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12 Most Engaging 6-Player Board Games for

Kids and Adults

Joseph Prunty, Research Writer Ryan Stephens, Expert Consultant Last updated: Jan 11, 2021 !"#

22 Models
Considered 66 Hours of
Research 6 Experts
Interviewed 130 Reviews
Analyzed

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I
n this age of virtual gaming, are board games still relevant? Absolutely. Board
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games are extremely fun and engaging. If you are looking for a group activity, Games for Hours of Fun!
then six is the perfect number of players. Most of these games can also be
played by two or three people, but it is great to always have an opportunity to
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expand if more people would like to join. Games — Find Your Ideal
One!

We scoured the market for the best 6-player board games that you can play as a group, and there are so
7 Entertaining 2-Player
many things to consider before you make your pick. The genre and the plot of the board game will Board Games for Thrilling
determine the gameplay and its duration. The recommended age is also an important concern because Duels and Co-operations

everyone in your group should be comfortable during the game. Make sure that you buy a game that
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allows for the participation of the number of players in your group. to Enjoy One Of the
Oldest Board Games In
the World

Quick Summary 6 Best Deduction Board

Games — Your Most
Thrilling Investigation
! Editor’s Choice: Catan
"A famous strategy game with plenty of rewards and new graphics. Available with the 5–6-player extension.
60–120-minute gameplay time. 10+ recommended age."
Best Value: Codenames
Navigation
!

"An excellent game for a party which would be a good icebreaker. Social word game with cards. For 2 to 8+ players.
10+ recommended age."
Quick Summary
! Best Fantasy Board Game: A Game of Thrones Boardgame Second Edition
Top Picks Analysis
"A game based on George Martin’s series of fantasy novels, which allows you to experience Westeros. For 3 to 6 players.
3-hour gameplay time. 14+ recommended age." Things to Сonsider
! Best Magical Quest Game: Talisman
Features to consider when choosing a
"An adventure game with a classic roll-and-move gameplay and extensive fantasy storyline. For 2 to 6 players. board game for six people
12+ recommended age. 90–120-minute gameplay time."
The plot
! Best for Kids: Ravensburger Disney Villainous Genre
"A unique strategy game where you can embody one of 6 iconic Disney villains. For 2 to 6 players.
Recommended age
10+ recommended age. 50-minute gameplay time."
Number of players
! Best for Friends Fans: Monopoly: Friends The TV Series Edition Gameplay time
"A unique commerce game for FRIENDS fans with new tokens and board setup. For 2 to 6 players.
What’s included
8+ recommended age. Excellent attention to detail."
! The Most Comprehensive: Twilight Imperium FAQ
"A fantasy flight strategy game sporting grand storytelling with a unique gameplay every time. For 3 to 6 players. Which board game is the quickest to play?
8+ recommended age. 4–8-hour gameplay time." What is the longest board game to play?
! Best Horror Game: Betrayal At House On The Hill Which board game allows for multiple
"A cooperative strategy game in a horror genre with 50 blood-curdling scenarios. For 3 to 6 players. replays?
12+ recommended age. 60-minute gameplay time." Should I buy extras and extensions for my
board game?
! Best Party Game: The UpsideDownChallenge Game
"A challenging game that appeals to people of all ages and is great for parties. For 2 to 6 players. 8+ recommended age. Our Verdict
Simple but fun."
! Best Investigation Game: Mysterium
"A cooperative board game with an innovative murder mystery idea and a stunning design. For 2 to 7 players.
10+ recommended age. 45-minute gameplay time."
! Best Classic Strategy: 7 Wonders
"A strategy game with quick round and easy-to-understand rules that leaves you ruling your own city. For 3 to 7 players.
10+ recommended age. 30-minute gameplay time."
! Best Quick Game: King of Tokyo
"A strategy game that offers exciting but effortless experience, especially for kids and teenagers. For 2 to 6 players.
8+ recommended age. 30-minute gameplay time."

Top 12 Six-Player Board Games Review 2021

1. Catan – Editor’s Choice

FEATURES

! Genre: strategy
9.9
! Number of players: 4–6
! Recommended age: 10+
! Gameplay time: 60–120 minutes

More features: “Game of the Year,” “Hall of

Fame,” and even “Game of the Century”
honors; new graphics, board and cards

Check price

Catan is one of the most popular six-player strategy board games ever. This multiplayer game
assigns the roles of different settlers to the players, who then have to trade resources and build their
own holdings. As their settlement grows bigger, the players gain more points. The game is
representative of the island, Catan. If you have the base game already, you can directly get the
Catan: 5–6-player extension to make sure that you can play the game in a group. Multiple players
will be able to explore the uncharted Catan simultaneously. You will be able to add 11 new territory
tiles to the board to accommodate all the new civilizations. Expanding the island will give you so
many opportunities for growth. The extension comes with all the extra components you might need.

What we liked: This is a much-needed expansion to a universally loved game. The newly added
components allow multiple people to join the game without ruining the gameplay in any way.

What could be better: You cannot play the game without extension. You will have to purchase the
base game if you do not already have it.

2. Codenames – Best Value

FEATURES

! Genre: social word game

9.8
! Number of players: 2–8+
! Recommended age: 10+
! Gameplay time: 15 minutes

More features: 265 cards, card stand, and

timer

Check price

Codenames is a game that combines wordplay with strategy. If you want a game that is more than
just trivia, this is one of the best six or more player board games for you.

The players are divided into groups, and then one player from each group has to help the other
members identify particular words through clues. The person has to come up with single-word clues
so that their teammates can choose the cards with the correct words laid out in a grid with the rest.
The clues can be anything as long as they relate to the chosen word in some way or the other. Giving
any extra hints is not acceptable at all. If you want to be witty, then you can spend time thinking
about innovative clues so that the players have an excellent time working out the details.

What we liked: This is a perfect party game as it can accommodate multiple players. Players can
brainstorm together and use the game as a bonding activity.

What could be better: The game can become repetitive after a while if players do not enjoy the
process of cracking the correct answers with the clues.

3. A Game of Thrones Boardgame Second Edition – Best Fantasy Board Game

FEATURES

! Genre: strategy
9.7
! Number of players: 3–6
! Recommended age: 14+
! Gameplay time: 3 hours

More features: based on George R.R.

Martin’s fantasy novels; streamlined
rulebook and updated art

Check price

George R. R. Martin’s series of fantasy novels titled The Song of Ice and Fire has garnered a lot of
love and acclaim across the world. It is no surprise that the books are also making their impact on
the board game universe. Based on the books, A Game of Thrones: The Board Game will allow you to
experience Westeros on your own terms. Gather your group of GoT fans and get ready to wage war
as you fight for the Iron Throne after the death of Robert Baratheon. This is a game of diplomacy
with a killer instinct. You will play as one of the six houses of Westeros. Make alliances but also be
prepared to let them go. In order to assert dominance, you will have to exert your power to coerce
and deceive your opponents. The artwork and components of the game stay true to the source, and
you will feel as if you are in 2D Westeros with your favorite characters.

What we liked: All of us have wanted to visit Westeros when reading Martin’s books and this game
brings the world to life. There are many different components of the game that contribute to
realistic gameplay that leaves some room for strategy. This has to be one of the best 5–6 player
board games.

What could be better: GoT fans are the ones who will appreciate this game the most. The game is
too theme-specific for universal appeal.

4. Talisman – Best Magical Quest Game

FEATURES

! Genre: fantasy adventure

9.5
! Number of players: 2–6
! Recommended age: 12+
! Gameplay time: 90–120 minutes

More features: 2009 Ludoteca Ideale

Official Selection Winner; classic roll-and-
move game

Check price

Medieval fantasies are always intriguing and hence a lot of fun in board games. The world of
Talisman will lead you on a magical quest and the end is unpredictable. This roll-and-move fantasy
action game offers you 14 character options. Whether you want to be a warrior, a wizard, or a
priestess or someone else, Talisman will offer you many opportunities to establish your superiority.
You will have to engage in battles with other players and gain more power along the way. Your goal
will be to reach the Valley of Fire through the magical lands so you can secure the Crown of
Command once more. However, you should not think that the journey will be easy. To begin with,
you will have to obtain a Talisman by defeating the guardians so that you can gain entry through the
Portal of Power. From then on, you will face monsters and enemies at every turn.

What we liked: One of the best six-player fantasy board games, Talisman has all the elements that
make fantasy so riveting. Face challenges and be a hero in your quest so that you get a sense of
accomplishment.

What could be better: The replay value of this game is pretty high for the first 5–6 times, but starts
dwindling from then on if you continue playing with the same group of people.

5. Ravensburger Disney Villainous – Best for Kids

FEATURES

! Genre: strategy
9.4
! Number of players: 2–6
! Recommended age: 10+
! Gameplay time: 50 minutes

More features: 2019 TOTY Game of The

Year Award Winner; 6 iconic Disney villains

Check price

Disney fans will enjoy this board game immensely. A unique take on Disney stories, Villainous
focuses on tactics and skill. You have to sharpen your backstabbing skills because you might have to
be treacherous to the other players in order to win. The game involves villains from old and new
Disney movies. You will have to become one of the villains and pave the way for your victory. Each
character has a unique pursuit. For example, Jafar wants to secure the lamp while Ursula has to get
Triton’s trident. Moreover, all the villains have powers inspired by their film personalities. You have
to use these kills to deceive the other players and ruin their plans. You can use Disney heroes to
make things difficult for the other villains.

What we liked: This game will test your intellectual abilities. If you want to win, you have to come up
with sharp strategies. You will get to experience the nostalgia of your favorite Disney characters at
the same time.

What could be better: Not everyone is comfortable with the idea of being treacherous and devious.
The game also has a sharp learning curve.

6. Monopoly: Friends The TV Series Edition – Best for Friends Fans

FEATURES

! Genre: commerce
9.2
! Number of players: 2–6
! Recommended age: 8+
! Gameplay time: 60+ minutes

More features: iconic character tokens

inspired by Friends TV series

Check price

Let’s get it straight. If you are a FRIENDS fan, you will want everything in your life to have some
connection with the show. Monopoly lovers will love this FRIENDS edition of the game that offers
new tokens and a completely new board setup. Not only is this new set refreshing, but it is also fairly
nostalgic for anybody who has grown up with the show. Featuring iconic phrases, hilarious moments,
and numerous other references to the show, this board game allows you to sell, trade, and create the
perfect economic scheme. The tokens included in the set pay tribute to the show, with each
representing an iconic symbol. The cards under Chance and the Community Chest have been
renamed to refer to their apartments.

What we liked: This is the perfect gift for people who love FRIENDS. The attention to detail is truly
praiseworthy. One has to appreciate how closely FRIENDS has been incorporated in every element
of the game.

What could be better: If you like FRIENDS but dislike Monopoly, this board game is not for you.
While the design is based on the show, there is no difference in the gameplay.

7. Twilight Imperium – The Most Comprehensive

FEATURES

! Genre: fantasy flight strategy

9.1
! Number of players: 3–6
! Recommended age: 14+
! Gameplay time: 4–8 hours

More features: a massive game featuring

over 1,000 components

Check price

When it comes to storytelling, few board games have been able to do better than Twilight Imperium.
This is a game where you push the limits and come up with innovative strategies. As a player, you will
be put in charge of one of the 17 factions that are fighting amongst themselves to establish the
ultimate intergalactic domination. Since all the factions have different gameplays, you will have a
new experience every time you play. You have to be politically devious and economically cautious as
you try to take your factions forward. The board is made with 51 galaxy tiles that stand for planets
and supernovas at the start of the game. You will have to emerge victorious in the war and trade
negotiations so that nobody else can conquer your factions. The strategy cards are distributed every
round. Once you win 10 victory points, you will become the ruler.

What we liked: If you want an immediate gaming experience through a board game, you must play
this. Created with tremendous attention to detail, this game can keep a group engaged for hours.

What could be better: Some players might find this game too complicated. You have to wade
through tons of instructions to lay the foundation for a good time.

8. Betrayal At House On The Hill – Best Horror Game

FEATURES

! Genre: cooperative strategy

9.0
! Number of players: 3–6
! Recommended age: 12+
! Gameplay time: 60 minutes

More features: Origins Awards Gamers’

Choice Award Winner; 50 blood-curdling
scenarios

Check price

If you love the horror genre, you will love Betrayal at House on the Hill which is among the best six
player co-op board games. The gameplay is filled with tension, and you will be completely immersed
in it. You will have to play the role of a horror trope figurine as all the players wander about in a
mansion. You will get to see the rooms one by one. Your fate in the house is not going to be pleasant
because there are many horror scenarios that you might have to face. The players lay down one tile
at a time as they go from one room to the other, and this journey will lead to horrifying and creepy
omens. After you find a certain number of omens, you will have to face a horror scenario laced with
violence and savagery.

What we liked: There are many terrifying situations that you may have to face in the game, and it
gets really tense at times. There is something new to discover at every corner, and players have to
work together.

What could be better: This game is specifically targeted towards adults because children can find it
too gory at times. Its emphasis on pure horror might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

9. The UpsideDownChallenge Game – Best Party Game

FEATURES

! Genre: party
8.9
! Number of players: 2–6
! Recommended age: 8+
! Gameplay time: not specified

More features: includes one pair of upside-

down glasses, 25 challenge cards, and 5
“Make your own challenge” cards

Check price

If you have been in the hunt for a party game that appeals to people of all ages, then this game is the
one you need to bring home. One of the best six player party board games, the
UpsideDownChallenge game is designed to keep everyone entertained for hours. You will have a
great time with everyone laughing and enjoying around you. All you need to do is wear specialized
goggles that flip your vision upside down. As a result, you will find it difficult to even do regular tasks,
and that is why the game is so exhilarating. You will have to face a series of simple challenges while
wearing the goggles and the results will be hilarious. This is an interactive game that will help
everyone bond with each other in a large group setting.

What we liked: With this challenge, you will get a view of the world upside down and that is a mind-
boggling experience. It is funny how difficult simple tasks become when your eyes are confused.

What could be better: While this game can be super fun in a group, it might not be the best choice
for an adult-only group repeatedly.

10. Mysterium – Best Investigation Game

FEATURES

! Genre: cooperative
8.8
! Number of players: 2–7
! Recommended age: 10+
! Gameplay time: 45 minutes

More features: investigation game

Check price

If you are looking for a mystery board game, then you might find Mysterium to be the perfect game
for you. Crack a case set in an ancient mansion but do not take it lightly as the process will not be
easy. One of the players in your group will be the one to die, and they will have to contribute to the
solution of the murder. As a player, you can choose to be the ghost, or you can be a psychic who
wants to solve the case. The player who dies can communicate with the rest only through visions,
which are in the form of cards with stunning artwork. These cards tend to be vague, and the psychics
in the group have to interpret them.

What we liked: The game has beautiful artwork, and you will appreciate it if you love visually
appealing games. It is gripping because the psychics have to work within a fixed period to find the
killer.

What could be better: There is a chance that players who do not like murder mysteries could get
bored of the game after a few rounds. You might need a few extensions to increase gameplay
options.

11. 7 Wonders – Best Classic Strategy

FEATURES

! Genre: strategy
8.7
! Number of players: 3–7
! Recommended age: 10+
! Gameplay time: 30 minutes
 More features: quick games with plenty of
possible scenarios

Check price

If you have ever dreamt of being an excellent leader, then you will truly appreciate the powers
bestowed on you by 7 Wonders. You will have the responsibility of leading any of the important
cities in ancient times. The onus will be on you to bring forth a cultural, political, and scientific
revolution so that your city can progress. You will lead the city to glory in this game that usually
consists of more than three players. Collect all the possible resources, create trade routes, and
establish your superiority through your military forces. The game operates on cards, all of which
have special powers. Players must show their cards at the beginning of the game before proceeding.
7 Wonders spans across three ages, and the goal is to become better than your opponents.

What we liked: This strategy game is easy to understand and will even appeal to people who are
new to board games. It is just competitive enough to keep the gameplay exciting.

What could be better: Some players tend to find the gameplay a little tedious after playing a few
rounds. However, that can be easily remedied with new strategies.

12. King of Tokyo – Best Quick Game

FEATURES

! Genre: strategy
8.6
! Number of players: 2–6
! Recommended age: 8+
! Gameplay time: 30 minutes

More features: Space penguin included;

clearer rules and card text; new artwork by
Régis Torres

Check price

Do you fantasize about being a huge monster in a board game? If the answer is yes, the King of Tokyo
is the ideal one to choose. In the game, there are many large beasts roaming about. You will find
Godzilla, King, Kong, and what not. If you want a light-hearted game that has some hilarious fantasy
elements, then you will really enjoy this one. The gameplay is fairly simple, and all the players will be
comfortable with it after a round or two. Feel free to improve your monster form with special
powers and compete against the others by wreaking complete havoc.

What we liked: This is the game you play when you want to have an exciting but effortless
experience. This game is especially suited for kids and teenagers who want to have fun while playing
board games instead of brainstorming.

What could be better: Everybody looks for something different in their perfect board game and that
is perfectly fine. While King of Tokyo is fun in many aspects, it simply does not cater to players who
are looking to play something serious and strategic.

Things to Сonsider

Board games are fun and exciting, but choosing the perfect games for your friends’ group can sometimes
be stressful. The key to choosing board games for a group of people is to take everyone’s preferences
into account. If you keep your eye out for certain features, you should be able to evaluate every choice
fairly.

Features to consider when choosing a board game for six people

Once you have narrowed down your choices for the best 6 player board games, you should consider the
following features.

The plot

The plot of a board game is the primary determinant of whether it something you should purchase.
Board games can be based on different plots related to strategy, fantasy, and adventure, or they can lack
a cohesive plot altogether. Once you decide what type of gameplay you are looking for, it will be much
easier for you to judge games by their plot. Some games like Catan and the Game of Thrones
Boardgame are highly dependent on the storyline. If you love having a fleshed-out story and building on
it, you will love them. On the other hand, other games like the UpsideDownChallenge Game and
Monopoly: Friends The TV Series Edition do not have one set plot. If you prefer not to play within the
set restrictions of a plot, then you will have a better time playing them.

Genre

Just like movies have multiple genres, there are also multiple genres for board games. You, along with
the five other players, should decide what genre will be the most enjoyable. We have tried to include a
variety in our list so that you have plenty of choices no matter what you like.

Wordplay games like Codenames is intellectually stimulating, while strategy games like A Game
of Thrones are usually more immersive.

If you love a hefty dose of fantasy elements in your game, then you will love Talisman. Or, you can take it
a step further with fantasy adventure board games. Monopoly is one of the best commerce simulation
board games and will always end up in excellent rounds. Cooperative strategy board games such as
Betrayal At House On The Hill and Eurogames like Catan are also safe bets.

Recommended age

The recommended age is obviously an important factor to consider when you are choosing a board
game. If you are playing with a group of adults, then you should not face any age restriction problems.
However, if there are young children in the mix and you are looking for a family game, it is better that
you check the age limits before you make the final purchase. Catan and Codenames can be played by
anyone who is above ten years of age. Monopoly, on the other hand, has a lower age limit, allowing
anybody aged eight years and above to play the game. A Game of Thrones Board Game requires players
to be above fourteen years.

Number of players

When you are looking for a board game for a group, you must ensure that the gameplay allows
everyone’s participation. You do not want to be in an awkward position where you invite more people,
but they have nothing to contribute. Most of the games we have mentioned on our list can be played
with two or three players at the very least. For example, Ravensburger Disney Villainous requires 3 to
6 people, while Codenames can even be played with eight people. However, Catan needs six players for
a complete round. The number of players you need will solely depend on your plans and preferences.

Gameplay time

Board games have varying gameplay durations. Some may take just an hour, while others might occupy
you for an entire day. If you have time limits that you need to adhere to, you should look for a game that
can be completed within that period. A fast-paced game like Codenames can be played within fifteen
minutes, which can be a huge advantage if you have time constraints. If you have 30–45 minutes in hand,
you can also play King of Tokyo and 7 Wonders. For long and immersive gameplay, you can play Twilight
Imperium for 4–8 hours.

What’s included

Check the contents of the box so that you can get an idea of what to expect when you try to set it up.
There should be an instructions manual that explains how you have to play the game and lists all the
components. Ensure that you have all the pieces and follow the instructions step by step to get the game
ready.

FAQ

Which board game is the quickest to play?

The board game that is the quickest to play is Codenames. In fact, you can complete a round of
Codenames in just 15 minutes. However, if you want a game that will last a little longer and be
more immersive, you can go for King of Tokyo that usually takes half an hour or Mysterium that
takes around 45 minutes. For quick gatherings, these games are your best bet for a good time.

What is the longest board game to play?

If you want a play a game for a while and have a great time with your friends, then you can play
Twilight Imperium that takes a minimum of 4–8 hours. For Game of Thrones games, nothing can
beat a round of the Game of Thrones Boardgame that can take up to 3 hours.

Which board game allows for multiple replays?

Board games that allow for multiple replays are an excellent investment. You will be able to make
many memories with your friends with such games. Catan, Betrayal at House on the Hill and
Codenames are games that have high replay value. On the other hand, if you are a Friends fan, you
should go for Monopoly: Friends The TV Series Edition.

Should I buy extras and extensions for my board game?

While you can play a base game by yourself, it is always fun to add more gameplay elements to
spice up the experience. You can check out the extras and extensions of the game to see if their
subject matter is something you are interested in. For example, Catan has excellent extensions.
Extras and extensions are often based on user requests so they add important components to the
game.

Our Verdict

All the games mentioned on our list come with their own advantages. We do, however, have some
favorites.

Catan is one of the most popular strategy games in the world, and it is absolutely deserving of all the
praise. As long as you get the multiplayer extension, you should be able to play Catan with your friends.
The new graphics details and the card additions will allow you to expand your world and accommodate
even more elements.

Codenames is a wordplay game that engages players like no other. Each group will have a wordmaster
who will give clues and try to make the team members guess certain words. They have the liberty to be
creative with their word connection, or they can try to play it safe. This game is perfect for parties.

For Game of Thrones fans, no board game will stand close to A Game of Thrones Boardgame. This
massive strategy game puts players in the land of Westeros, where they have to fight for the Iron
Throne.

What will be your pick from our list of the best 6-player board games?

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Catan - Editor’s Choice

9.9
TOTAL SCORE

THE TEAM THAT WORKED ON THIS REVIEW

JOSEPH RYAN KIMBERLY

(Research Writer) (Expert Consultant) (Editor)

KELLIE EVELYN ROY

(Content Manager) (Photographer) (Web Producer)

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