Not all board games are fleeting fads. Some titles become true staples: reliable, replayable, and beloved by all kinds of players. Whether you’re introducing a new friend to the hobby, looking for something quick and easy, or just reaching for a game you know will deliver every time, these evergreens are the ones we always come back to.
Here are six of our favorite “Oldies but Goodies”, games that have stood the test of time and earned a permanent place on our shelves.
🌊 Sea Salt & Paper
A pocket-sized paper ocean packed with tension.
This tiny game with origami-inspired art is full of surprises. Sea Salt & Paper blends set collection, combo-building, and push-your-luck play in a clever little package. The best part? You’ll want to play it again immediately.
Shop Sea Salt & Paper - $14.95
🧠 The Mind
Can you play in perfect sync—without speaking a word?
The Mind is a minimalist co-op card game that challenges you to play cards in ascending order without communicating. It’s all about timing, intuition, and reading your teammates' vibes. It sounds simple—but it’s surprisingly intense (and hilarious when you nail it).
🍄 Brew
Control time, tame magical creatures, and brew powerful potions.
Brew combines dice placement with area control in a whimsical, competitive game about restoring balance to a fractured forest. Gorgeous artwork, flavorful mechanics, and surprising depth make this one a go-to for gamers who like a bit more bite in their game night.
🚢 Beacon Patrol
Chart the coast and keep the seas safe—one tile at a time.
A gentle co-op game with tile-laying mechanics, Beacon Patrol puts you in command of a coast guard ship as you work together to map the sea and ensure everything’s in order. Quick turns, satisfying reveals, and cozy vibes make this a crowd-pleaser every time.
🃏 The Game
Work together to beat the game... literally.
In The Game, you and your fellow players try to discard every card in ascending or descending order across four piles. The catch? Limited information and tight constraints make every play feel crucial. A cooperative puzzle that’s incredibly easy to pick up—and hard to put down.
🏙️ Machi Koro
Build the city of your dreams—one dice roll at a time.
Machi Koro is a fast-paced engine-builder that has you racing to develop landmarks and grow your city. You’ll roll dice, collect income, and strategically choose what to build next. Simple to learn and endlessly satisfying, it’s perfect for families and new gamers alike.
