There’s no better time to gather family and friends (and even strangers) around the table for a session of puzzle-solving, boardgames, and interactive fun that’s guaranteed to spark roaring laughs and (hopefully) amicable rivalry. From house parties, family time, or even cosy nights in, there is always room for a game or few – here’s our top picks for the best of the boardgames and beyond to see you into 2025:
Dobble (starting from £9.99)
This hilariously fast-paced gem is perfect for any party, in a game of quick reflexes and sharp eyes. Players must race to spot the one matching symbol between two cards, sparking frantic fun and plenty of laughs. With its simple rules and rounds lasting just minutes, Dobble is an instant crowd-pleaser for all ages.
It also comes in numerous variants – from editions dedicated to everything from Harry Potter to your favourite football team, and even waterproof editions for bathtime or summertime by the pool, it really is one for all year round.
Hitster (starting from £22.99)
The ultimate party game for music lovers, Hitster blends nostalgia and competitive fun for the perfect sing-along evening. Players take turns guessing the release years of hit songs while creating a timeline that doubles up as the evening’s hit-filled playlist. We’re talking Queen and Britney to Madonna and Stevie Wonder. Its setup is easy and its energy infectious. All you need is a surface, a smartphone to play the tracks, and some eager friends – singing ability not mandatory!
Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game (Gateway starting from £21.99)
This Ravensberger favourite invites players of all ages to step into the magical world of Disney, where strategy and imagination come together in an enchanting battle of wits. Players take on the roles of Illumineers, summoning beloved Disney characters to explore quests and outplay their opponents, in an adventure that is light-hearted yet packed with depth. The Gateway is the perfect introduction to the game, with everything you need included in the box to dive straight into the first quest – no prior knowledge or play needed.
13 Beavers (starting from £20)
Inspired by the classic ‘higher-or-lower’ concept, this fast-paced board game has players (or beavers) embarking on a perilous journey through an obstacle-filled river to reach Beaver Paradise. Along the way, they can build dams, brave the rapids, and face off against wolves, lava, and fishing lakes—ensuring no two games are ever the same. With a perfect mix of luck and strategy, this light-hearted adventure features stunning graphics and exciting twists, making it a game that’s guaranteed to entertain the whole family.
Sounds Fishy (starting from £19.99)
One for those who want to exercise their poker face, Sounds Fishy is a hilarious bluffing game that’s perfect for party fun. Players try to guess whether their opponents are telling the truth or bluffing about the fishy facts they’re sharing, all while trying to stay one step ahead. Between silly scenarios and teasing trivia, it’s a great choice for a high energy vibe to keep the laughs going all night.
Kids v Grown-Ups (starting from £12)
This quiz card game pits the younger generation against the older, in a battle of knowledge that evens the playing field. Covering topics like movies, music, science, and more, there are 200 questions appropriate for each age group that tests the kids’ wisdom and pushes the adults’ limits in a competition that proves once and for all, who truly knows it all!
Star Wars Puzzle – BB8 (starting from £17.99)
For a quieter activity that will thrill puzzle-lovers and Star Wars enthusiasts alike, the BB8 Star Wars 3D puzzle takes fans on a 99-piece adventure that leaves its makers with a smile, and a displayable collectors’ model for the shelf. Its detail and quality is notable, with Easyclick technology that helps the pieces slot seamlessly together to produce a sturdy, flawless finished piece. If BB8 isn’t your thing, Grogu offers a more approachable mission, while Death Star presents a 540-piece challenge not for the faint hearted!
