Some say that board games have lost their touch, but I beg to differ.
While video games and the latest technology may dominate the gaming industry, some board games are the centerpiece of family Sunday evenings or lazy weekend afternoons with friends.
What’s even more exciting is when you get to experience the best of fantasy and board games together. Fantasy theme board games are popular among both children and adults. These games are packed with action and interesting characters, from majestic world-building to strategic resource management.
I have some of the best recommendations if you want to spruce up your weekend by playing a fun fantasy theme board game with your friends or family.
In this post, we’ll dive into some of the best fantasy board games that’ll make your weekend fun.
Introducing Fantasy Board Games
Board games that are built around a fictional world, characters, and story are usually known as fantasy games.
These games can include anything from witches, wizards, dragons, and goblins to trolls, warriors, ogres, and spirits.
Besides, magic and supernatural forms are integral elements of the fantasy game’s plot and setting. Think of your favorite fantasy book or movie. Fantasy board games have the same characteristics.
One of the prime benefits of playing fantasy board games is that they can foster the values of cooperation and camaraderie in the players. Unlike other genres, most fantasy games are cooperative, which means the players fight against a common evil to emerge victorious in the story.
The players work together to strategize, manage their resources, fight the enemy, and win the game – as a team.
Also read: Board Game Statistics You Never Knew
Alternatively, you can also play against your friends, and as you engage in a thrilling battle with your peers, you’ll enjoy the healthy competition that the games have paved the way for.
Whether playing against your friends or with them, you’ll love what fantasy games offer.
Now that we have a good idea about it, let’s jump into the list of the best fantasy board games you’ll love to play.
Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate
If you’re a fan of Dungeons and Dragons like me, there’s no way you should miss out on Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate. It’s based on the popular board game, Betrayal at House on the Hill.
In this modular hidden traitor game, you and your allies explore the iconic city of Baldur’s Gate and battle with deadly monsters like Mind Flayers and Beholders.
As you embark on a thrilling adventure, the evil elements of the city turn one or more of your allies against you. It could be the psionic blast of Mind Flayer or the whispers of a ghost – that’s for you to figure out before it’s too late.
This is one of the games where you’re supposed to keep your friends close but your enemies closer.
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Avalon Hill Betrayal at Baldur's Gate Board Game for 144 months to 9600 months |
$50.00 |
Buy on Amazon |
One of the many reasons you’d enjoy this game is that you’ll keep returning to the story, but the adventure will always be different (up to 50 scenarios).
It’s the brilliant characters, gripping storyline, and endless replayability factor that’ll have you and your friends hooked to the game for 60 minutes straight.
Seal your Sunday night with this chilling narrative board game.
➡️ Number of Players: 6
➡️ Minimum Age Recommendation: 12 and up
A Game of Thrones
A Song of Ice and Fire is a legendary fantasy book series written by George R. R. Martin. Due to the immense popularity of the books, the fantasy world was developed into a TV series and iconic board games.
If you want to explore and dominate the great houses of Westeros and explore the unpredictable alleys of Winterfell, King’s Landing, and the far-reaching Kingdoms of the Western continent, then A Game of Thrones is perfect for you. The game’s plot is pretty much similar to the books and shows.
The backdrop of the story starts with King Robert Baratheon being declared dead, and the great houses of Westeros have turned against each other to claim the Iron Throne. Can you take the reins of the entire continent and win the Game of Thrones? Each player can take control of one of the six houses of Westeros and indulge in fierce combat and battle of wits to secure dominance of the entire continent.
This board game tests your wits, diplomacy, strategic thinking, and clever play of cards. It’s up to you to claim the throne by wielding swords, smooth-talking your way in, or rallying the townsfolk to your side.
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A Game of Thrones Boardgame Second Edition |
$51.43 |
Buy on Amazon |
However you choose to play the game, I assure you you will not be able to get up from your seat until you have won the Iron Throne and declared yourself the ruler of all the six Kingdoms.
You’ll be enthralled while playing the game because of the intricate detailing. This is mainly captured in the vibrant board that represents the accurate map of Westeros. The cards and the tokens mention all the prominent characters and locations as well.
➡️ Number of Players: 3-6
➡️ Minimum Age Recommendation: 14 and up
Cartographers, A Roll Player Tale
Cartographers, A Roll Player Tale is a game where you have to put your map-drawing skills to the test. You’re not tested on how finer lines you can draw, but how strategically you can help Queen Gimnax reclaim the northern islands for the Kingdom of Nalos. You do this by capturing the lands she desires the most.
The more you’re able to meet her demands, the more your reputation will spike. Your opponents are the Dragul, who uses their outposts to contest your claim. In the game, you and your friends can compete with each other to earn the most reputation stars over the course of four seasons.
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Thunderworks Games - Cartographers: A Roll Player Tale | Award-Winning Game of Fantasy Map Drawing |... |
$21.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
In each season, you’ll get the queen’s edict, based on which you would have to draw on the map. By the end of the water, whoever has the most reputation stars, wins the game.
➡️ Number of Players: 1-100
➡️ Minimum Age Recommendation: 12 and up
Eagle Games Defenders of The Realm
Eagle Games Defenders of The Realm is a cooperative fantasy board game in which players fight orcs, dragons, demands, and the undead to protect the Monarch City.
The game tests your strategic thinking and ability to defend a whole realm from evil. It takes you on an epic fantasy adventure where you fight the darkness with your allies and emerge victorious.
The plot has been built around Monarch City, which faces the threat of an attack from four creature factions. You are a valiant hero summoned by the King and pleaded to defend the city before the creatures enter the city walls and destroy the Kingdom.
Each player is a champion chosen by the King to protect the city. You can choose from these defenders of the realm:
- Cleric
- Dwarf
- Eagle Rider
- Paladin
- Ranger
- Rogue
- Sorcerer
- Wizard
The board game is highly rated for its exquisite world, gruesome characters, and smart resource management. There are special abilities that the characters possess, and you embark upon adventures to defeat each enemy general, the dragon, the orc, the demon, and the undead.
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Eagle Games Defenders of The Realm | $199.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Due to the straightforward style of play, even beginners can get the hang of the game quickly. The replayability factor is also a prime reason to grab this game for a fun time.
➡️ Number of Players: 1-4
➡️ Minimum Age Recommendation: 12 and up
Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Begins
A vastly popular game that has dominated the fantasy board gaming industry for quite some time now, there’s no wonder Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Begins has found a way into the list.
If you’ve heard about the D&D franchise but don’t know where to start, I’d suggest this game. It’s an excellent way of introducing new players to the enthralling world of D&D.
As one of the 2-4 players of the game, you’d be exploring the lands of Neverwinter and fighting your way through the monsters to get the ultimate prize.
You can choose from any of the customizable heroes of the game and combat with the monsters to ultimately fight with the boss – whether it’s Felbris (Beholder), Deathsleep (Green Dragon), Orn (Fire Giant), or the Kraken. It’s your quick entry to the journey of Dungeons and Dragons and a chance to familiarise yourself with the iconic game.
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Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Begins, Cooperative Fantasy Board Game, Fast Entry to The World of D&D,... |
$35.98 |
Buy on Amazon |
Once you have played through the several variations of this adventure, you can give other D&D board games a shot if this tickles your fancy. Children love this game, and you’d know why once you play this game with your young ones on a bright Sunday afternoon.
➡️ Number of Players: 2-4
➡️ Minimum Age Recommendation: 10 and up
Legacy of Dragonholt
Legacy of Dragonholt is a mix of fantasy and murder mystery where you not only battle epic creatures and defeat an evil overlord but also investigate the death of the Dragonholt’s heir.
One of the main reasons board gamers like me got enticed to play this game is its blend of RPG elements, adventure, and open-world concepts. You build and customize your characters while plotting a new journey in its intuitive gameplay.
You can choose from any of the six humanoid races of Terrinoth, including humans, dwarves, elves, gnomes, catfolk, and orcs. After that, you define your physical attributes, personality traits, and personal history.
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Legacy of Dragonholt Roleplaying Game | Narrative Adventure Game | Cooperative Fantasy Game for... |
$53.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
All these elements make your character and your story unique, as each unique character approaches the obstacles in the game in their own way. So, take your time.
You can pick from six immersive questions that’ll have you in its grip once the journey begins, including ending the evil reign of a count who plots to usurp the rightful heir of Dragonholt.
➡️ Number of Players: 1-6
➡️ Minimum Age Recommendation: 14 and up
The Lord of the Rings Journeys in Middle-Earth
The Lord of the Rings is another fantasy franchise that has garnered a huge fanbase over the years. From books came the movies, and board games, giving you a chance to forge your own fellowship and embark on the adventure to fight the evil that threatens the land.
In The Lord of the Rings Journeys in Middle-Earth, you get to play as one of the iconic LOTR characters. Plan your strategy, hone your skills, and test your wisdom in combat to defeat evil and win the game.
The cooperative gameplay style makes each character unique, thanks to their special abilities. These abilities complement each other as they survive dangerous adventures, combat powerful enemies, discover lost treasure, and more.
This is your chance to immerse yourself into the world of John Ronald Reuel Tolkien and play various individual games as a part of a larger campaign, with some variations. So, you don’t feel like you’re returning to the same journey again and again.
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The Lord of the Rings Journeys in Middle-earth Board Game/ Strategy Game/ Adventure Game for Adults... |
$87.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
This game is compatible with their app that guides you through the looming forest, Middle-Earth’s ancient halls, and quiet clearing – while taking control of your foes. Rally ahead with your allies!
➡️ Number of Players: 1-5
➡️ Minimum Age Recommendation: 14 and up
War of The Ring
War of The Ring allows you to revel in the enthralling world of The Lord of the Rings, built by J.R.R. Tolkien.
In this board game, you command the mighty kingdoms of the Third Age. This includes the Horse-Lords Of Rohan, the Elven Lords Of Rivendell, and the Soldiers Of Gondor. You lead the defense of the remaining free realms of Middle-Earth.
You don’t have to be a LOTR fan to enjoy this game. The theme and design suit any fantasy fan who wants to try their hand at an epic board game.
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Fantasy Flight Games Ares Games War of The Ring 2nd Edition, Multi-Colored (AGS WOTR001), 2 to 4... | 1,043 Reviews |
$71.93 |
Buy on Amazon |
Even if you are a LOTR fan, don’t think you are restricted by the choices made by Tolkien’s heroes and villains. You can write your own story through your good, bad, terrible, and strategic decisions to win the game.
➡️ Number of Players: 2-4
➡️ Minimum Age Recommendation: 13 and up
Warhammer Quest: Blackstone Fortress
Warhammer Quest: Blackstone Fortress is a cooperative board game where you and your peers band together to explore a labyrinthine yet intriguing space station. By working together, you balance your skills and strengths to survive the challenges.
The adventure will have you unfold the guarded secrets of the Blackstone Fortress, including its prized treasure, while you go on to discover powerful “Archeotech.”
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Games Workshop Warhammer Quest: Blackstone Fortress | 391 Reviews |
$198.00 |
Buy on Amazon |
You can play the game alone or with up to 4 friends, with a 5th one controlling the hostiles.
➡️ Number of Players: 1-4
➡️ Minimum Age Recommendation: 14 and up
IELLO: Welcome to The Dungeon
If you want to have a quick crawl through the dungeon, IELLO: Welcome to The Dungeon is perfect for you. It’s a push-your-luck game designed for 2-4 players where you take turns to venture into the dungeon with minimal equipment and resources.
The players are given cards and are played in rounds. You can win or lose the game by winning or losing 2 rounds. In the box, you get 13 monster cards, 28 tiles, 4 player aids, and 8 success cards, along with a rulebook explaining how to use the cards to progress in the game.
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IELLO: Welcome to The Dungeon, Push-Your-Luck Elements, Disappearing Equipment, Strategy Board Game,... |
$12.71 |
Buy on Amazon |
This is a good place to start if you’re a sucker for strategy and role-playing games. You’ll love the game’s vibrant artwork and cartoon style, which shows how attentive to detail the developer was.
➡️ Number of Players: 2-4
➡️ Minimum Age Recommendation: 10 and up
Closing Thoughts
Fantasy board games are not only intricately beautiful but also put your brain cells to the test while placing you and your friends against or with each other.
Whether you want to band together against evil monsters or fight against each other to claim the throne, these games are perfect for healthy competition or cooperation with your friends, whichever you choose.
Next, check out these puzzle board games for a challenging and engaging time.
