Board games have been around for a while, and they are a great way to get people to spend time together, and depending on the game, a way for kids to learn things. As a mom of four sons, I have spent many hours playing board games, and here is a list of the top 5 classic board games I think everyone should check out.
1. Monopoly is always one of the first classic board games that comes to mind when someone mentions it. Although it now has many versions, from your favorite baseball team to movies such as the Lord of the Rings, you just can’t beat the classic edition. The excitement of building up your “real estate” and getting that “get out of jail free” card have been in families for a very long time now. This is a great game for ages 7 and up, and for those of you with younger children they do offer a “junior” version which is also a lot of fun. You can find Monopoly at just about any toy store, Walmart and if you are looking for a deal, check out your local thrift stores or some yard sales, and you’ll more than likely find one in good condition.
2. My second choice would have to be the classic Clue. Although they have recently come out with a version with a dvd included, I would rather stick with the original. Here you get caught up in the “who did it?” and “with what weapon?”. Was it with the revolver in the library? The list can go on and on. This is a fun game for 3-6 players from ages 8 and up.
3. Life is another great classic board game to check out! Here you start out with a decision do you just pick an occupation or do you go to college? The games cute little pieces include a car for you to take your journey on,and little blue and pink pieces to represent yourself, your future spouse and children you will gather on the way. Watch out, you could get twins SEVERAL times! Many different variations have been made about this game throughout the years, so you can find several editions available in toy stores,or if you’re looking for a special edition,make sure to look online. Amazon and EBAY are great places to find the game at a really great price. This game is for two to six players,ages 9 to adult.
4. I cannot picture board games without thinking of the classic children’s board game, Candy Land. This is a great starter board game for children to play with their parents. It teaches them to count as well as colors. The characters are timeless and the bright colors really engage the children. The have several editions of this one too, including a “Dora” Candyland game if your kids are interested in that t.v. show. This game is great for pre-schoolers as you don’t have to know how to read yet. You can find this game at almost all toy stores,Walmart, Kmart and as well as online for fairly cheap. It’s for two to four players and you can start them “playing” fairly young. They start to understand the game more though when they hit the age of three.
5. Lastly, for classic board games, I would have to pick Trivial Pursuit. Great for adults or if you have kids ages 9 and up, this game is great for fun and learning things. It really gets you thinking as you answer questions relating to people,Arts and Entertainment, History,Science and Nature, Sports and Leisure and Wild Card categories. There are many editions of this game including a 25th Anniversary Edition, Trivial Pursuit Greatest Hits Edition, The Genus Edition and my all-time favorite 90’s Edition. You can find the original editions online, at most toy stores,as well as the newer editions. This is for 2-6 players so it’s a great game to play with other couples as well.
