbidden” words? Now your children can enjoy this hilarious game just as much as you once did.
To play, simply draw a card and flip the timer. Players must describe the card’s topic without saying any of the listed words. It’s harder than it sounds, and will really stretch your vocabulary and brainpower. For a good old-fashioned board game that teenagers will enjoy, you can’t go wrong with the classic Taboo!
What Do You Meme? Family Edition
If there’s one thing teens and pre-teens love, it’s pop culture memes. The What Do You Meme? Family Edition is a hilarious game where players combine funny captions with some of the top meme photos of the moment to see who can create the best meme. The wacky pictures and silly sentences will keep everyone on their toes as they try to out-meme the competition.
Players take turns being the judge to decide whose meme takes the cake. Parents will love this family-friendly game that is appropriate for all ages, and teens will love using the over 300 cards provided to make the best memes around. Careful – you may just end up going viral with some of these wild memes!
Kids Against Maturity
Kids Against Maturity is a fun card game modeled after the popular adult party game, Cards Against Humanity. However, this one is much more family-friendly. In this game, players make hilarious comparisons using the cards provided. Whoever makes the wildest and uproarious comparison wins the round.
Kids Against Humanity is the perfect game for the whole family to play, but teens will also enjoy playing with their friends. There’s nothing more wholesome than a game night loaded with silly games like this one. Pop some popcorn and bust out the case of soda – with this game you will have everything you need for an awesome gathering.
Double Ditto
The Double Ditto is an award-winning party game requiring quick wit and the ability to think on your feet. Kids and adults are going wild over this game. The whole family will love how easy it is to play – simply draw a card, and write down 2 related answers that you think the other players will also write down. This simple game can have unexpected results!
If you’re looking for a game for your teen that can also be played with adults or younger children and preteens, this one is a great selection. It’s good for game nights or family vacations, and it’s guaranteed to bring a lot of laughs. Reviewers praise its ability to get everyone laughing. Bring the whole family together with this easy, fun game!
Throw Throw Burrito
Throw Throw Burrito is a wacky blend of dodgeball and cards that will have everyone laughing. In this unique game, players try to match cards while dodging the flying burritos thrown by their opponents. This clever twist on a traditional card game is a good choice for kids and teens who are tired of the same old games and are looking for something new.
This game can be played with up to 6 players, so it’s great for a game night or party. Active teens will love how the game gets them up out of their seats as they throw, dodge, and duck to avoid being hit by a soft burrito. Everyone in the family can enjoy this exciting game, and we’re pretty sure Board Game Night will never be the same.
This game makes a perfect gift for 13-year-old boys or gift for 13-year-old girls. That seems to be the sweet spot where they are old enough to enjoy it without being too old (or cool) to play.
Exploding Kittens
The Exploding Kittens is a fun, fast-paced card game for kids, teens, and even adults. It’s a simple game to learn, without a lot of unnecessary rules and procedures, and it’s perfect for the whole family. The rules are simple: just draw cards. If you draw the Exploding Kitten card, you are out, unless you have a Defuse card with which to save yourself.
If you’re looking for an easy, quick card game to entertain your teens on a family vacation, game night, or even just a lazy Sunday around the house, Exploding Kittens provides lots of fun. This would also make a good birthday or Christmas gift for the teenager who loves silly games.
Not Parent Approved
The Not Parent Approved is a silly and enjoyable game for kids and teens to play on their own or with the family. This family-friendly game is appropriate for all ages but will be especially popular with teens and pre-teens. In the game, players make hilarious comparisons, similar to Cards Against Humanity, in order to see who can be the funniest.
Teens will love the silly, outlandish, and sometimes gross jokes that can be made with the over 450 cards included in this game. They will compete against their friends and family to see who can make the silliest statements. For this game, all you will need is a sense of humor and an open mind. So sit back and enjoy the hilarity!
Relative Insanity
Crazy family – we’ve all got ’em. The Relative Insanity helps you laugh about your relatives, the crazier the better! Made by comedian Jeff Foxworthy, this game is a hoot. Players begin their turn with a setup to a joke involving a crazy relative. The remaining players must compete to come up with the funniest punchline.
No holds are barred in this game about wacky families. As the box says, “You can pick your nose, but you can’t pick your family.” And while you may not be able to pick your family, you can at least have a good laugh at their expense. Make family holidays and game nights a little more exciting with this silly game.
Best Educational Games for Teens
For a quick-paced game, 5 Second Rule is a top-selling trivia game. …I should have known that! is also a fun trivia game packaged in a small box, making it easy to travel with.
…I should have known that!
People of all ages can enjoy and excel at trivia. The …I should have known that! is an exciting and challenging trivia game featuring questions from a wide variety of topics. Playing this game will push everyone’s recall abilities to the limit as they attempt to answer challenging questions about everything under the sun.
This trivia game makes a great gift for teenagers who like to read and have a lot of knowledge about pop culture and a variety of academic subjects. It would be good practice for future Teen Jeopardy contestants who want to sharpen their skills. Put your mind for minutiae to the test with this fast-paced trivia game.
Election Night!
What game could be more appropriate for an election year than Election Night!. This game is actually an educational game that teaches lessons on civics, government, and geography. But to teens, it is just a fun and timely game of strategy.
As players compete to try to win the most electoral votes to win the election, they will also be sharpening math skills and using logical reasoning. If you are looking for a way for your preteens and young teens to keep their math skills sharp during this year of remote learning, this game is a great option. It will also help young learners understand the nuances of the US election system. This game is an award-winning educational option for kids and teens.
5 Second Rule Game
The 5 Second Rule Game is a brain-twisting card game that will stretch players’ ability to think on their feet. To play, just draw a card that will give you a category. You then have 5 seconds to name three things that fall within that category. It’s even more challenging than it sounds, and this fast-paced game will put players’ wit and reflexes to the test.
The ability to think fast can help teens learn the art of public speaking, debate, and more. Plus it’s just fun to play! If you know some quick-witted teenagers who would love to stretch their brainpower, then the 5 Second Rule Game might be just what they need for a fun time.
Best Classic Games for Teens
Hands down, Catan is the most popular and widely-rated classic game for teens among those on this list. The second most popular classic game for teens is Risk. Both games typically require longer gameplay than an average board game.
The Game of Life
If you’re looking for an updated version of a classic board game, you don’t want to overlook The Game of Life. Now your teens and preteens can have as much fun as you did playing this game that takes players through the wild and crazy ride called Life. Graduate school, start a career and raise a family, all from the comfort of your couch.
One of the best features of The Game of Life is that it truly can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Kids as young as 8 can play and have fun, while teenagers and adults can also have a blast. This game is great for the whole family to enjoy and can be played over and over again. Get everyone on board for Family Game Night with this classic game!
Monopoly Game: Black Panther Edition
The Monopoly Game: Black Panther Edition is the perfect combination of a classic board game and a blockbuster hit movie. This edition features the same rules as the Monopoly we all know and love, with an exciting comic book/movie theme. True Black Panther fans will love the colors, locations, and characters right from the world of Wakanda.
This game also makes a great gift to honor the memory of the late Chadwick Boseman. A talented actor who was taken far too young, he brought the movie to life with his passion and delivery. Keep his memory alive by playing this board game version of an amazing story. Wakanda Forever!
RISK 60th Anniversary Edition
Scattergories
The game Scattergories is a long time favorite with so many different and inventive options. Teens will have to think outside the box if they want to best their friends and win the game. Speaking of friends, they can play with up to six people making this a great game for parties.
Gameplay is simple. Everyone gets the same list and someone rolls the dice to get a letter. Everyone then makes a word for everything on the list starting with that letter.
The trick is, no one can have the same answer! Be quick too as the game is on a timer and you need to finish the whole list with unique answers. Let the battle begin with this easy to learn game.
Catan
For serious board game fans, Catan is a must-have. Each player is in charge of their own civilization, and they must compete against other players trying to control the board. This game requires patience and determination to win.
The original Catan game is for 3 to 4 players. However, an expansion pack is available for purchase that will allow up to 6 players to enjoy the game at once. For teens who enjoy analyzing challenges and solving complex problems, Catan is an excellent introduction to the world of serious board games.
It would make a great gift for a mature teen. We love it as a present for a 16-year-old-boy or a gift for a 16-year-old girl.
Comparing the Best Board Games for Teens
The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed. The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with the product compared to others in the table.
How We Selected Board Games For Teens
Games the Whole Family Can Enjoy
Although you may love Family Game Night, finding games that your teens will enjoy may not always be easy. We searched carefully for games that will be fun to a variety of ages. From pre-teens to adults, we have included something for everyone on this list. Check out Never Have I Ever Family Edition, Taboo, and Apples to Apples, to name just a few.
Games to Keep Them Laughing
Help your teen embrace his or her goofy side with one of the silly games included on this list. We dare any teen to keep a straight face during a round of Kids Against Maturity or Exploding Kittens. For pop culture and meme lovers, don’t miss What Do You Meme? The real world is serious enough, so teens might as well have a fun escape. Check out one of our many laugh-inducing games that are guaranteed to be a good time.
Games that Require Deep Thinking
Who doesn’t love trivia? Put your future Jeopardy contestants to the tests with trivia games such as …I should have known that! Games that require players to think on their feet, such as 5 Second Rule, can also build brainpower in teens and young adults. Keep everyone on their toes with one of the brain-busting games on our list.
Award-Winning Games for Young Adults
If you are going to spend money on a game for your teenager, why not be certain it’s a good one? We made sure to include games that have garnered awards from parents as well as educational organizations such as Mensa. Among the games on our list are several recognized for promoting both academic and critical thinking skills. Feel confident in your purchase with one of our award-winning games.
FAQs – Board Games For Teens
What are good games for a young teen?
Check outThrow Throw Burrito, which is a one-of-a-kind game combining cards with a dodgeball. There’s also Villainous, a game about Disney villains, and Monopoly: Black Panther Edition for movie-obsessed teens. Depending on your young teen’s interests, there are many games that may appeal to him or her. Browse our list for more ideas!
What are some funny games for teens?
Laughter really is the best medicine, and teens love playing funny games with friends. You can’t go wrong with Taboo. Trying to hint at a word without using the most common descriptors can be surprisingly hilarious! What Do You Meme? a board game where players try to create the funniest meme, is another wild game that tends to elicit tons of laughs.
What is the best card game for teens?
There are many fun card games on the market, perfect for road trips, holidays, or vacations. We love Skyjo. It is fast-paced and easy to learn, and it doesn’t require a lot of equipment or prior knowledge. When you just need a good card game to pass the time, try one like this that is simple, logical, and very portable.
What is a classic board game that teens will enjoy?
We included many classic games on our list that are still popular today. You can never go wrong with timeless board games like The Game of Life, Taboo, or Apples to Apples. Sometimes games have stood the test of time for a reason, and we are pretty sure these games will never get old.
What are the best award-winning games for teenagers?
When you purchase an award-winning board game for your team, you can feel confident you are making a smart choice. We love Spy Alley, a family-friendly game recognized by Mensa. Other award-winning options are Everdell, an immersive forest game, and Election Night!, which has been praised for its educational qualities.
What is the best RPG for a teenager?
There are many fun RPGs to choose from, but we recommend starting with a classic. Check out the Dungeons & Dragons Starter Kit for a great introduction to the world of role-playing games. We like this starter kit because it’s made just for beginners and helps them feel confident diving into the world of D&D.
