The Most Popular Board Games of all Time
Counting down 5, 10 or even 20 most popular board games of all time is not an easy thing to do. For one, we cannot just simply pick some of the games we know or we have played in the past and put them together on the pedestal. There is no single criteria to determine of a game can be considered as such. Is most popular mean best-selling? Well-known? Or is it a combination of both or other factors?
And due to the subjectivity of the matter and hundreds of games to choose from, picking a game out of the blue can stir some negative reactions to both gamers and creators of the game. Still, we have to make a decision. Since the term “most popular” has to be the most loved, most familiar and most copies sold, in here, we shall base our selections.
1.) Checkers is a fast-paced game that involves virtually limitless range of game possibilities. Although only two players can participate at a time, its simplicity, its very basic rules and the fast-paced character of the game make it perfect for everyone who wants ongoing challenges or tournaments for larger groups.
Why is it on the list? Almost everyone, if not all, knows how to play checkers or can learn how to play the game. And as said above, it is simple, fast-paced and a lot of fun.
2.) Chess is another game with virtually limitless range of game possibilities but involves more strategic and highly trained moves. While chess is more difficult to learn and much harder to master, it is an excellent past-time once you learn the basic moves.
Why is it on the list? Chess is played by millions of people around the world, at home, online, in tournaments and by correspondence. Hundreds of books are dedicated for the game and several international competitions are created to bring out the best in the league.
3.) Monopoly. It may take several hours to play but at least you will learn how to manage, invest and bargain real estate properties in this classic real estate game.
Why is it on the list? It was a big hit when it was first released during the great depression. Monopoly has sold over 200 million copies and has been published in 89 languages. It is estimated that at least 500 million people have played the game. How’s that for a board game?
4.) Sorry! is a colorful and easy to play game that appeals to players of younger generations. The game originated from England before it moved to the United States. Today, the game is sold by Parker brothers.
Why is it on the list? Every Americans must admit that they have played the game at least once in their lifetime. Also, Sorry! has been released in different versions such as Sorry!: The Disney Edition, Pokémon Sorry! and Sorry!: The Spider-Man 3 Edition. For more than 70 years it still maintains its popularity and appeal to children.
5.) Scrabble is not only entertaining; it is also educational. While beginners with limited vocabulary will find it hard to form words, playing the game regularly will improve language skills and encourages learning, reading and literacy, which will help the player to become better.
Why is it on the list? Scrabble has been published 29 language versions and is sold in 121 countries. It is estimated that at least 150 million copies have been sold and 1 out of 3 American homes has a scrabble board.
Other board games that deserve recognition are Chutes and Ladders, Clue, Operation, Life and Yahzee.