It’s the festive season and therefore it is time to think about the perfect gifts for board game lovers in your life. For these friends and loved ones, there’s no better gift than adding a unique game to a cherished collection. Therefore, the My Kind of Meeple (MKoM) editorial staff chose the top 12 picks for Christmas gifts for board gamers in 2023.
This holiday, alloq the spirit of togetherness be enhanced by these carefully selected gifts, perfect for creating laughter-filled evenings and fostering creativity. Let’s explore these top gifts for board gamers to make this holiday season one to remember.
Methodology
When it comes to ranking our top picks for the Christmas & Holiday Wishlist, the methodology is both thorough and thoughtful. We started by considering a wide range of factors that contribute to the overall enjoyment and value of each game set. This includes:
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- The level of engagement and challenge on offer
- The games’ appeal to different age groups
- The uniqueness of their themes and designs.
Overview of Christmas Wishlist
| Game/Set Name | Ratings |
| Pigs on Trampolines | 4.5/5 |
| Agirlgle Retro Metal Chess | 4.5/5 |
| Exploding Kittens | 4.5/5 |
| Throw Throw Burrito | 4/5 |
| LEGO Star Wars New Republic E-wing | 4/5 |
| Disney Doorables Puffables Nightmare Before Christmas Set | 4/5 |
| Monopoly TMNT Edition | 4/5 |
| Uno Quatro | 3.5/5 |
| Grocery Go Karts | 3.5/5 |
| Star Wars: Rivals Expandable Game System | 3.5/5 |
| Twister Air | 3.5/5 |
| Bakugan Deluxe Training Set | 3.5/5 |
1. Pigs on Trampolines
MKoM Rating – 4.5/5
Pigs on Trampolines is an action-packed, dexterity-based board game that brings a unique and playful concept to the table. In this game, players use trampolines to bounce pig figures into a central pig pen, aiming to land them in a mud puddle.
Each successful landing in the puddle earns the player a mud pie. The game continues until all the mud pies are collected, and the player with the most mud pies wins, making them the muddiest piggy of all.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Simple Yet Challenging: The rules are straightforward, making it easy for players as young as six years old to join in. However, the challenge of accurately bouncing the pigs onto the target adds a layer of skill that keeps the game interesting for older players as well.
- Unique Theme and Design: The game’s unique theme of pigs bouncing on trampolines is not only amusing but also visually appealing. The colorful design and cute pig figures add to the game’s charm, making it an attractive addition to any game collection.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Fast-Paced Frantic Fun ✅ Durable Plastic Material ✅ Engaging for All Ages ✅ Easy Setup and Play ✅ Unique, Humorous Concept | ❌ Can Be Challenging ❌ Occasional Packaging Issues |
2. The Agirlgle Retro Metal Chess
MKoM Rating – 4.5/5
The Agirlgle Retro Metal Chess Set is a classic chess set with a unique twist. It features a folding wooden chess board and handmade standard pieces made of metal. The set is designed for both kids and adults, offering a traditional chess experience with an elegant and durable design. The chess pieces are made of chrome and gold, providing a special shine that lasts for years. The board is a beautiful brown color, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the set.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Premium Quality Materials: The combination of natural wood and metallic chess pieces ensures durability and longevity. This makes the Agirlgle chess set a long-lasting addition to any game collection.
- Practical Storage and Portability: The foldable design of the board makes it easy to store and transport. This feature is particularly useful for those who enjoy playing chess while traveling or wish to safely store the set when not in use.
- Thoughtful Gift Option: The Agirlgle Retro Metal Chess Set makes for a thoughtful and impressive gift for chess enthusiasts or anyone who appreciates classic games. It’s suitable for various occasions like birthdays, holidays, or anniversaries.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Unique Chrome and Gold Design ✅ Durable Wood and Metal Materials ✅ Foldable Board with Storage ✅ Weighted, Distinctive Pieces ✅ Decorative and Functional | ❌ Color Contrast Issues ❌ Board Quality Variances |
3. Exploding Kittens
MKoM Rating – 4.5/5
Exploding Kittens is a strategic, Russian roulette-style card game that has gained immense popularity. The game’s objective is to avoid drawing an Exploding Kitten card, which would eliminate the player from the game. Players use various types of cards to manipulate the game’s outcome, including Defuse cards to counteract Exploding Kittens, and other cards like Attack, Skip, See the Future, Favor, and Nope to influence gameplay. The game is designed for 2-5 players and is known for its unique blend of strategy and luck, along with humorous artwork by Matthew Inman of The Oatmeal.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Engaging Risk Management: This game is all about risk assessment and management. Players must constantly evaluate the danger of drawing an Exploding Kitten and use their cards to mitigate this risk. It’s a thrilling experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats.
- Creative and Humorous Artwork: The artwork is a standout feature. Each card is illustrated in a fun, whimsical style that adds to the game’s enjoyment. The humor in the artwork can be a conversation starter and adds a light-hearted element to game nights.
- Develops Strategic Thinking: Exploding Kittens is not just about luck; it requires strategic thinking and planning. Players must decide when to play their action cards for maximum effect, teaching and enhancing strategic skills.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Engages a Wide Age Range ✅ Easy to Learn, Fun to Play ✅ Durable Cardstock Material ✅ Unique, Humorous Strategy Game ✅ Ideal for Family and Friends | ❌ Some Card Quality Issues ❌ Humor May Not Suit Everyone |
4. Throw Throw Burrito
MKoM Rating – 4/5
Throw Throw Burrito is a unique party game that combines the excitement of a card game with the action of dodgeball. Players aim to collect matching sets of cards faster than their opponents while engaging in hilarious battles involving throwing squishy toy burritos.
The game is designed for 2-6 players, suitable for ages 7 and up, and offers a playtime of around 15 minutes. It includes a set of cards and two squishy foam burritos, along with tokens and a rule sheet.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Compact and Portable: The game’s components are easy to pack and transport, making it a great option for travel or bringing to different events. Its compact size means it can be played in various settings, from living rooms to outdoor gatherings.
- Family-Friendly Fun: With a recommended age of 7 and up, Throw Throw Burrito is a game that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It’s a great way to engage children and adults alike in a fun and active game.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Engaging for All Ages ✅ Unique Card-Dodgeball Fusion ✅ Soft, Safe Foam Burritos ✅ Promotes Physical Activity ✅ Great for Groups and Parties | ❌ Not Ideal for Small Spaces ❌ Slightly Complex Rules |
5. Lego Star Wars New Republic E-wing
MKoM Rating – 4.5/5
The LEGO Star Wars New Republic E-wing set is a part of the Star Wars: Ahsoka series. It is a LEGO set that includes over 1056 pieces. It features two ships – the New Republic E-wing and Shin Hati’s Starfighter – along with a small selection of characters from the series. The E-wing is reminiscent of the 75018 JEK-14’s Stealth Starfighter and includes a retractable landing gear and a pad-printed canopy.
The set also features a few stickers to enhance the finish, interesting assembly techniques, and removable Stud Shooters. Shin Hati’s Starfighter, on the other hand, is slightly larger in scale, with a pad-printed glass roof and spaces for storing accessories. The set includes minifigures of Baylan Skoll, Shin Hati, and Morgan Elsbeth, each with unique details and accessories.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Engaging Building Experience: With over a thousand pieces and intricate assembly techniques, especially in the E-wing’s nose construction, the set offers a satisfying and engaging building experience for LEGO enthusiasts.
- Playability Features: The retractable landing gear, removable Stud Shooters, and storage spaces for accessories in Shin Hati’s Starfighter add playability to the set, making it not just a display piece but also a toy that can be interacted with.
- Collectible Minifigures: The inclusion of key characters from the Star Wars: Ahsoka series, such as Baylan Skoll, Shin Hati, and Morgan Elsbeth, adds a collectible value to the set. The detailed execution of these minifigures enhances the overall appeal.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Detailed Starfighter Designs ✅ Five Star Wars Figures Included ✅ Engaging Building Experience ✅ Authentic Series Representation ✅ Ideal for Ahsoka Fans | ❌ Slightly Misrepresented Lightsabers ❌ High Price Point |
6. Doorables night before christmas set
MKoM Rating – 4.5/5
The Disney Doorables Puffables Nightmare Before Christmas set is a charming collection of plush toys inspired by Tim Burton’s iconic film. This set includes a mystery 10-inch squishable plush toy hidden inside a small 5-inch house, offering a delightful unboxing experience.
The potential characters include fan favorites like Jack Skellington, Sally, or Oogie Boogie. Each plushie stands approximately 10 inches tall and features the signature Doorables stylized detailing and sparkly glitter eyes.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Encourages Imaginative Play: These plushies can inspire imaginative play, allowing children to create their own stories and adventures with the characters. This can be beneficial for developing creativity and storytelling skills.
- Collectibility: With nine different Doorables Puffables in Series 4, including characters from other Disney movies, there is a strong appeal for collectors. Collecting the entire set can be a fun and rewarding experience for both children and adults.
- Gift Potential: These plushies make excellent gifts and party favors. Their appeal to Disney fans and collectors of all ages makes them a versatile choice for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Unique Glow-in-the-Dark Feature ✅ Rotatable Head for Mayor ✅ Detailed Stylized Design ✅ Perfect for Collecting and Trading ✅ Suitable for Wide Age Range | ❌ Occasional Quality Inconsistencies ❌ Some Missing Bonus Items |
7. Monopoly TMNT Edition
MKoM Rating – 4.5/5
Monopoly TMNT Edition is a delightful blend of the classic Monopoly game with the adventurous world of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. This edition is not just a mere rebranding of the traditional game; it’s a thoughtful integration of the TMNT universe into the Monopoly framework.
The game features exclusive tokens, including detailed metal figures of the Ninja Turtles, Splinter, and Shredder, adding a tangible connection to the TMNT world. The board itself is a vibrant depiction of the Turtles’ universe, with locations named after places in the recent cartoon series.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Exclusive TMNT Experience: The game offers an exclusive Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles experience. The unique tokens, such as the detailed Ninja Turtles figures, are not just playing pieces but collectibles in their own right. This makes the game a must-have for TMNT fans and collectors.
- Familiar Yet Fresh Gameplay: While retaining the core mechanics of classic Monopoly, this edition introduces fresh elements like ‘Turtle Power’ and ‘Mutagen’ cards, replacing the traditional ‘Chance’ and ‘Community Chest’ cards. This blend of familiarity and novelty ensures that both Monopoly enthusiasts and TMNT fans will find something to enjoy.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Iconic TMNT Metal Tokens ✅ Custom TMNT-Themed Game Board ✅ Ideal for TMNT Fans ✅ Fun for Family Game Night ✅ Engaging for All Ages | ❌ Generic Houses and Hotels ❌ Less Exciting Player Pieces |
8. Uno Quatro
MKoM Rating – 3.5/5
Uno Quatro is designed for 2-4 players. It includes a game board with a pull-out stand and rubber padding, 44 game tiles, and a carrying bag. The game involves sliding tiles into trays on the board, aiming to match four colors or numbers either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally to win. The game incorporates elements of the classic Uno, requiring tiles to match in color or number when placed adjacent to each other. Special action tiles like Swap, Push, and Minus 2 add strategic depth to the game.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Unique Blend of Uno and Board Game Mechanics: Uno Quatro combines the familiar matching mechanics of classic Uno with the physical, interactive nature of a board game. This blend offers a fresh gaming experience that is both familiar and novel.
- Physical Interaction: The physical aspect of sliding tiles into trays adds a tactile element to the gameplay. This can be more engaging for players who enjoy a hands-on experience compared to traditional card games.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Unique Strategy Gameplay ✅ Durable, Travel-Friendly Design ✅ Fun for All Ages ✅ Aids Colorblind Players ✅ Adds Unpredictability with Action Tiles | ❌ Potential Packaging Issues ❌ Initial Learning Curve for Rules |
9. Grocery Go Karts
MKoM Rating – 4.5/5
Grocery Go Karts is a children’s board game designed for 2-4 players, suitable for ages 4 and up. The game is a race to the checkout line in a supermarket setting. Players navigate wobbly kart movers around the game board, collecting plastic grocery items that match the color they land on.
The objective is to stack and connect groceries in the kart and be the first to hit the checkout with all items on their grocery list. The game includes 4 karts, 32 plastic grocery items, 4 grocery lists, 12 coupon cards, 1 die, and game rules.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Engaging Theme for Young Players: The supermarket theme is relatable and engaging for young children. It introduces them to a familiar setting in a playful and interactive way.
- Development of Fine Motor Skills: As players stack and balance groceries in their karts, they practice fine motor skills. This aspect of the game is beneficial for young children’s development.
- Teaches Basic Color Matching and Counting: The game involves matching grocery items to the color landed on and counting items to complete the grocery list. These activities are educational for young children, helping them learn basic colors and improve counting skills.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Fun and Interactive Gameplay ✅ Engaging for Younger Players ✅ Easy to Learn and Play ✅ Tactile and Collectible Components ✅ Perfect for Family Game Nights | ❌ May Lack Challenge for Older Players ❌ Occasional Missing Parts |
10. Star Wars Expandable Game System Premier Set
MKoM Rating – 4.5/5
Star Wars: Rivals is an expandable card game where players build squadrons from characters across different eras of the Star Wars universe. The Premier Set includes four characters (Luke Skywalker, Commander Cody, Darth Vader, Asajj Ventress), 14 action cards, 18 tokens and markers, 12 location cards, and a prism die. Each character has three unique action cards, and players use their characters to claim location cards. The game is designed for two players, aged 7 and up, and each game takes about 10-20 minutes. The game can be expanded with character booster packs, allowing for larger squadrons and more varied gameplay.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Expandable Content: The game’s expandable nature means players can continually add new characters and elements, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting. This feature provides long-term engagement and variety.
- Collectible Aspect: The inclusion of character figures and tokens adds a collectible aspect to the game. Fans of Star Wars and collectibles will find this appealing, as it allows them to acquire and showcase their favorite characters.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Fast-Paced Engaging Gameplay ✅ Exclusive Star Wars Characters ✅ Unique Custom Prism Die ✅ Expandable with Booster Packs ✅ Suitable for Young Players | ❌ May Lack Depth for Strategists ❌ Limited Challenge for Experienced Gamers |
11. Twister Air
MKoM Rating – 4.5/5
Twister Air is a modern twist on the classic game of Twister, designed for ages 8 and up. This game eliminates the traditional mat and instead uses a free app along with colored wrist and ankle bands. Players match their bands to the colored spots shown on the screen, which can be displayed on a smart device or cast to a TV. The game includes four wrist bands, four ankle bands, and a device stand. It offers different play modes, including solo, competitive, and cooperative, with full-body or arms-only options.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Innovative Use of Technology: Twister Air integrates physical activity with digital technology, offering a unique gaming experience. The use of an app to track movements brings a fresh dynamic to the classic game, making it more engaging and interactive.
- Versatile Play Options: With different modes like solo, competitive, and cooperative, along with the choice of full-body or arms-only play, Twister Air is adaptable to various settings and preferences. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of players and situations.
- Space-Efficient and Portable: Without the need for a physical mat, Twister Air is more space-efficient and portable. The game can be set up in smaller spaces, and the app and bands are easy to transport and set up anywhere.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Engaging Augmented Reality Play ✅ Physical and Digital Game Combination ✅ Easy-to-Use Wrist and Ankle Bands ✅ Fun for Family and Friends ✅ Innovative Twist on Classic Game | ❌ Calibration Can Be Tricky ❌ May Confuse Younger Players |
12. Bakugan Deluxe Training set
MKoM Rating – 4.5/5
The Bakugan Deluxe Training Set is an interactive game that combines physical play with strategic elements. The set includes components for a deluxe arena, 1 Special Attack Bakugan, 2 Clan Flags, 3 Sparring Totems, 1 Character Card, 1 Special Attack Card, 2 Gate Cards, 1 XL Ripcord, and 1 Bakugan Token.
Players use the Special Attack Bakugan, which launches off the XL ripcord and moves around the battle arena, interacting with obstacles like spinners and paddles. The game’s objective is to score points by launching the Bakugan and having it interact with various elements in the arena.
Why It Should Be in Your Wishlist:
- Dynamic and Engaging Gameplay: The Bakugan Deluxe Training Set offers a dynamic gameplay experience. The unpredictability of the Special Attack Bakugan’s movements creates excitement and engagement, keeping players intrigued and involved.
- Physical and Interactive Play: The physical nature of the game, involving launching and interacting with the Bakugan and arena, adds an interactive and tactile element to the gameplay, making it more engaging than traditional board games.
- Expandable and Customizable: The set can be expanded with additional Bakugan and accessories, allowing for customization and variety in gameplay. This expandability adds to the game’s replay value.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Enhances Strategic Gameplay ✅ Customizable Training Set ✅ Augmented Reality Experience ✅ Integrates with Other Sets ✅ Encourages Skill Development | ❌ Limited Standalone Play Value ❌ Best Enjoyed with Additional Sets |
Best Holiday Gifts for Board Gamers: Final Thoughts
Christmas, Hanukkah, the New Year, and the greater holiday season are times of joy, family gatherings, and of course, gift-giving. For those who cherish board games and toy/game sets, finding the perfect addition to a collection or a new game to play with loved ones is a delightful part of the season. Embrace the spirit of the season with our curated selections, and may your holidays be filled with the laughter and excitement of new adventures in gaming and building.
Suraj, your insight never ceases to amaze me! 💡 I vividly remember being stuck with an issue not unlike the one you’ve highlighted here. This brings me to ponder, what other nuances you foresee given this rapidly advancing finger-on-the-pulse technology? By any chance, can quantum computing be employed here? 👀 I’m eager to delve into discussions about different algorithms this technology can adopt. A fresh layer to pour thoughts onto wouldn’t be so bad, gang, what say? Passion — as raw as what I have for the subject is rarely seen. I was merely blessed to be part of an AI project during my Masters too. Your takeaway, Suraj, transpose these cryptic puzzles right back to reality and that’s a-something. Thoughts, peeps?