What age should kids start playing modern board games?

Kids as young as 4-5 can play simple games like My First Orchard, Hoot Owl Hoot, and Rhino Hero. Ages 6-8 can handle Ticket to Ride Junior, King of Tokyo, and Sushi Go. By age 10, most kids can play any family-weight game. The key is matching complexity to attention span and reading level.

How do I keep adults engaged in family game night?

Choose games with genuine strategic decisions, not just luck. Games like Azul, Ticket to Ride, and Cascadia reward planning while remaining accessible to kids. Avoid pure luck games like Candy Land — adults check out immediately. The best family games create moments where adults are genuinely trying to win.

Best Family Board Games 2026