Board games, cherished by people of all ages across the globe, continue to thrive despite the initial fears that new technologies might overshadow them. The enduring appeal of board games lies in their unique social nature, offering an interactive form of entertainment that fosters connections and shared experiences. This article delves into key trends shaping the board game industry, highlights some of the most iconic and beloved titles, and explores the diverse behaviors and preferences of board game enthusiasts. From innovative game mechanics to evolving player demographics, we will uncover what keeps this classic pastime relevant and enjoyable in the modern era.
In 2022, the global board games market was valued at $11.88 billion. That same year, it generated $8 billion in revenue. There are over 20,000 board game publishers and approximately 150,000 board games and related titles in existence. Chess is considered the most popular board game of all time, with more than 3 million sets sold annually in the US alone.
- For 50.60% of US adults, the primary benefit of board games is their ability to enhance social interactions.
- While 21.40% of US adults play board games at least once a month, only 1.70% play them annually.
- Among board game enthusiasts, 47.20% favor word games, making them the most popular category.
- In terms of perceived game type, 82% of US adults view Chess as a game of skill, while 54% see Chutes and Ladders as a game of luck.
- Although it can result in disqualification in professional settings, 3% of US adults admit to always cheating at board games to win.
- Similarly, 3% of US adults confess to quitting board games when losing.
Board games market
The board games industry is projected to continue growing annually, showing no signs of slowing down. The diverse range of games available caters to people of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring there is something to suit every preference. Additionally, the replayability of these games provides consumers with lasting satisfaction from their purchases.
- As of 2022, the global board games market was valued at $11.88 billion, with annual revenue reaching $8 billion.
- By 2020, there were over 20,000 board game publishers worldwide.
- Asmodee holds the largest market share globally, accounting for 18%.
- By 2024, over 150,000 board games and related titles are listed on the popular database and forum BoardGameGeek.
Popular board games
Both classic and modern titles are featured among the most popular board games of all time. Advances in manufacturing, innovative marketing strategies, and diverse pricing have made board games more accessible than ever, keeping consumer demand and engagement strong.
- Chess is estimated to be the most popular board game of all time, with over 3 million sets sold annually in the United States alone.
- While historical sales data is limited, Chess enjoys global popularity and is frequently sold alongside Checkers due to their shared board.
- In the realm of modern board games, Monopoly and Scrabble are considered among the most popular.
- Monopoly has sold 275 million copies, while Scrabble has sold over 150 million copies to date.
Benefits of board gamesThe social nature of board games promotes spending quality time with family and friends, fostering communication, competition, and enjoyment. Regular play can offer numerous social and mental health benefits, enhancing relationships and providing cognitive stimulation.
- Fifty percent of US adults believe that the greatest benefit of board games is the increased opportunity to socialize.
- Regular players of board games and puzzles experience a 47% reduction in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Over a 20-year period, board game players face a 15% lower risk of dementia compared to non-players.
- Regular engagement with board games can also increase gray matter volume in the brain, improving cognitive function.
- Additionally, understanding Monopoly can help players learn fundamental math principles such as counting, addition and subtraction, multiplication, and percentages.
A graph is given below to show the benefits associated with board games:
How often people play board games
A survey of US adults reveals that board games remain a popular hobby for many. Nearly 3 out of 4 adults play board games at least once a month, while only 7.30% do not engage in regular play.
| Frequency | Percentage |
| Daily | 15.50% |
| Weekly | 37.20% |
| Monthly | 21.40% |
| Once every few months | 16.50% |
| Once a year | 1.70% |
| I’ve played but not regularly | 7.30% |
| I’ve never played a board game | 0.30% |
(survey of 1,158 US adults)
A graph is given below to show how often people play board games:
Most popular board game types
Board games span a wide range of categories, from the simplest to the most complex. Word games are the most popular, with nearly half of players preferring them over other types. In contrast, dexterity and deduction games are among the least favored.
| Board game type | Percentage |
| Word games | 47.20% |
| Strategy games | 43.40% |
| Abstract games | 37.40% |
| Dice games | 31.30% |
| Trivia games | 29.30% |
| Family games | 27.50% |
| Role-playing games | 13.00% |
| Dexterity games | 9.20% |
| Deduction games | 8.50% |
(survey of 1,158 US adults)
A graph is given below to show the most popular board game types:
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Opinions on board games – skill vs. luck
The popularity of a board game often hinges on the balance between skill and luck required to win. Generally, games that demand a higher level of skill tend to be favored by adults, while those reliant on luck are more commonly enjoyed by younger players. Despite this, games that skew significantly towards either skill or luck can still feature prominently on the list of most popular board games.
| Board game | Opinion: Skill | Opinion: Luck | Opinion: Don’t know/other |
| Chess | 82% | 4% | 14% |
| Checkers | 77% | 10% | 13% |
| Scrabble | 76% | 9% | 14% |
| Connect 4 | 49% | 21% | 30% |
| Clue | 46% | 23% | 30% |
| Backgammon | 45% | 13% | 42% |
| Battleship | 45% | 31% | 23% |
| Monopoly | 42% | 46% | 12% |
| Yahtzee | 22% | 49% | 29% |
| The Game of Life | 16% | 46% | 38% |
| Settlers of Catan | 15% | 6% | 80% |
| Chutes and Ladders | 11% | 54% | 35% |
(survey of 1,226 US adults)
Cheating at board games
While cheating in board games is generally frowned upon, some individuals still resort to it to gain an advantage. Men are reported to cheat slightly more often than women, though the percentage of those who admit to it remains relatively low, around 30%. It’s important to note that many respondents may be reluctant to admit to cheating due to its negative connotations.
| Frequency | All adults | Men | Women |
| Never cheat | 68% | 65% | 71% |
| Rarely cheat | 9% | 10% | 8% |
| Sometimes cheat | 4% | 5% | 4% |
| Often cheat | 3% | 5% | 2% |
| Always cheat | 3% | 3% | 2% |
(survey of 1,226 US adults)
Cheating at board games
Although cheating in board games is generally disapproved of, some individuals still resort to it to gain an edge. Men report cheating slightly more often than women, but the percentage of those who admit to it is relatively low, around 30%. It’s important to consider that many respondents may be hesitant to disclose such behavior due to its negative perception.
| Frequency | All adults | Men | Women |
| Never cheat | 68% | 65% | 71% |
| Rarely cheat | 9% | 10% | 8% |
| Sometimes cheat | 4% | 5% | 4% |
| Often cheat | 3% | 5% | 2% |
| Always cheat | 3% | 3% | 2% |
(survey of 1,226 US adults)
A graph is given below to show how frequently adults cheat at board games:
Quitting board games when losing
Similar to cheating, quitting board games out of disappointment or anger is viewed as poor conduct. Fifty-five percent of adults report that they never quit a game under such circumstances, with little difference observed between men and women. It’s worth noting that respondents might be reluctant to admit to ending games in this manner due to its negative connotations.
| Frequency | All adults | Men | Women |
| Never quit | 55% | 51% | 59% |
| Rarely quit | 13% | 13% | 14% |
| Sometimes quit | 10% | 13% | 7% |
| Often quit | 5% | 5% | 4% |
| Always quit | 3% | 3% | 3% |
(survey of 1,226 US adults)
A graph is given below to show how frequently adults cheat at board games:
Quitting board games when losing
Similar to cheating, quitting board games due to disappointment or anger is considered poor sportsmanship. Fifty-five percent of adults claim they never quit under these circumstances, with no significant difference between men and women. It’s important to note that some respondents may be reluctant to admit to quitting games in this manner.
| Frequency | All adults | Men | Women |
| Never quit | 55% | 51% | 59% |
| Rarely quit | 13% | 13% | 14% |
| Sometimes quit | 10% | 13% | 7% |
| Often quit | 5% | 5% | 4% |
| Always quit | 3% | 3% | 3% |
(survey of 1,226 US adults)
A graph is given below to show how frequently adults quit board games when losing:
FAQ’s
What was the global board games market value in 2022?
- The global board games market was valued at $11.88 billion in 2022.
How much revenue did the global board games market generate in 2022?
- The market generated $8 billion in revenue in 2022.
How many board game publishers were there as of 2020?
- There were over 20,000 board game publishers as of 2020.
Which company holds the largest share of the global board game market?
- Asmodee holds the largest market share globally, at 18%.
How many board games and related titles are listed on BoardGameGeek as of 2024?
- There are over 150,000 board games and related titles listed on BoardGameGeek as of 2024.
What is considered the most popular board game of all time?
- Chess is estimated to be the most popular board game of all time.
How many Chess sets are sold annually in the United States?
- More than 3 million Chess sets are sold per year in the United States.
Which modern board games are among the most popular?
- Monopoly and Scrabble are considered among the most popular modern board games.
How many copies of Monopoly have been sold?
- Monopoly has sold 275 million copies to date.
How many copies of Scrabble have been sold?
- Scrabble has sold more than 150 million copies to date.
What percentage of US adults play board games at least once a month?
- Nearly 75% of US adults play board games at least once a month.
What percentage of US adults are not regular board game players?
- About 7.30% of US adults are not regular board game players.
What is the most popular type of board game among players?
- Word games are the most popular type of board game, with almost 50% of players preferring them.
Which types of board games are the least popular?
- Dexterity and deduction games are among the least popular.
How does playing board games affect the risk of developing Alzheimer’s?
- Regular board game players experience a 47% reduction in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
What impact does board game playing have on the risk of dementia over 20 years?
- Board game players have a 15% lower risk of suffering from dementia compared to non-players.
How does regular board game playing affect brain function?
- Regular board game playing can increase gray matter volume in the brain, enhancing cognitive function.
What educational benefits can be gained from playing Monopoly?
- Monopoly can teach players key math principles, including counting, addition/subtraction, multiplication, and percentages.
What percentage of people admit to cheating at board games?
- Around 30% of people admit to cheating at board games.
How many adults report quitting board games due to losing?
- Fifty-five percent of adults report that they never quit board games out of disappointment or anger.
