The Best Games for Game Night

One of our favorite things to do at home is game night, even if it's just me and Juan. We don't go out much to stay on budget, and board games are a great way to have fun without spending way more than we planned on food and drinks (not to mention a babysitter). Here are my favorite board games that don't require a lot of familiarity, expertise, or sobriety to have fun.

My all-time favorite game is Ticket to Ride. There are lots of different versions (Europe, North America, Asia, the UK, Nordic countries, Germany, India...), so take your pick! We like Europe, whereas my friends in Germany like North America (of course). It's such a thrill to finish your train routes, or to build the longest track in the game. It only takes a couple of games to feel like you've got the hang of it.

Carcasonne is a really great game for guests who've never played any of your games. It's super easy to learn, and it's even easy to play while carrying on a conversation. Juan teases me that I always ask to play this game, but I do because sipping your drink won't put you at a disadvantage. ;) You don't have to pay super close attention to the other players' moves. It's all-around enjoyable and non-competitive.

Ligretto: don't be scared, it includes directions in English (and just about every other European language). This is a fast-paced card game that is easy to learn and surprisingly addictive. The game is usually over in just a few minutes, so you just play as many rounds as you'd like. Each box accommodates up to four players. You can buy the set in more than one color (red, green, or blue) to accommodate up to 12 players, and games with more players end even more quickly.

What are your favorite games, and what do you like about them? I'd love to hear!

P.S. Don't forget a card shuffler (this one, or a smaller option). They are loud and will startle your babies and pets, so be careful. Now you know how dorky we really are. :)

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