Let’s be honest, there’s only so much time you can spend in front of the television without getting bored, or exhausted from all that viewing. Besides, we’re sure you’ve consumed almost all there is on OTT platforms. So what else can you do to stay engaged during this crucial time of social distancing? Why, it’s gathering around a coffee table, yelling, screaming, and most probably arguing over whose turn it is to roll the dice. And no, this is so much more than Ludo.
That’s right, board games are the way to go, and we’re not going to lie to you, it’s a whole lot of competitive fun, and maybe a little bending those rules. But all’s fair in love and war, isn’t it? Let the games begin!
Codenames
Whether you’re playing with family or friends, the rules are simple: you split up into two teams to track down secret agents based on special code words. This is a great game for family game night, especially if you want to keep your teenaged kids engaged. If you have younger children, you can always opt for the child-friendly version, Disney Codenames.
Clue
Wannabe detectives come alive. Now’s your chance to prove your mettle and those unparalleled deductive skills. This classic board game is a cult favourite. All you have to do is try to be the first player to figure out which of the game's characters committed a murder, in which room was the crime committed, and what was the murderer’s weapon of choice! Any Sherlocks in the house?
Monopoly
What’s a board game night without the (in)famous game, that in all honesty, stirs up a great deal of emotions? If you’ve ever played Monopoly, you know you have to play to win! Besides, we may not all be real estate moguls, but with this board game, we can all turn into rich landlords. What’s not to love? In fact, there’s a lesson to be learnt—strategic planning and money management!
Sequence
If you like strategy games, this one’s a must-try. Sequence combines cards and strategy to create a game that’s fun for the whole family. In fact, your children (seven and older), can play too! The rules are simple: players place chips on the board as they play cards from their hands. The aim is to make five in a row. What’s more, you can even play against yourself. And you can’t go wrong with that!
Spontuneous – The Song Game
If you’re musically-inclined, don’t give this a miss. Besides, if you’re one for Antakshari (where you spontaneously break into song with the last vowel/consonant), you’ll love this. The rules are fairly simple and grab the attention of even the most sceptical of players. Participants have to write down several trigger words on their hit list. When it's their turn to play, they simply announce a word from their list and flip the timer. The first player to sing at least five words from any song containing the trigger word gets to advance on the board. But of course, players need to stay alert for those musical challenges scattered across the board.