It’s hard to believe that we are already halfway through 2025. Time seems to fly faster with each passing year, and this summer is no exception. My eldest child is starting kindergarten this September, and my youngest will be turning two, milestones that make me reflect on how much life has changed and grown over the past six months. Despite the whirlwind of changes and opportunities, one thing that has remained a constant source of joy and stability for me is writing this blog. It’s been a grounding activity amidst the rapid pace of life and a wonderful way to share my experiences.
Thinking about the games I’ve played so far this year got me curious about which ones stood out the most. Interestingly, I realized I have only played ten games that were released in 2025. So, to get a better picture, I expanded my list to include all the new games I tried this year, regardless of their release date. Narrowing down this growing list to my top ten favorites was challenging, but after careful thought, I have my list ready. Here are the top ten new-to-me games from the first half of 2025.
10. Ascension: 10th Anniversary Edition
Starting with a game that surprisingly became a regular favorite at home, Ascension’s 10th Anniversary Edition caught me off guard with how much my wife and I enjoyed it. Despite being a decade old, this edition brought fresh energy to our game nights. The deck-building mechanic is simple but clever, providing a competitive yet friendly gaming experience where direct interference with your opponent is minimal. Sarah, my wife, has gotten good at it, developing new strategies every time we play. This game has easily been the most played one for us this year.
9. Dorfromantik: Sakura
I fell in love with the original Dorfromantik board game, so the announcement of the Sakura edition thrilled me. The Japanese countryside theme with its stunning artwork truly captures the delicate beauty of Sakura trees in spring. What makes this version stand out is the addition of new mechanics, such as unique task tiles and arch mechanics, that give the game a fresh feel while maintaining the peaceful vibe of the original. The way it combines beautiful visuals with engaging gameplay makes it a unique and delightful experience on the table.
8. The White Castle
Although I have only played The White Castle digitally, it left a strong impression. This dice-placement game offers deep strategic potential through a variety of choices each turn. Deciding where to place your dice involves weighing rewards like coins versus bonuses like the Lantern, which makes every decision tense and exciting. The gameplay encourages optimizing your moves and adapting your strategy as you play. I can’t wait to try the physical version someday, as the digital experience has already been very engaging.
7. Leviathan Wilds
Leviathan Wilds was an unexpected gem. Inspired by the video game Shadow of the Colossus, this cooperative game has players working together to climb and free corrupted leviathans. With 17 Leviathans to face and eight unique characters, the game offers rich content and replayability. The blend of hand management and battling giant bosses makes for thrilling sessions, and the detailed artwork and character design show the care that went into its creation. It felt like a love letter to the original video game, which made the experience even more special.
6. Super Boss Monster
Super Boss Monster combines nostalgic video game vibes with a refined card game design. Building on the earlier Boss Monster game, it fixes many of the rough edges and enhances the gameplay significantly. The new Town Board reduces randomness, and the addition of minion meeples adds a thematic touch that makes the game visually appealing. Integration with previous games and expansions in the series means the game grows with you, creating a mature and polished experience. The improvements made show the developers’ dedication to learning and evolving their games.
5. Wondrous Creatures
I have always enjoyed worker placement games, and Wondrous Creatures quickly earned a spot among my favorites in the genre. The artwork is fantastic, with each creature uniquely designed, bringing the game world to life. The clever twist of dual-location workers adds a fresh layer of strategy, while the solo mode offers rewarding challenges. The game also allows players to adjust the length and pace through unique end-game conditions, making it versatile for different groups. Despite minor production issues with my review copy, the overall design and creativity shine through.
4. ISS Vanguard
ISS Vanguard was a game I approached cautiously but ended up truly appreciating. The story-driven gameplay and cooperative mechanics create an immersive experience that gets even better when shared with friends. Although setup can be time-consuming, the depth and potential of the game are worth it. With over 20 hours of gameplay under my belt, I still feel there’s much left to discover. The game’s design allows new players to get involved quickly, making it accessible despite its complexity. It has proven to be a rewarding and engaging space exploration adventure.
3. Rebel Princess: Deluxe Edition
Rebel Princess was a big surprise and a favorite among my top picks. This three-player card game adds a refreshing “girl power” twist to the classic game of Hearts. The shifting rules and player powers keep every game dynamic and exciting. I love the thematic emphasis on strong princess characters, challenging traditional fairytale roles in a fun and unapologetic way. As a proud dad, I appreciate showing my daughters that they don’t need anyone else to be amazing because they already are. The game’s vibe feels like a lively and empowering girls’ sleepover party.
2. Mythwind
Sometimes, after a busy day, you just want a game that’s relaxing and gentle, and Mythwind fits that perfectly. The game offers a calm experience with no harsh competition, allowing you to enjoy growing your city and exploring a mysterious story at your own pace. The story is subtly woven into the gameplay, inviting players to engage as much or as little as they want. This open-ended approach can be polarizing, but for me, it’s been a wonderful way to unwind and enjoy quiet, thoughtful gameplay.
1. Slay the Spire: The Board Game
Slay the Spire is a perfect example of how a well-designed video game can successfully translate to the tabletop. This deck-building game captures the essence of the original almost perfectly, with slight adjustments to streamline play. It’s one of the most thrilling and satisfying games I’ve played this year. The balance between strategy, luck, and player choice creates an experience that feels fresh and exciting every time. Given how much I’ve enjoyed it so far, I wouldn’t be surprised if it remains at the top of my list as the year progresses.
The Rise of Strategy and Immersive Gameplay
In recent years, the board game world has seen a remarkable surge in innovative titles that blend strategic depth with immersive storytelling. Many games now offer players the chance to dive deep into tactical decision-making while also experiencing rich narratives or unique themes. This shift has attracted both casual players looking for fun and seasoned enthusiasts seeking complex gameplay. One notable trend is how deck-building mechanics continue to evolve, providing a satisfying balance of chance and player choice without overwhelming newcomers. Games with cooperative elements also stand out, encouraging teamwork and shared victories that foster social connections.
Many modern board games embrace elegant simplicity alongside depth. Players appreciate mechanics that are easy to learn but difficult to master, as this keeps sessions engaging over time. For instance, games that use dice-placement or worker-placement systems often add layers of strategy by forcing players to prioritize scarce resources and plan several moves. This combination of accessibility and complexity helps create memorable game nights where everyone feels involved and challenged.
Visuals and Theme Enhancing the Experience
A critical aspect of many successful board games is their strong thematic presence. Artistic design and thematic integration often work hand in hand to create an immersive atmosphere that pulls players into the game world. Whether it’s a tranquil Japanese countryside filled with blooming Sakura trees or the epic battles against towering mythical creatures, these visual and narrative elements enrich the gaming experience beyond just mechanics.
Games that incorporate beautiful artwork and thoughtful design tend to stand out in a crowded market. Players enjoy seeing detailed miniatures, carefully crafted tiles, and vibrant cards that make each session feel special. Moreover, themes that reflect popular culture or beloved video games help attract fans from other media, creating a bridge between different entertainment formats. The result is a diverse community of players eager to explore new worlds and stories through their tabletop adventures.
Cooperative Play and Social Interaction
Cooperative board games have grown significantly in popularity as players seek collaborative experiences rather than purely competitive ones. Working together to overcome challenges, strategize, and complete objectives can lead to stronger friendships and more inclusive gaming groups. These games often feature rich narratives that immerse players in a shared mission, whether it’s space exploration, fantasy battles, or city building.
The cooperative element also introduces unique challenges in game design, such as balancing difficulty and ensuring every player has meaningful choices. Successful cooperative games often include a variety of characters or roles, allowing players to specialize and complement each other’s abilities. This dynamic fosters communication and teamwork, making each play session a social event filled with excitement and suspense.
Innovation in Game Mechanics
Modern board games frequently experiment with fresh mechanics or put creative twists on classic systems. Deck-building, for example, remains a popular mechanic but is often combined with hand management, resource allocation, or tile placement to create complex strategies. Dice-placement games add a tactile element of chance while still rewarding thoughtful decision-making.
Additionally, games now offer variable player powers, modular boards, and multiple paths to victory, which increase replayability and strategic depth. The inclusion of solo modes is another growing trend, catering to players who prefer or need to play alone. These solo experiences often include unique challenges and narratives that keep the gameplay engaging and rewarding.
The Role of Storytelling and Narrative
Storytelling has become a key element in many of today’s top board games. Games that weave narrative threads into gameplay invite players to become part of an unfolding tale, making their choices feel more meaningful. Whether through scenario-driven campaigns or evolving game states that react to player decisions, narrative-driven games create emotional investment and lasting memories.
For example, space exploration games often feature story arcs that reveal new mysteries and challenges as players progress. Fantasy games might present quests and lore that deepen the sense of adventure. Even in more abstract or strategic games, thematic storytelling can provide context and motivation, elevating the overall experience beyond mere point scoring.
Expanding Accessibility and Inclusivity
The board gaming community has made significant strides toward accessibility and inclusivity. Many games now consider different player skill levels, offering adjustable difficulty or modular rules to accommodate newcomers and veterans alike. Designers are also mindful of themes and artwork that resonate with diverse audiences, helping to make board gaming a welcoming hobby for everyone.
Additionally, games that feature strong female characters, non-traditional roles, and themes challenging stereotypes are gaining praise for broadening the appeal of the hobby. This inclusivity enriches the community by inviting fresh perspectives and experiences, making the game table a place for everyone to enjoy.
Balancing Luck and Strategy
One of the enduring challenges in board game design is finding the right balance between luck and strategy. While some degree of randomness keeps games exciting and unpredictable, players often prefer it when their decisions have a meaningful impact on the outcome. The best modern games skillfully blend these elements, providing enough chance to keep every game different but enough control for skillful planning to shine.
Deck-building and dice-placement games exemplify this balance well. Players must adapt to the cards or dice they draw, but can shape their decks or placements through smart choices. This interplay creates tension and satisfaction, rewarding players who think ahead and react to changing circumstances.
Replayability and Longevity
Players increasingly look for games that offer long-term value through replayability. This can come from variable setups, multiple strategies, random elements, or branching storylines that make each playthrough unique. Games that support expansions or modular content also extend their life by introducing new challenges and mechanics.
Replayability is important not just for solo or casual players but also for groups that want fresh experiences without constantly buying new games. Well-designed games provide a variety of ways to play and win, keeping players engaged and returning for more sessions.
The Evolving World of Board Games
The modern board game landscape is rich and diverse, offering something for everyone, whether they prefer competitive clashes, cooperative storytelling, or relaxing city-building. The rise of innovative mechanics, immersive themes, and inclusive designs has broadened the appeal of board games worldwide. As players continue to seek meaningful social interactions and strategic challenges, the hobby is poised to grow even further.
By embracing creativity and community, today’s games provide memorable experiences that go beyond simple entertainment. They invite players to connect, explore new worlds, and test their skills in ways that keep the passion for tabletop gaming alive and thriving.
How Innovation is Shaping New Experiences
The future of board games looks bright and full of exciting possibilities as innovation continues to reshape the hobby. Designers are constantly exploring new ways to blend traditional mechanics with technology, storytelling, and social dynamics. This creative evolution is helping games appeal to broader audiences while keeping long-time fans engaged. One clear trend is the integration of digital components that enhance gameplay without overshadowing the tactile, face-to-face experience that makes board games special.
Technology is increasingly being used to streamline setup, track scores, or add dynamic elements that change as the game progresses. Apps that support games by handling complex calculations or random events allow players to focus more on strategy and interaction. Some games even incorporate augmented reality or companion apps that provide immersive storytelling and rich audiovisual content. These innovations help bridge the gap between physical and digital gaming, offering new ways to play while preserving the social aspects that define board gaming.
Expanding Themes and Diverse Storytelling
Emerging trends show a push toward more diverse and inclusive themes in board games. Creators are exploring stories and settings that reflect a wider range of cultures, experiences, and perspectives. This shift is making the hobby more welcoming and relevant to players worldwide. Games now feature narratives about underrepresented groups, historical events from various regions, and stories that challenge traditional norms.
This diversity in themes enhances the depth and appeal of games by allowing players to learn about different cultures and viewpoints while enjoying gameplay. It also provides fresh storytelling opportunities that keep the hobby vibrant and evolving. The ability to connect emotionally with a game’s theme often enhances player investment and enjoyment, making these titles particularly memorable.
The Growing Popularity of Solo Play
Solo board gaming is experiencing significant growth as more people look for ways to enjoy the hobby independently. Whether due to busy schedules, geographic isolation, or personal preference, solo modes are becoming a crucial feature in many new games. Designers are rising to the challenge by creating engaging solo experiences that offer meaningful decisions, strategic depth, and unique challenges.
The solo play trend also encourages replayability since solo players often seek games that change with each session or include variable objectives. These games provide a fulfilling experience that mirrors the tension and excitement of multiplayer sessions. As solo play continues to expand, more options will become available, allowing players to enjoy the hobby on their terms without missing out on the depth or fun of traditional group play.
Enhancing Social Connections Through Gameplay
Board games have long been valued for their ability to bring people together, and new trends continue to emphasize social connection as a key element. Cooperative games that encourage teamwork, communication, and shared problem-solving have become increasingly popular. These games promote positive interaction and create memorable experiences that strengthen bonds among players.
In addition to cooperation, some games experiment with social dynamics by introducing negotiation, alliances, or hidden roles. These elements spark lively discussions, bluffing, and strategic interaction that add excitement and unpredictability. As society places greater value on meaningful social experiences, board games are adapting to meet this desire, offering varied ways for players to connect, compete, and collaborate.
Sustainability and Ethical Production
With growing awareness of environmental issues, sustainability has become an important consideration in the production of board games. Many publishers are adopting eco-friendly practices by using recycled materials, reducing plastic components, and designing games with minimal packaging. This shift responds to consumer demand for products that align with responsible values and reduce environmental impact.
Sustainable production also includes considerations like fair labor practices and ethical sourcing of materials. As the industry grows, more companies are committed to transparency and accountability. Players increasingly support games that reflect their values, making sustainability a factor in purchasing decisions. This trend encourages the entire hobby to move toward more conscientious and thoughtful creation.
The Role of Community and Crowdfunding
Community involvement has become a driving force behind many board games in recent years. Crowdfunding platforms provide creators with the ability to connect directly with fans, gather feedback, and fund projects that might not fit traditional publishing models. This relationship benefits both developers and players by fostering creativity, innovation, and shared excitement.
Backers often receive exclusive content, early access, or special editions, deepening their connection to the games they support. Additionally, community forums and social media allow players to discuss strategies, share house rules, and organize events. This vibrant interaction strengthens the sense of belonging and keeps the hobby dynamic and inclusive.
Innovations in Game Design
Board game design continues to evolve, pushing boundaries and exploring new mechanics that surprise and delight players. Hybrid games that combine different genres, such as deck-building with role-playing elements or tile placement with story-driven campaigns, are gaining traction. This blending of mechanics creates fresh challenges and expands the ways players can engage with games.
Designers are also experimenting with asymmetric gameplay, where players have unique roles, abilities, or victory conditions. This asymmetry adds depth and variety, ensuring that no two players experience the game in the same way. Modular boards and scenarios allow for customizable experiences that keep gameplay unpredictable and exciting over multiple sessions.
Accessibility and Inclusivity in Design
Making games accessible to a wide range of players is an important focus moving forward. This includes considerations for physical accessibility, such as tactile components or simplified setups for players with disabilities. Clear iconography, straightforward rules, and varying levels of complexity help accommodate different skill levels and learning preferences.
Inclusivity also extends to narrative and character representation. Games that feature diverse characters and avoid stereotypes help players see themselves reflected in the stories they play. This fosters a welcoming environment that encourages people from all backgrounds to participate and enjoy the hobby.
The Importance of Replayability
Replayability remains a crucial factor in a game’s long-term success. Players want games that remain engaging and fresh even after multiple plays. Variable setups, random elements, branching storylines, and multiple strategies are all ways designers increase replay value. Games with expansions and modular components also benefit by continually offering new content and challenges.
Replayability encourages players to invest time and money in a game, confident that it will provide lasting enjoyment. It also supports community growth as players share experiences, strategies, and modifications that keep the game evolving beyond its original design.
The Blending of Video Games and Tabletop
The line between video games and board games continues to blur with the rise of hybrid experiences. Many tabletop games draw inspiration from video game mechanics, themes, or storytelling techniques, while some digital games incorporate physical elements. This crossover creates opportunities for innovative gameplay that appeals to fans of both formats.
Companion apps, digital scorekeeping, and online multiplayer platforms enhance traditional board games, allowing remote play and expanded accessibility. Virtual tabletops and streaming also contribute to the hobby’s growth by connecting players worldwide. This integration broadens the community and introduces new ways to experience classic and modern games alike.
Conclusion:
The future of board games promises a rich blend of innovation and tradition. As new technologies, themes, and design philosophies emerge, the core appeal of tabletop gaming — human connection, strategy, and storytelling — remains strong. Players and creators alike are embracing change while respecting the foundations that make the hobby enduring.
With continued focus on accessibility, inclusivity, sustainability, and community, board games are poised to reach new audiences and inspire fresh generations of players. The evolving landscape offers exciting opportunities for discovery, creativity, and fun. Whether through cooperative adventures, competitive duels, or solo journeys, board games will continue to captivate and bring people together for years to come.