Do you enjoy candlelit dinners, long walks on the beach, and an evening spent out on the town? If so, keep on walking, Sugarplum. Because for me, nothing says romance like a night in with a board game and my oh-so-schmexy boyfriend. Discover the best games for couples below.
Board games are the perfect way for couples to connect. They’re also a lot more fun than slurping raw oysters or throwing on a pair of fancy — and usually uncomfy — underpants. So if you’re in search of the perfect date night activity, look no further! Here are a few of our favorite best board games for couples.
Our Top Picks for Best Board Games for Couples
In a hurry? Check out our favorites below.
7 Wonders: Duel
Players: 2
Playing time: 30 min
Age: 10+
Based on its award-winning predecessor, 7 Wonders: Duel is a card game in which players race to develop their own cities. You can win by achieving military or scientific supremacy first.
Or, if you’re facing a particularly tough opponent, you may also play through the three ages of the game. Whoever has the most victory points at the end of the third age will then be hailed champion.
Nothing gets a gamer’s heart pumping like a bit of competition. And 7 Wonders: Duel is made specifically for two players. So if you want a bit of one-on-one fun with your sweetie pie, it’s the game for you.
What we liked
7 Wonders: Duel has a perfect back-and-forth element to it, as well as being fast-paced and dynamic. It is excellent for couples who might want to practice strategic techniques and it has good depth. There is also a solo mode if your partner heads off for an early night.
What could be better
The setup is quite time-consuming, especially for a short game and if a tug-of-war style game is not your jam then you won’t love it.
Azul
Players: 2-4
Playing time: 30-45 min
Age: 8+
Named after “azulejos,” colorful Portuguese tiles inspired by Moorish design, Azul is a unique and visually stunning board game. Your task is to decorate the king’s royal palace. You compete against your rivals by collecting sets of tiles and placing them in specific patterns.
Azul works with 2-4 players, which means you can play with just your partner, make it a double date, or invite that awkward third-wheel friend. And with such vivid colors and beautiful patterns, no one will even notice that you forgot the flowers for your date.
What we liked
Azul is fun for couples and the rules are simple, making it an awesome game for a chilled night in. The intricate, vibrant tiles are aesthetically pleasing to no end and might even inspire the artisan in you both.
What could be better
Azul is a simple abstract game that does what it says on the tin. You may feel that it is easier to lose points rather than gain them so don’t allow this aspect to frustrate you.
Pandemic: Iberia
Players: 2-5
Playing time: 45 min
Age: 8+
Pandemic: Iberia is a strong standalone addition to the Pandemic franchise. Your job is to work together with your teammates to stop the spread of disease within the Iberian Peninsula.
But don’t get too anxious; it’s set in 1848 – not 2020 – and you’re fighting the board to stop classics like malaria, typhus, cholera, and yellow fever.
If your sweetheart doesn’t feel like taking his or her frustrations out on you, Pandemic: Iberia’s cooperative gameplay is a good choice. Plus, what better way to commemorate surviving 2020 than by kicking some pandemic butt?
What we liked
The option to play against each other or cooperatively is a nice touch. The setting is super impressive and the characters are well-rounded. Pandemic: Iberia is one of the most attractive versions of the Pandemic series.
What could be better
When playing the cooperative version, it may seem a bit difficult to win and for people who don’t want reminders of life in 2020, this game may fail to please.
Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective
Players: 1-8
Playing time: 60-120 min
Age: 13+
You don’t need to be a crime scene investigator to become enthralled with the Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective board game. This standalone edition includes ten different cases, including four that will eventually lead you to the notorious Jack the Ripper.
Is your significant other a true crime junkie? Do you often overhear the podcasts they listen to or take part in conversations with them that make you fear for your life? Have no fear! Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective is immersive enough to keep you and your partner busy and your life intact… for now.
What we liked
This highly popular novel-based game gives you and your other half a chance to find out which one of you has true detective skills. It is fairly slow-paced and there is plenty of reading to enjoy. It is very immersive and intuitive and as well-written as you would expect from a game of this standard.
What could be better
Some scenarios are much better than others and even if your goal is to solve the game with as few clues as possible, in an investigatory role, you probably will want to go down all the leads and search further.
Imperial Settlers – Empires of the North
Players: 1-5
Playing time: 45-90 min
Age: 10+
Imperial Settlers: Empires of the North is a fast-paced game in which you race to explore new areas, build up resources, and construct structures. With adorable artwork and six different clan decks, it’s often ranked more highly than its predecessor!
Though you can play with up to four people, some players insist that two is the perfect number. Its cute layout is sure to cheer your partner up.
But if they’re still feeling a bit chilly once the game is over, don’t worry; there’s also a solo option for those of you who have been banished to the couch.
What we liked
Deflecting your opponent while building your economy requires an excellent mix of skills to use for a friendly match against your loved one. It’s a pretty solid game with several different styles of playing and some really cool combos. The design is a definite winner.
What could be better
This engine-building game doesn’t feel like it gives a lot of space for creativity and feels a bit outdated. It is not particularly easy and it can seem a bit lengthy at times.
Jaipur
Players: 2
Playing time: 30 min
Age: 12+
Combine a bustling Indian market, a picky Maharaja, and a camel or two, and you’ll end up with the basic premise of Jaipur.
Basically, it’s your job to gain access to the Maharaja’s court by outwitting – and outtrading – the rival merchant in town. This is a card game in which luck and strategy merge to create fast-paced and exciting gameplay.
Jaipur is specifically created for two players, so it’s a perfect game for date night. And if you and your partner are stuck at home, its vivid visuals and exotic backdrop can offer you a bit of an escape.
So order in some Indian food and break out the camels!
What we liked
Jaipur is a fast-paced card game, boasting a perfect blend of tactics and luck. It is risky, which keeps the adrenaline going. Trading games can be loads of fun with just 2 players as you know exactly your opponent’s position. A really nice concept and excellent for couples as it is designed as a two-person face-off.
What could be better
The setup is fairly long and fiddly for a short game. It can come off as a bit repetitive and even too simplistic at times.
Patchwork
Players: 2
Playing time: 15-30 min
Age: 8+
Just because you don’t have a home out on the range doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate your pioneer roots with Patchwork.
Patchwork is a puzzle game in which two players compete to get the most points by building a beautiful quilt.
With playtime as short as 15 minutes, Patchwork’s length of play is great for couples who have – ahem – more important things to move on to. Plus, it’s the perfect setup for a pick-up line: “This tiny quilt may not be able to keep you warm, but I sure can.”
… You’re welcome.
What we liked
Patchwork is focused on construction, strategy, and a dash of imagination, which is great for flexing your concentration skills. It provides a nice short filler game and is designed for just 2 players so feels like the perfect colorful game to brighten up a gray, rainy day with your smooch.
What could be better
As far as polyomino games go, it is certainly a fun task but the replayability doesn’t really match up to the thrill of the first few games. If you are willing to do the arithmetic on each turn you can probably win easily.
Star Realms
Players: 2
Playing time: 20 min
Age: 12+
If Star Wars and Firefly had a love child, Star Realms would be it. There is a two-player max for this card game, and it includes four factions you can use to wage battles in space.
You can choose from any faction during gameplay, but cards of the same faction often build off one another. So it’s a good idea to stick to 1-2 factions during a game.
The romance of Star Realms rests in the array of expansions available. These expansions can spice up what might otherwise become a tired and overplayed game.
Plus, you get the privilege of someday using the line, “Back in my day, Trump was a reality TV star, Google didn’t exist, and there were only three Star Realms expansions.”
What we liked
If you’re familiar with deck-building games and like something fast-paced, then you’ve come to the right place. This open-drafting game is engaging and combative so try to not get too distracted on romantic evenings. Star Realms is easily portable and fun for both seasoned gamers and non-gamers.
What could be better
It seems that if you have a stroke of luck or misfortune at the beginning of the game, it can be hard to turn it around and you may find that the luckier player at the start might retain that position throughout.
Codenames: Duet
Players: 2
Playing time: 15-30 min
Age: 11+
The card game Codenames: Duet lets you get your Mr. and Mrs. Smith vibe on, while still celebrating the word geek you are.
In the game, you and your partner are two spies working together to deliver messages to other secret agents. You do so by giving one-word clues that your partner must then use to guess a series of other words.
If you and your partner have a thing for word games, then Codename: Duet is for you. It’s all about luck and forming word associations. So break out your mental dictionary, draw a card, and talk synonyms to me, baby.
What we liked
A sweet cooperative game with your beau is a divine date night filler. Unlike regular Codenames, you can continue guessing as long as you keep identifying an agent each time. This is helpful for when you go back to previous clues and can find ones you missed earlier.
What could be better
The classic version of Codenames provides an excellent group dynamic at parties and if you’re used to that atmosphere when playing, you could end up finding the intimate version a bit flat in comparison.
Splendor
Players: 2-4
Playing time: 30 min
Age: 10+
Splendor is an engine-building game in which you are trying to gain enough components – and points – to make the perfect gem. Its easy-to-learn rules and quality components provide a quick and enjoyable gameplay experience.
Splendor is a great choice if you’re trying to introduce your partner to board games without overwhelming them. It’s simple to learn and doesn’t take all night to play.
Plus, who doesn’t love the idea of making their own sparkly gemstones?
What we liked
Playing the roles of merchants is bags of fun in this chip-collecting marvel of a game. Splendor is a competitive and elegantly designed challenge with varying levels of complexity throughout.
It can be an awesome intro to engine building and is pretty easy to teach to your partner. The chips are of excellent quality too.
What could be better
There aren’t any huge decisions to be made and it can seem quite chaotic if there are more than 2 players. It is best used as a warmer as the theme will likely become tiring after a few plays.
Ticket to Ride
Players: 2-5
Playing time: 30-60 min
Age: 8+
The goal of Ticket to Ride is to claim train routes and try to connect them to different cities. At the end of the game, the player with the most points (which are primarily gained by reaching destination cities) wins.
The gameplay for Ticket to Ride is pretty simple. The best part of this game for couples is the chance to choose which version they want to play.
Can’t afford a trip to India? How about the UK? Is Africa a little too hot this time of year? Choosing your map adds a bit of intimacy to an otherwise generic board game.
What we liked
We love an easy-to-pick-up gateway game and building your own train routes is super satisfying. Couples who are not hardcore gamers can still have a light-hearted blast with this one and the components are of high quality. Ticket to Ride is optimal for strategists and has aged well since its first release.
What could be better
If either participant has played it several times before, they will most likely have an advantage over a newer player. You might find yourself picking up endless cards that you don’t want, which can become tedious too.
The Fox in the Forest
Players: 2
Playing time: 30 min
Age: 10+
The Fox in the Forest is perhaps one of the most beautiful games on this list. It’s a trick-taking game in which you use different characters to gain points. You can choose the length of your game, and you win by getting the most (but not too many!) points.
The Fox in the Forest is designed specifically for two players. It’s a great game to bring on trips with your boyfriend or girlfriend; the small cards make it super portable. Add to that its gorgeous artwork and folkloric elements, and it’s the perfect addition to any fairytale romance.
What we liked
Trick-taking can be endless fun, and The Fox in the Forest allows great replayability. The design and artwork of the game are true winners and the cards with special powers add a little extra spice that can change your hand. It’s also light enough to take on a romantic getaway.
What could be better
As the focus is mostly based on trick-taking, gamers who are not a fan of this tactic might be less interested. It might feel slightly simplistic at times and doesn’t always give the feeling of full accomplishment as some other 2-player challenges offer.
Imhotep: The Duel
Players: 2
Playing time: 30 min
Age: 10+
Like many of the other games on this list, Imhotep: The Duel is a two-player version of the original multiplayer game.
The goal of this game is to build monuments and amass points. Its colorful pieces and cute little boats are nice components to what is already an enjoyable game.
Not only is this a two-player game, but it also centers on one of the most famous royal couples in Ancient Egypt. Nefertiti and Akhenaten ruled sometime around 1330 BC and ushered in religious change and a period of great wealth.
So why not strengthen your relationship by playing a game centered on the OG power couple?
What we liked
Imhotep: The Duel is an easy game to learn, it is fast-paced, and the principal actions of placing a worker or unloading a boat mean players must get into decision mode. It is perfectly compact, so if you and your other half feel like slipping away for a weekend, it’s light enough to transport.
What could be better
It feels like it is missing some strategic elements and the tension found in the classic version of the game doesn’t seem to be matched in the two-player version.
St. Noire
Players: 1-99
Playing time: 20-30 min
Age: 12+
If you’re a fan of technology and all things Noir, there’s a good chance you’ll love St. Noire.
It’s your job to solve a murder using the clues given to you not only by the cards you draw but also by your Alexa device. This enticing new take on mystery board games promises diverse and unique gameplay.
Whether or not you’re the femme fatale in your relationship, the one-of-a-kind experience offered by St. Noire is a fun way to spice up you and your partner’s game night.
So dim your lights, don your gritty personas, and work together to unveil the dark underbelly of St. Noire.
What we liked
This deduction/murder mystery game has nice quality components and the soundtrack and dialogues give it extra flair. Featuring Alexa is a super cool concept, and the game is undoubtedly innovative.
What could be better
Even if Alexa is a fabulous bonus to this game, it would be better if it was optional. Unseasoned gamers might be put off by the requirements of the app, and you and your hot stuff might feel as though she’s an unwelcome third wheel.
Fog of Love
Players: 2
Playing time: 60-120 min
Age: 17+
In Fog of Love, you get to take part in all the crazy drama of a whirlwind romance without any of the potential fallout.
This two-person game either pits two new lovers against each other or binds them together. Players’ responses to cards determine whether or not their fictional relationship will survive.
When playing Fog of Love as a couple, it’s a bit like Inception; a relationship within a relationship within a relationship within a… you get the point.
You get the chance to live through your avatars and laugh at the situations, whether ludicrous or realistic, that they go through. It’s a sure winner for a gamey date night.
What we liked
Fog of Love is full of laughs and awkward compromises — albeit necessary ones. The psychological theme gives an opportunity to learn a bit about your loved one even when in character. It’s a superb concept with a sleek design, and perfect for a snuggly evening by the fire.
What could be better
The game relies solely on the role-playing element so if one of you is a bit timid in these types of games, it will either make you or break you in terms of skill development.
Archaeology: The New Expedition
Players: 2-5
Playing time: 20 min
Age: 10+
Archaeology: The New Expedition is a revamped version of the original Archaeology card game in which you gather relics and try to sell them for the highest price.
This new edition includes more visually appealing artwork and a few extra pieces to spice up gameplay.
As a fan of The Mummy, I’ve always been on the lookout for the Rick to my Evelyn. Archaeology: The New Expedition offers quick and simple gameplay with a theme I really dig (get it?).
What we liked
Non-gamers will have no issues learning the ropes here. You and your sidekick will adore the set collection aspect as well as the fun of deciding when to trade with the market and when it’s best to put down a set of cards to lock them in.
What could be better
As much as there are tactics involved, ultimately the game relies heavily on luck, so some players will continuously draw low-value cards on every turn and feel frustrated.
Sushi Go!
Players: 2-5
Playing time: 15 min
Age: 8+
If you’ve ever been to a crowded conveyor belt sushi restaurant, you know that the struggle is real. There’s always that one perfect plate that you and your arch-nemesis across the room both have your eyes on.
Sushi Go! recreates this territorial showdown with cute graphics and fast gameplay. Win by quickly choosing cards to build sets of sushi, sashimi, and maki rolls.
In my opinion, sushi is always the perfect date option. But you can avoid a hefty bill – and the arch-nemesis across the way — by sticking to a game of Sushi Go! with your partner.
What we liked
This draft and pass award-winning game boasts huge popularity and not without good reason. Sushi Go! is simple to learn, with stunning artwork, and optimal component quality.
If you and your loving companion are in the mood for an easy-going evening, Sushi Go! has all the trimmings, just make sure not to forget dessert.
What could be better
Sometimes the most basic games get tiring quickly and ultimately Sushi Go! is heavily dependent on luck. Rather than a box it comes in a tin, which could be a bit rackety if you’re taking it on a trip.
Morels
Players: 2
Playing time: 30 min
Age: 10+
Morels has a cute concept that anyone with a healthy taste for edible fungi can appreciate. This game includes two decks: a day deck and a night deck.
Different varieties of mushrooms, some valuable and some deadly, can be gathered. You can either sell your mushrooms to gain abilities or cook them to gain points. Whoever ends the game with the most points wins.
If you or your partner love mushrooms, then this game is right up your alley. It’s a two-person game and perfect for couples. Plus, it combines some pretty cool concepts and themes (‘shrooms!) that you likely won’t see in other games.
What we liked
We adore this unique theme. The graphics are neat and funky and it is perfect if you enjoy a non-combative card game. The cards are dual-purpose and depict mushroom varieties, so nature lovers will delve into this palatable dimension without issue.
What could be better
With the need to reset the cards each time, you might become a bit fatigued. More player interaction would be fun and ultimately, it isn’t hugely challenging.
Cottage Garden
Players: 1-4
Playing time: 60 min
Age: 8+
Have you ever wanted to try your hand at gardening but you’re all thumbs and not one of them is green?
Cottage Garden is a beautiful puzzle game that lets you grow flowers without getting your hands dirty. You choose things like flowers, wheelbarrows, and kitties (yes, kitties!) to help your garden grow.
Gorgeous illustrations and soothing gameplay make Cottage Garden a great game for you and your partner when life gets a little crazy. So whip out your metaphorical spades and get to work!
What we liked
This tile placement game is full of cute perks. Bonus tokens that can complete empty spaces or give you a better selection of the flower bed tiles are rewarded when you cross over a line on each track. Cottage Garden is an awesome polyomino-style challenge that shines best as a 2 player game.
What could be better
It can drag on if players take their sweet time choosing pieces but that tends to be more of an issue in larger groups, while a general challenge of two halves tends to flow in a timely manner.
Tsuro of the Seas
Players: 2-8
Playing time: 20-40 min
Age: 8+
Here there be dragons. Or at least a few destructive sea serpents. Also known as the “Dai kaiju”, these grumpy ocean monsters are out to sink your ships.
Rogue waves can also send you off course. Outlast your opponent and survive these trials (and the roll of the dice), and you’ll be crowned the winner.
If you or your significant other are fans of Japanese imagery, Tsuro of the Seas is a simple and fun game you may not have encountered before.
As a couple, you will go against each other and the angry ocean to see who comes out on top.
What we liked
Becoming masters of the seas is a fabulous and exciting journey for couples to embark on. Tsuro of the Seas is intuitive, light, and an advancement over the base game as it includes dai kaiju tiles which represent sea monsters and other curious sea life.
The color scheme is an upgrade from the OG version and the blend of luck and chaos keeps the challenge running smoothly.
What could be better
The player elimination aspect could be the only major weak spot. For those that don’t appreciate change, you could become frustrated at the alteration of rules from the classic version, but as with any game that follows a strong predecessor, you might want to play a few times before you and your partner start enjoying the updated style.
Wrap-Up
Hey, I like piña coladas and getting caught in the rain just as much as the next girl. But what really revs my engine is someone that I can laugh, play, and collaborate with.
Board games are the perfect tool for finding out more about your partner. You can learn a lot about a person by the way they win, lose, and come together with others to make something happen.
So whether it’s your first or thirty-first date, try something new and give one of these board games a try! Have you tried any of these board games? Did we miss your favorites? Drop a comment below and let us know.
Growing up in a rainy old English city allowed plenty of time for board games with the family. Whether it was an afternoon Dominion marathon or a rivalry-fueled round of Catan with my brothers, there was always time to get to know the latest board games. Today, I have a continuous thirst to attempt the newest and most challenging games available.