The Best Classic Board Games to Play in 2025

Board gaming thrives on the diversity of new games available today, offering a vast selection across genres like family games and strategy games. However, the allure of modern games doesn't diminish the value of classics. These timeless games have earned their place as favorites among both new and seasoned players due to their enduring appeal and engaging gameplay.

TL;DR: The Best Classic Board Games

### Azul Board Game

1See it at Amazon### Pandemic

0See it at Amazon### Ticket to Ride

0See it at Amazon### Catan

0See it at Amazon### Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective

0See it at Amazon### Can't Stop

0See it at Amazon### Acquire 60th Anniversary Edition

0See it at Amazon### Diplomacy

0See it at Amazon### Yahtzee

0See it at Amazon### Scrabble

0See it at Amazon### Othello

0See it at Amazon### Crokinole

0See it at Amazon### Liar's Dice

0See it at Amazon### Chess - Magnetic Set

0See it at Amazon### Playing Cards

0See it at Amazon### Go - Magnetic Board Game Set

0See it at Amazon

Modern board games have evolved significantly since the mid-90s, but the classics from earlier eras continue to captivate players. Here, we explore some of the best classic board games, presented in reverse chronological order, that have stood the test of time.

Azul (2017)

### Azul Board Game

1See it at Amazon

Azul, though released in 2017, has quickly become a modern classic. This abstract game stands out with its vibrant, chunky tiles and straightforward yet deep gameplay. Players draw matching tiles from pools and arrange them on their board, scoring points for completed rows and sets. Its deceptive simplicity belies the strategic depth and interaction it offers, making it a must-play.

For more insights, check out our in-depth review of Azul or explore its numerous expansions.

Pandemic (2008)

### Pandemic

0See it at Amazon

Pandemic revolutionized cooperative gaming, becoming a genre-defining hit. Players collaborate to save the world from spreading diseases, using clever mechanisms and accessible rules. The challenge lies in racing against time to find cures before outbreaks overwhelm the board. Its success has spawned numerous expansions and offshoots, enhancing its appeal.

Ticket to Ride (2004)

### Ticket to Ride

0See it at Amazon

Created by Alan R. Moon, Ticket to Ride blends Rummy-style card collection with strategic route-building. Players collect colored cards to claim train routes, connecting cities to fulfill ticket cards for points. The game's tight maps and competitive blocking make for thrilling gameplay. Its widespread popularity has led to various editions and expansions.

Settlers of Catan (1996)

### Catan

0See it at Amazon

Catan, formerly known as Settlers of Catan, sparked a revolution in board gaming. Its innovative blend of dice mechanics, trading, and route planning captivated players worldwide. Although its popularity has waned slightly, its historical significance and engaging mix of luck and strategy make it a timeless classic.

Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective (1981)

### Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective

0See it at Amazon

This unique game combines elements of a board game, mystery, and choose-your-own-adventure. Players explore Victorian London to solve cases, competing against Sherlock Holmes himself. Its atmospheric storytelling and challenging puzzles make it a compelling experience, with numerous expansion packs to extend the adventure.

Can't Stop (1980)

### Can't Stop

0See it at Amazon

Can't Stop, another Sid Sackson classic, offers fast-paced, exciting gameplay. Players race to the top of columns by rolling dice, balancing risk and reward. The game's tension and strategic depth make it a favorite, available both as a board game and a mobile app.

Acquire (1964)

### Acquire 60th Anniversary Edition

0See it at Amazon

Sid Sackson's Acquire is often credited with influencing modern gaming. Players build and invest in companies, navigating spatial and economic challenges. Its strategic depth and timeless appeal are highlighted in the 60th Anniversary Edition, which offers a fresh take on this classic.

For a detailed review, check out our coverage of the Acquire: 60th Anniversary Edition.

Diplomacy (1959)

### Diplomacy

0See it at Amazon

Diplomacy is renowned for testing friendships with its intense political gameplay. Set in 19th Century Europe, players must form alliances and strategize to conquer the continent. The game's simultaneous movement mechanic adds a layer of intrigue and betrayal, making it a unique and challenging experience.

Yahtzee (1956)

### Yahtzee

0See it at Amazon

Yahtzee, a pioneer of roll-and-write games, combines luck and strategy. Players roll dice and strategically fill in a scorecard, aiming to maximize their points. Its fast-paced and family-friendly nature ensures it remains a beloved classic.

Scrabble (1948)

### Scrabble

0See it at Amazon

Scrabble's blend of vocabulary and spatial strategy has made it a household name. Players form words from random letters, aiming to score high by using bonus spaces. Its widespread recognition and engaging gameplay keep it a favorite among word game enthusiasts.

Othello / Reversi (1883)

### Othello

0See it at Amazon

Othello, often mistaken for an ancient game, is actually more recent. Players place disks on a grid, flipping opponent's disks by surrounding them. Its simple rules and deep strategic play make it a compelling choice for abstract game lovers.

Crokinole (1876)

### Crokinole

0See it at Amazon

Crokinole, a Canadian dexterity game, challenges players to flick disks into scoring zones. Its tactile gameplay and strategic depth, combined with beautifully crafted boards, make it a unique and engaging classic.

Perudo / Liar's Dice (1800)

### Liar's Dice

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Liar's Dice, known under various names, involves bidding on hidden dice rolls. Players must bluff and strategize to outwit opponents, making it a game of tension and excitement. Its simple setup belies the depth of its gameplay.

Chess (16th Century)

### Chess - Magnetic Set

0See it at Amazon

Chess, with roots tracing back to 600 AD, is a globally recognized strategy game. Its evolution from Chaturanga in India to the modern game played today showcases its enduring appeal. With countless variations and sets available, chess remains a staple in any board game collection.

Playing Cards (~900 AD)

### Playing Cards

0See it at Amazon

Originating in China, playing cards offer endless gaming possibilities. From poker to bridge and beyond, these versatile cards can be used for a wide range of games. Their simplicity and strategic depth make them a timeless choice for gamers of all ages.

Go (~2200 BC)

### Go - Magnetic Board Game Set

0See it at Amazon

Go, a game of profound strategic depth, originated in China and is immensely popular in East Asia. Players place stones on a grid, aiming to control territory and capture opponent's stones. Its simple rules and complex strategies make it a game that can be enjoyed for a lifetime.

What makes a board game a “classic”?

The term "classic" is subjective, but key factors include sales, influence, and brand familiarity. Games like Ticket to Ride, with over 10 million copies sold, have achieved widespread popularity, transitioning from hobby to mainstream. Influence is seen in games like Acquire, which introduced innovative concepts decades before others. Brand familiarity is evident in games like chess, known worldwide, and Diplomacy, infamous for its impact on friendships. These elements together define what makes a board game a classic, celebrated for its enduring appeal and cultural impact.