For the past nine months, games have been at centerstage for my family as the most fun way to pass the time.
Scrabble, Uno, and the occasional puzzle have always been mainstays.
And, as “pandemic-season” has dragged on, Rummikub has had a resurgence and some rounds have gone on for hours.
Time flies when you are having fun!
The most recent addition to our game shelf has been a fancy new chess/checkers board inspired by Netflix’s hit series, The Queens Gambit.
Every time I move my rook down that board, I imagine the neuropathways I am creating due to learning something new. So fun and so relaxing.
Anyway, I figured since you were going to be hanging around the home for a bit longer too, you might be looking to add a new game or two to add to your collection or to give as a gift.
These are The Best Games of 2020.
Psych!
Not all great games are played on boards. In fact, this one requires nothing but your smartphone. Psych is the brainchild of Ellen Degeneres, who knows how to get a crowd giggling. The best part about this virtual good time is you don’t have to be in the same room to play. It’s fun and laughing is guaranteed.
Actually Curious
This right here is the perfect game to build connections through meaningful questions. Actually Curious actually captures the essence of what everyone is seeking right now…a little human connection. Try it. It’s lovely.
Rummikub
Rummikub is, by far, my favorite game on this list. It’s like the card game called Rummy, but with tiles, and even if you don’t know how to play that game, you can learn quickly and become addicted, like me!
Derby Day
Let’s go to the races right in the comfort of your own home! The Derby Day Horse Racing Game is almost as good as the real thing… if you play with real money anyway. Roll the dice and try and get your horse to the finish first to win! This one is great and kids of all ages can join in on the fun.
Clue
This ‘who done it’ board game is a classic and one that I enjoyed playing very much as a kid. It is your job to find the murderer. If you can name them, their weapon, and the room they did it in you will be crowned the champion sleuth.
Chess & Checkers
These two games are games of strategy and the fun that can be had on this board is endless. If you have never played chess, download the app Chess.com for some lessons and play every day. You might be surprised once you get the lay of the land if you haven’t already. I enjoy the calming effects of these two games.
Puzzle
Did you know puzzles are both good for your brain and also relaxing? There is no better way to pass all of this time at home than with a puzzle. Find a spot you can spread out for a bit and, if you are lacking in space, grab this puzzle mat and let your body and brain enjoy the healthful benefits of a jigsaw puzzle.
Scrabble
This game is an oldie but a goodie. You know the drill. Use your tiles to spell words. The person with the most points wins and might have the biggest brain. Scrabble is like chess for wordsmiths. So fun!
Darts
There are speakeasies and bar-ages popping up all over the country, thanks to pandemic restrictions forcing people to get creative with their outdoor living spaces. Darts are the obvious addition to any COVID home expansion.
Exploding Kittens
I have never played Exploding Kittens before, but see it every time I walk into our local game shop in town. I’m intrigued. According to CNN, “It is like UNO, except there are goats, magical enchiladas and kittens that can kill you.” Game on!
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