8 Family-Friendly Dice Board Games to Try This Holidays
It’s time for a holiday game night with the family, but this year, maybe leave Monopoly on the shelf. Here are 8 great alternatives that are fairer, way more fun, and easy to learn. Some games rely on skill, others on luck, but all bring dice-rolling excitement and that classic board game feel.
1. Catan
Why It’s Great: A modern classic that combines strategy, resource management, and trading. It’s the perfect game for those who enjoy planning and negotiation.
How to Play: Players roll dice to determine which resources are produced each turn, then trade and build to earn points. The first to 10 points wins.
Perfect For: Families who enjoy strategic planning and friendly negotiation.
Number of Players: 3–4
Game Length: 45–90 minutes
2. Machi Koro
Why It’s Great: This lighthearted city-building game is quick to learn and features charming visuals. Perfect for all ages.
How to Play: Roll dice to activate buildings and generate income to expand your city. The first to complete all major landmarks wins.
Perfect For: Families looking for a fast-paced, easy-to-learn game.
Number of Players: 2–4
Game Length: 30–45 minutes
3. Dice Town
Why It’s Great: A Wild West-themed game filled with poker-style bluffing and dice rolling. It’s competitive and interactive, making it a hit for family game nights.
How to Play: Roll poker dice to claim resources, money, and influence over the town. Bluffing and strategic decisions play a big role.
Perfect For: Families who enjoy bluffing and high interaction.
Number of Players: 2–5
Game Length: 45 minutes
4. Stone Age
Why It’s Great: A prehistoric worker placement game that blends strategy with dice-based resource gathering. The theme is beautifully executed.
How to Play: Place workers to collect resources, then roll dice to determine their success. Use resources to build and advance your tribe.
Perfect For: Families who love strategic games with a bit of luck.
Number of Players: 2–4
Game Length: 60–90 minutes
5. King of Tokyo
Why It’s Great: A high-energy game where players control monsters battling for dominance. It’s action-packed and accessible.
How to Play: Roll dice to attack, heal, or collect energy as you aim to become the king of Tokyo. Victory comes through points or eliminating opponents.
Perfect For: Families seeking a fast-paced, action-packed game.
Number of Players: 2–6
Game Length: 30 minutes
6. Bang! The Dice Game
Why It’s Great: A quick and action-packed game with hidden roles and shootouts. The dice add excitement and unpredictability.
How to Play: Roll dice to attack, heal, or perform special actions based on your secret role. Work with allies to achieve your team’s objective.
Perfect For: Families who enjoy light bluffing games.
Number of Players: 3–8
Game Length: 15–30 minutes
7. Ready Set Bet
Why It’s Great: A thrilling horse-racing game where dice rolls determine the race. It’s fast-paced and full of excitement.
How to Play: Bet on horse races while dice rolls decide the pace and outcome. Quick decisions and strategic betting are key.
Perfect For: Families who love interactive, high-energy games.
Number of Players: 2–9
Game Length: 45–60 minutes
8. Betrayal at House on the Hill
Why It’s Great: A spooky, storytelling board game where dice play a crucial role in exploration and combat. Every game unfolds differently.
How to Play: Explore a haunted house, rolling dice to navigate and battle. Eventually, one player becomes the traitor, changing the game’s objective.
Perfect For: Families who enjoy immersive and thematic gameplay.
Number of Players: 3–6
Game Length: 60 minutes
Conclusion
Enjoy the time with your family this holiday season playing these fantastic board games. From the strategy of Catan to the excitement of King of Tokyo, these games offer the perfect mix of fun, dice-rolling, and accessibility for everyone.