
5 Things: Board Games That Are Fun for the Whole Family — Really!
In Medscape's "5 Things" series, enthusiasm is contagious. Here, physicians share the handful of fascinations that they can't get enough of. From classic novels to overseas adventures to the cutthroat world of family board games, get ready to find your next obsession. Have a "5 Things" of your own? Email us to share.
As an internist turned full-time digital creator and entrepreneur (I'm the founder of SoMeDocs, which helps health experts stand out in the digital space), finding time to unplug and spend time with the family can be a challenge, especially after this past year and a half. For my family, game night quickly turned from a one-off attempt to pass yet another evening cooped up indoors to a staple in our weekly routine. It's as integral as pizza delivery and the sweet, sweet scent of victory. Here are five board games that are getting us through the pandemic.
5 Things: Board Games That Are Fun for the Whole Family — Really!
Though we won't be taking a family vacation for a while (for obvious reasons), Trekking the World lets us explore everywhere from the peak of Mount Fuji to the ruins of ancient Greece, all from the safety of our living room.
Though it's a bit complicated to learn, as it's a mix of several games in one, the accomplishment of gathering international relics and points while "jet setting" across the globe is totally worth it. The best part? Each destination is real, and you — and your kids! — get to learn cool facts while indulging in some healthy competition.
5 Things: Board Games That Are Fun for the Whole Family — Really!
Godzilla, who? In this card/dice game, players emulate monsters, mutants, and giant robots (oh my!) while attempting to take over Tokyo. Similar to Dungeons & Dragons, players roll dice to establish characteristics of their chaos-causing creatures, dole out damage and, of course, conquer Tokyo. The flashy graphics and socially appropriate outlet for destruction make it a hit with the kids.
5 Things: Board Games That Are Fun for the Whole Family — Really!
This game isn't for the faint of heart. And I'm not referring to actual heart conditions here — even if my husband is a cardiologist, and some of you may be, too — but to those of you who get a little ruffled by anything too silly.
This is a simple card game filled with quirky graphics (including but not limited to goats, enchiladas, and special-ops bunnies), where each player lays down a card until someone draws an exploding kitten card and dies — and, more important, gets booted from the game. In the interim, you laugh at the absurdity of the content and images. It's a purr-fect game if you enjoy laughing. (And who doesn't?)
5 Things: Board Games That Are Fun for the Whole Family — Really!
How could I not include this? A classic from the olden days but still a fun one to keep around. Plus, how fitting! We're all in the health field — though hopefully not in need of any operations.
5 Things: Board Games That Are Fun for the Whole Family — Really!
Werewolf is a cryptid take on the whodunit mystery. It's like the party game Mafia, just furrier. After gathering their pack, each player is randomly and anonymously assigned a character card that possesses specific traits and maneuvers that can be used to trip up opponents.
You must defend yourself against your peers and argue that you're not the big bad werewolf, even if you are. Wit and a healthy dose of lying are required. Naturally, at the end of each round, the werewolf gets run out of town via torches and pitchforks.
This game is super-fun and teaches valuable skills in strategy, communication, and deceit.
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