Do you love the idea of sitting together as a family and playing a board game, but tend to find that the reality is quite different? Generally in our house, it all starts off great, but it’s never too long before it becomes obvious that someone is losing quite spectacularly and it all goes to pot.
Yes, frankly, the children (and spouse) should get used to losing, but also, it would be really nice to be able to just play together without the drama of winners or losers. So, here are a few ideas for board games that require cooperative teamwork – you all win, or nobody wins! Job done.
1.
SOS Dino
www.board-game.co.uk
A firm favourite in this house. Work together to help all four dinosaurs and dinosaur eggs escape extinction before the lava flows engulf them!
The instructions are quite extensive, but once you’ve had a good read of them the concept is simple enough for younger kids to play and engaging enough for adults too. It also takes just about the right length of time to keep everyone interested.
This is a Peaceable Kingdom game for younger kids, you’re probably looking at between the ages of about 3-7.
The idea is to get the owls to reach the nest before the sun comes up, so you’re all working together to get them to safety.
This one has great reviews from younger kids, but might not be what you’re after if you’re after a more complex game. It tends to take around 15 minutes to play.
3.
Pandemic
www.board-game.co.uk
Pandemic is aimed at slightly older children and adults, the recommendation is 8+.
Only through teamwork will you be able to stop the tide of infections and create the cure. Maybe a bit close to the bone maybe for those of us who aren’t quite over lockdown yet, but it’s a great way of developing game strategies.
Another game from Peaceable Kingdom (those guys know what they’re doing!), this one’s not quite so suitable for under 5s.
You work together to beat the evil wizard and create a magic potion, so it’s an inclusive game that encourages communication and strategic planning.
www.board-game.co.uk
Forbidden Island is a cooperative survival game and a long-standing favourite with families who include slightly older kids (probably 10 years plus).
Two to four players are hunting for treasure as the island they’re searching upon sinks around them! The rules don’t take too long to learn, and it tends to stay exciting right up until the end. Highly recommended.
6.
Outfoxed!
This is a cooperative whodunnit, for ages 5 upwards. A pot pie has gone missing, and you must gather clues and use the special evidence scanner to rule out culprits.
You’re basically working together to nab the fox. It’s enjoyable for the whole family and different every time you play.