With the holidays just around the corner, it's time to pack your best board games. You know, the ones that you and your friends can play together. Whether it's anecdotes, actions or brawlers, there is something for everyone.
The choices can be pretty huge, so we've put together a list of the must-have board games to add to your collection. Grab the snacks, pour in the eggnog (or something stronger, if they're adults), and the party begins!
The best party video games
Killer Queen Black (Nintendo Switch, PC)
A few years ago, the hit The Killer Queen hit the arcades, becoming a cult favorite with many. Now that same game has come home; and despite some minor changes it is still a must see. The game offers you three ways to win with your team: with a military victory over the queen of the opposing team, with an investment type victory by collecting berries and keeping them in a table or by passing a snail on a line arrival.
Each requires a bit of strategy, but it is fairly easy to learn. And the game supports eight players once the option is unlocked, making it an absolutely must-have game with your friends and family.
Les jeux Jackbox Party Pack (Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC, Nintendo Switch)
Originally known for its radical You Don't Know Jack trivia games, Jackbox Games has evolved with greater variety thanks to its Jackbox Party Pack compilations. Each offers fun games with cell phones or tablets, which are easily connected through the company's website. In addition, each collection is different from the previous one. The latest version, Jackbox Party Pack 6, is packed with lots of laughs with games like Trivia Murder Party 2, Dictionarium, and more. Check out our review to find out more about what's in store with this bundle - and then get the others for your collection.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Nintendo Switch)
Do we recommend a fighting game for your next meeting? Yes, yes we are. But Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is one of the best on the market, with several players able to take their chances and win the fight. Additionally, the game features a host of exciting characters, ranging from its default hero roster to the most recent added via DLC, like Banjo Kazooie and Terry Bogard. And with multiple modes and rules to choose from, you can customize your battles however you want, for newcomers and pros alike. Now go up and slam your loved ones (In-game, please - we can't explain this clearly enough, In-Game).
Overcooked! 2 (PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC)
Hold on - Competitive Cooking Game? Yes, believe it, because Overcooked! 2 is a dish well done for all involved. This allows up to four people to take part in a cooperative cooking madness, trying to prepare their favorite dishes as quickly as possible. But as you can guess, making a gourmet dish is easier said than done. Surprisingly addicting and a real pleasure to play, Overcooked! 2 stuff yourself with match-ups while you wait for the turkey this holiday season.
Rocket League (Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC)
After years of becoming a big favorite in the esports scene, we've learned that Rocket League is just as fun to play against other players in the local arena. With split-screen support, the game is filled with contest-themed appeal, as you try to score goals with any vehicle of your choice while keeping the other team's shots at bay. Rocket League never gets old, and the add-on content, including the already released Radical Summer Pack, is sure to keep you busy as the Christmas holidays arrive.
Guacamelée! 2 (Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC)
Suppose you want to enjoy a cooperative brawler with a fantastic art style and lots of places to explore and cause trouble. Well, Drinkbox Studios' Guacamelée! 2 will certainly do the trick. You play as a luchador wrestler - and his friends - who take on evil opponents, while finding secrets and tackling difficult levels. With fantastic gameplay, art style that lights up the room, and two player co-op support, it's a joy to live in for you and your friends. (Rayman Legends works just as well and supports up to four players locally!)
Towerfall Ascension (PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC)
Is Super Smash Bros. too complicated for some players? Prefer something a little simpler, but just as competitive? Welcome to Towerfall Ascension. In this game, up to four players take part in battles with bows and arrows. It sounds confusing, but the matches themselves are very exciting, especially when you land lucky shots on unsuspecting opponents and win the match as a result. It takes a bit of practice, but you and your friends shouldn't have a hard time becoming Towerfall fans for the holidays!
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo Switch)
Last but not least, it may be a few years old, but Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is still the most complete - and well-designed - kart racing game on Nintendo Switch. With its wide variety of tracks and modes, it's a pleasure to play on a local four-player split screen. Besides, the graphics are still beautiful after all this time. and the controls cannot be beaten despite so many runners trying to do so. It's an instant classic that's well worth a few spins once Christmas (or whatever you're celebrating) begins.
