13 Best RPG Board Games
If you are looking for the best RPG board games, then you are in the right place. Role-Playing Games are a type of game that has been around for a long time. It is an excellent way to escape into a fantasy world where you play the hero role on your own epic quest for glory.
In the modern era, RPG games are often associated with mobile or computerized versions. However, this is a common misconception because they are physical RPG games too.
There are tons of board games with a roleplaying theme that you can find in stores. Those board games provide an intense character and story development that might even be considered the original and truest form of RPG games.
In his guide, we’ll provide you with the 13 Best RPG Board Games to choose from. You can now start enjoying the benefits of board gaming if you are tired of RPG computer and mobile gaming.
How To Choose The Best RPG Board Games?
There are a lot of features you should consider when buying your next RPG game. Those features include;
Theme
The best way to choose your roleplaying game is by thinking about the theme. There are plenty of different themes out there, like sci-fi or horror, and fantasy. For that reason, stop and think if there’s a particular theme that you like more than others.
We all have that one genre we want to play. If there’s a particular genre you’re in the mood for, you can guarantee there’s a board game out there for it with RPG elements.
Duration
Role-playing games can be quite lengthy. This is because they’re detailed and almost always include the ability to customize and play a range of characters with your choices.
However, despite the fact that they tend to be longer, there is still some variation in their length. If you want to have a long enjoyable game night, or you just want a game that will only take up part of your evening, you can choose the one that suits you the best.
The duration of most games can be found in their descriptions. The back of the box is where you’ll typically find information about how many people can play, what ages the game is limited to, and an estimate on how long it will take for them to play it.
Beginner-Friendliness
When you’re planning to play with friends, the odds are that not everyone sitting at your table will be an expert in the game.
Because of this, the learning curve of any board game is worth factoring in. The more complex the rules, the longer you’ll need to spend learning them, especially if you are a beginner.
The steeper learning curves mean It takes more time to learn the game rules. While the lower learning curves mean the game is easier for beginners and those who are just starting out. They can jump in without such a struggle.
The game’s description isn’t always clear about how difficult it can be to get the hang of. For information on how hard the game is, you can usually take a look at customer reviews.
Number Of Players
Before buying your RPG game, you should consider who you will play this game with. RPG games differ in player count. Some games can be played solo, others with two players, and even more. Of course, you want all your friends to have a share of the fun.
Price
RPG games come in a wide variety of prices. you should look for a game that suits both your needs and your budget.
Gloomhaven
Players : 1-4
Ages: 14+
Game Time: 60-120 minutes
Complexity: High
Release Year: 2018
Gloomhaven is one of the most popular tabletop RPG games out there. If you are looking for a new exciting adventure, then this game is for you.
This adventure will have you exploring the imaginary world of Gloomhaven as a means to discover what secrets await within its depths.
The game is set in a European-inspired atmosphere but with an added twist of changing the realm. As an adventurer, you are given a set of skills to escape from caves and dungeons. You can use these abilities in order for you to defeat monsters and save yourself from their terrors.
Through your journey, new abilities are revealed to help you in your quest. You will also discover hidden locations that can lead directly towards your victory.
Gloomhaven starts with the selection of two cards to play. There are two power options on each card, the top power, and the lower power, and it’s up to you which one you want for a specific round.
You have to be careful when choosing your move because it may affect your other moves. So winning this game depends on building great strategy and wise decision-making skills.
Finally, the game is highly replayable and more fun when you play with friends or members of your family. However, it can be satisfying to play this game solo too.
Pros
It provides long hours of gameplay.
Has a unique card system.
Loads of different enemy types keep the game interesting
Replayability
Seemingly endless content.
Immersive storytelling.
Strategic and tactical combat tabletop games.
Cons
It takes a long time to set up.
Final Thoughts
Gloomhaven board game is like an epic, immersive adventure. It’s also the perfect way to spend time with friends and family. Once you play it, you will get so into the story and your own individual characters that time just seems to fly by. Those who are a fan of RPG games will love the Gloomhaven game.
Mansions of Madness 2nd Edition Board Game
Players: 1-5
Ages: 14+
Game Time: 120-180 minutes
Complexity: Medium
Release Year: 2016
For those who find thrill in horror and mystery stories, Mansions of Madness is the best game for them. This cooperative board game is designed for one to five players, with two or three hours of gameplay.
The Mansions of Madness Second Edition will take you to a different dimension full of dreadful adventures and mishaps. The main goal of each player is to fight for their lives and stay alive to the end of the game.
The only way to win the game is by using a strategic approach that will help you find clues and collect weapons and tools. You must also gather information about your surroundings in order for it all to make sense.
Also, you’ll need to defeat monsters, solve complex puzzles and discover ways of avoiding insanity or death as you make your way through this horror-adventure game.
Mansions of Madness is more than just about survival skills. It also requires strategy, decision-making, and creativity to ensure that you are able to win this challenging game.
Pros
Very stimulating, as it requires deep critical thinking.
A great choice for fans of horror and suspense.
It can be played solo or with a group of up to five players.
Cons
Game duration is long and not suitable for those who like shorter games.
Has a lot of components, which can be misplaced.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a game that will test your skills and reflexes, then Mansions of Madness is your best choice. You can play it on your own or with up to four of your friends. This game is for people who want their new adventure to be full of horror, suspense, and mystery.
Mice & Mystics Board Game
Players: 2-4
Ages: 7+
Game Time: 90 minutes
Complexity: Medium
Release Year: 2018
Mice and Mystics is one of the best RPG board games that brings friends and family together to have adventures. The best part about it? You get the freedom of imagination.
The game is an interactive adventure where your loyalty and cooperation will be tested. To achieve your common goal, you and your friends have to work together.
You have to turn back into humans, save the king, and restore the kingdom to its former peace. In this game, you play the role of loyal subordinates who have been turned into mice by Vanestra.
If you want to defeat Vanestra, you have to race through the castle and prepare a great plan to save the king and the kingdom as well.
The key to winning this game is to find the weak point of Vanestra in order to defeat him, and to do that; you need to find the clues that will lead you to it. Finally, This board game comes with a number of expansion sets that you can give them a try as well.
Pros
Rules are simple and easy to understand.
It comes with a great and unique theme and storyline.
Family-friendly
Has the right gameplay time for a family game.
Cons
It may be too simple for veteran players.
Luck-driven dice battles.
Final thoughts
If you want to spend quality time with your family and have a fun night game, Mice and Mystics is the best roleplaying game for you. This cooperative family-friendly game is designed for players from 7 years and up and can be played with up to 4 players.
Stuffed Fables Board Game
Players: 2-4
Ages: 7+
Game Time: 60-90 Minutes
Complexity: Low
Release Year: 2018
For people who spend their childhood excited by fairy tales, stuffed toys, and dreamlands, this Stuffed Fables roleplaying board game is their best choice.
Also, What’s more fun than playing board games with your kids? Especially when they’re the kinds that keep you on your toes and provide a new challenge every time, Stuffed Fables is just such an activity. You can play this exciting game with your family and have tons of laughs all around.
In this game, you take on the role of a stuffed toy in a quest to save a little girl from Lord Of Nightmares. With this game, you get a storybook that also serves as your rulebook reference and guide, which will help you through your adventure. With every page of this storybook, You will explore a world full of wonders and dangers.
The choices you make through your journey should be made wisely, as they will determine whether or not you will defeat Lord of Nightmares and win the game.
The Stuffed Fables is a fun, challenging experience for players from 7 and up. It can be played with two to four people and lasts 60-90 minutes.
It’s perfect for kids who love stories and playing games. And also, it is the perfect choice for parents who want to play board games with their children.
Pros
It has an extremely engaging and well-written story.
An impressive design and artwork
An unforgettable experience.
The gameplay becomes more involved.
Children love it.
Cons
Not recommended for those who like complex games.
Final Thoughts
Children of all ages will love this Stuffed Fables roleplaying board game. With a beautifully-designed world and an engaging story, it’s the perfect way to bring your imagination into reality.
Adults also will love this game; it will bring all those childhood memories alive as you play alongside stuffed animals and other fairytale friends on quests that require careful planning or quick thinking.
Dead of Winter A Crossroads Game
Players: 2-5
Ages: 13+
Game Time: 60-120 minutes
Complexity: Medium
Release Year: 2014
The Dead of Winter is a game for people who enjoy playing survival-of-the-fittest type games. In this game, you take on the role of a survivor trapped inside an abandoned building where most people have already died or become flesh-craving monsters.
The Dead of Winter is a unique meta-cooperative psychological survival experience. In this game, You are not just trying to cooperate with your co-player in order to achieve a common goal, but also you have to complete your secret personal goal.
The secret goal could be anything, it may or not harm the others, so while following your team plan, you really have to come up with your own strategy as well.
This excellent board game takes 60-120 minutes to play and comes with a high replay value. In some scenarios, everyone could win or lose; however, there are also times when only one or some people win. In this game, you will be tested not only on your strategic abilities but also on your cooperation and loyalty.
Pros
The psychological aspect of the game makes it more interesting.
For those who want more, expansion sets are available.
Scaling difficulty level.
Component quality
Promotes table-talk.
High replayability
Strategy game
Cons
It might not be suitable for very young players.
Gameplay can last pretty long.
Final Thoughts.
The Dead of Winter is both a cooperative and individual game. You have to work with your team and proceed with your personal plans as well. If you enjoy playing survival games, this one’s for you. You can play it with up to four of your friends and have a nice night game full of challenges.
Arkham Horror The Card Game
Players: 1-2
Ages: 14+
Game Time: 60-120 minutes
Complexity: Medium
Release Year: 2016
For those who enjoy suspense and thrill, this is the best RPG board game to check out. It has everything from suspense and horror all in one package.
Arkham Horror is made by the same manufacturer that makes Mansions of Madness and Eldritch Horror. It is another Lovecraftian horror game that will send chills down your spine.
In this game, there is a wide variety of 16 different investigator cards to choose from. Every one of those investigators has his own set of skills, strength, weakness, and talents.
You are one of these investigators, and you start wandering around the city streets, looking for the dark entities called Ancient Ones.
The ancient ones are eight in number, but you have to defeat only one. This one can be chosen before the game starts.
Each gamer can upgrade his character when he attains skills, finds allies and performs specific tasks or missions. You need to work with your teammates, come up with a strategy and move in harmony with them in order to win the game.
Pros
The game is easy to understand.
Multiple challenges
Various investigator characters to choose from.
Comes with several possible endings.
Emergent stories as you fight the mythos.
Cons
Setting up the game can take some time.
The game is based on a little luck.
Final Thoughts
If you want an RPG game that can be played with only two players, Arkham Horror is your best choice. This game is for those who enjoy games full of suspense, thriller, and horror. You can play it solo as well.
Star Wars Imperial Assault Board Game
Players: 1-5
Ages: 14+
Game Time: 60-120 minutes
Complexity: High
Release Year: 2014
If you are a Star Wars fan, then this is the best RPG board game for you. Star Wars: Imperial Assault is a tactical and strategic combat game that provides the players with a set of two unique games in the Star Wars universe: Skirmish Mode and the campaign mode.
In this campaign mode, one player acts as the commander of troops and uses all resources available to defeat the elite rebel team. The remaining four players take the role of the elite Rebel and try to break down the rule of the empire over the galaxy.
You can take on the role of a Rebellion hero while the other player becomes Imperial officers, commander of the Stormtroopers, and AT-ST walkers, or you can switch roles. While In the skirmish game, you have a head-to-head battle with any other player.
This game takes place during the time of the Galactic Civil War. This was when the Death Star was destroyed. This war was between the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire.
The original game is intense, but if you want to make it even more so, there are expansion sets that can be bought. These give more scenery and excitement for roleplaying.
Pros
Comes with two unique game modes: campaign and skirmish.
Made out of quality components.
Best for Star Wars fans.
Interaction with friends.
Cons
A little overwhelming and complex.
Requires a long-term time commitment.
Final Thoughts
If you are a Star Wars fan, then Star Wars: Imperial Assault is your best choice. In this game, you will feel like being part of the star wars story. You can choose your preferred role; you can free the galaxy from Imperial rule or crush the Rebels. The fate of the galaxy rests in your hands.
Descent: Journeys in the Dark 2nd Edition
Players: 2-5
Ages: 14+
Game Time: 60-120 minutes
Complexity: Medium
Release Year: 2012
Step into a world of fantasy and ancient adventures with Descent Journeys in the Dark board game. This game is designed for two to five players, where one takes the role of the treacherous overlord and the others play as brave heroes.
The hero player’s goal in this game is to defeat the overlord. The game is full of dangerous caves, dark dungeons, and ancient ruins. You will also come across curse forests as well. There are always horrible monsters hidden in the forest that you need to be careful of.
Through the game, You’ll be able to earn riches, new skills, and combat abilities that will help you discover and destroy the evil plot of the overlord. But, the heroes must remember that solidarity and seamless coordination is the key to victory.
This board game has a virtually infinite number of possible skills and hero combinations, which makes it challenging to play but also fun.
Finally, the game is also story-driven, making it immersive and exciting. Whether you’re a newbie or veteran, there’s no doubt that you will be satisfied and enjoy this game.
Pros
Has unique and original scenarios and objectives.
Simple, thematic rules.
Smooth combat system.
Good campaign mode.
Cards and miniatures are beautifully made.
You have the option to create your own scenarios.
Cons
It is a dice-based game, so it depends on a little luck.
Final Thoughts
Descent Journeys in the Dark is a cooperative game that takes you on a journey of unique adventures. In this fun game, you can be the overlord or one of the heroes. It is an excellent way to get your friends together and have some good laughs.
War of The Ring 2nd Edition
Players: 2-4
Ages: 13+
Game Time: 150-180 minutes
Complexity: High
Release Year: 2020
Fond of Lord Of The Rings? If looking for a game that combines strategy and roleplaying, then War of The Ring 2nd Edition is your best choice.
War of The Ring is an action-packed strategy game that is based in the world of Middle-earth. In this game, players take control over the free people and the forces of shadow to battle it out with each other, fighting to rule Middle Earth.
This is an area control strategy war game where you can feel the Lord of The Ring theme running through every character and event card.
In this game of war, you are on one side or another. You can choose to be on the good side as one of the free people (Rohan, Gondor, Dwarves, Elves, and the men of the North) who fight against Sauron and his army for good, or you can choose the other side.
The free people are on a mission to destroy the one ring by casting it into Doom’s Crack. But there is also another player who goes by the name of Shadowplayer; he wants to corrupt the fellowship on their quest.
The shadow player wins when he corrupts the whole fellowship or controls 10 points of enemy cities.
This game is like a hybrid between strategy and roleplaying games. It has the perfect balance of both for those who want some captivating story-driven objectives but also strategizing with friends over how best to complete them.
The game is so big that it will take up your whole tabletop. You will need a decent amount of table space to set up this game. In this game, you literally get to roleplay the Lord of the Ring; how cool is that.
Pros
The action dice mechanic is unique and fun
very balanced game
The Lord of the rings theme is amazing
Highly immersive gaming experience
Replayability
Cons
Not suitable for 3 players. Either 2 or 4.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of Lord of the Rings, then War of The Ring 2nd Edition is your best game. It’s easy to get completely wrapped up in and fall for all those little details that make it so immersive.
The artwork in this game is absolutely stunning. The miniatures are so detailed and impressive. And the mechanics of gameplay are well balanced.
Sword and Sorcery Immortal Souls Game
Players: 1-5
Ages: 12+
Game Time: 60-90 minutes
Complexity: High
Release Year: 2017
Sword and Sorcery is a brilliant fantasy roleplaying game where players take control of legendary heroes who have been brought back from the grave to fight evil.
At the start, the characters will be in a weakened state; this is because they have been frozen for centuries and need to recover to continue on their journey.
As you play through the game, your character will grow stronger by playing story-driven quests and battling monsters.
The Sword and Sorcery game comes with so many different character customization options. Players get to choose from five classic RPG classes Ranger, Knight, Rogue, Cleric, or Wizard.
Also, they get to choose the character’s soul nature. It is the character’s ‘skill tree’ which is a major determining factor in how they play during gameplay. The different ‘attunements’ are Law, Neutral, and Chaos.
Those choices also affect how the interaction between players’ characters will be handled, starting abilities, and the health each character gets.
As players make their way through the map, they’ll unlock Story Events and Waypoints that allow them to fast-travel between locations.
The Book of Secrets will tell you more about the quest and the enemies to deal with. It will not only give helpful information on how to proceed but also tells you when your quest is done.
Heroes are able to keep all items earned during the scenario and move on with their next campaign part after successfully completing a quest.
An Emporium is a place where players go between scenarios to spend their coins to purchase helpful consumables that will be useful during the quest.
Pros
The story is immersive.
Every character in every game feels and plays differently
Great artwork and quality components
High replay value
Cons
The game can take a long time to set up.
Final Thoughts
In terms of roleplay games where character customization is at aim, Sword and Sorcery are the best. This epic RPG comes with multiple character customization options that make this an incredible game. The story is immersive and interactive, making it a great co-op board game to play with friends and family.
Talisman: Revised 4th Edition
Players: 2-6
Ages: 12+
Game Time: 90-120 minutes
Complexity: Low
Release Year: 2020
Talisman: Revised 4th Edition is an addictive and fun adventure where players need to battle monsters and other characters on their way from the outside to the center of the board.
It has a high replay value with over 14 different characters to choose from, such as heroes, wizards, villains, thieves, monsters, etc. Each one has its own unique traits, abilities, and play styles, meaning there will always be something new waiting for you in multiplayer mode.
When the game starts, first, you need to make a choice of who will be your player. Each character is unique; some excel at combat while others can manage magic or even mix both abilities into their fighting style.
Each character also starts with different stats; these include Life, Strength, and Craft. Through the game, players will acquire items and companions that teach new abilities, creating a truly unique experience every time they play.
The game is easy to play and a great way for beginners who don’t know how board games work.
When players start the game, they are in an outer world. They can move around this vast land collecting items and leveling up their character to then progress into the middle world and finally have access to the center of the board by activating the talisman quest.
During your journey, if you move into a new space with another player, You can choose either to attack him or not.
But remember, the crown of command is in the center of the board, and if one player reaches it first, then all other players start to slowly die and must rush the player holding the crown to take them down before they finish the rest of the players off. So Everyone for themselves.
Pros
Huge character selection
Beginner-friendly
high fantasy artwork
A large number of unique spaces on the board;
Variable player powers
Cons
Luck factor
Potential long playtime with more players
Final Thoughts
Talisman: Revised 4th Edition is not only a lot of fun, but it’s also an excellent way to learn how to play games more strategically. It’s a great game for beginners and experts alike. This game can be played with up to six players. It is an easy-to-play yet challenging RPG that will have you hooked from start to finish. It is the ideal choice for a family board game.
Pathfinder Adventure Card Game: Rise of the Runelords
Players: 1-4
Ages: 14+
Game Time: 90 minutes
Complexity: Medium
Release Year: 2013
This popular board game is an adaptation of a traditional pen and paper RPG game called Pathfinder.
It is a battle-driven, cooperative deck-building RPG card game that can be played either solo or with up to four people. But It’s best when you play it with your friends as it will be more fun.
Pathfinders is a game with a bit light on story, with players having to piece together the background solely by flavor text included on scenario cards. It’s an easy game where you don’t have to think too much.
However, its deep customization and progression make it a good roleplaying game. Pathfinder is an adventure game that can be played with cards and dice. The game starts with players choosing their character from the pathfinder universe. You can choose from Wizard, Fighter, Cleric, and more.
Each player will start with a unique deck of cards that will provide them with different abilities depending on which character they choose.
Pathfinder Adventure Card Game: Rise of the Runelords consists of several scenarios. Each scenario has a unique villain, and the players need to defeat him before they can go on their next mission.
Heroes will battle their way through location decks in order to find the Villain of this scenario. They have to make sure that there are no escape routes left before defeating them. It is important for players to work together and strategize because there’s only a limited amount of time to do so.
Every victory rewarded the player with new abilities and cards to help progress their character, along with stronger deck Building options for their next fight.
If the players are able to defeat all the villains, then they win. If all of them die or run out of cards, it’s over for everyone, and they lose.
Pros
Character progression is awesome.
It can be a really fun campaign-style game
Quick games once everyone knows the rules
Cons
Depends on a little luck
Replay value relies on expansions
Final Thoughts
If you want an RPG game that is with an immersive light story experience but with deep character customization options, then Pathfinder Adventure Card Game: Rise of the Runelords is for you. this base game is easy to learn with simple rules making it a light introduction to RPG board games for the new players.
One Deck Dungeon
Players: 1-2
Ages: 14+
Game Time: 30-45 minutes
Complexity: Medium
Release Year: 2016
The five heroes in One Deck Dungeon are all unique with their own special abilities. how many dice you will be able to use for each skill depends on The number of skill icons that you see on your card
You will use the entire encounter deck in every game, so you must shuffle it and place it on top of a “Stairs” card. The stairs tell players when they can move up to the next level within the dungeon.
During the encounter, you’ll find dangerous monsters that need to be defeated. To do this task successfully and easily, it will help if your dice match up with all of their boxes on the cards.
If you cannot cover all the boxes on either type of encounter, then you can lose time or health.
Whether or not you successfully defeat the encounters, you will be able to collect the rewards on those cards. The three types of rewards that you can get include items, skills, and experience points.
The items can give your character better stats, and with the skills, you will be able to use special abilities. The experience points allow for leveling up your character development, which is important because it is a chance to learn new skills, hold more items and get additional dice for encounters.
The bosses in the game are much tougher than the encounters. Once you get all the way through the dungeon, you will flip over the boss card. But this time, you must repeatedly attempt to defeat the boss, unlike in the encounters.
If you can take down the boss’ health to zero, it’s game over. But you will lose if you or one of your team loses their health.
Additionally, the One Deck Dungeon game includes campaign sheets that allow you to level up your character progression for future games. Gameplay is always the same, so it’s easy to simply check off different boxes after each game and add those talents to your character before starting your next play-through.
Pros
Well-designed theme.
high replay value
Built-in variety
Small box, but a big game in relation to value.
Cons
The game requires a lot of dice rolling.
The artwork could have been developed further.
Final Thoughts
One Deck Dungeon comes in a small box that is full of surprises. This game will occupy a small area on your tabletop. With its small box and relatively quick playing time, this game is the perfect lunch-hour dungeon crawl.
