Board games still thrive today, even in a world of digital innovation and a massive video games industry. But why are board games so beloved, and what makes them so popular? There are many reasons why people of all ages love board games, but there are also some deep-rooted ideas that strengthen the appeal of board games across generations. From providing a deep social connection to bridging the generational gap, here are some ideas to consider.
Escaping the Digital Overload
In a world where everything is always switched on and connected, there is something to be said about getting away from it all. Board games don’t require a Wi-Fi hub, won’t blast your eyes with blue light, and don’t send you a notification every two minutes! Of course, you can play games like chess online, but getting away from the digital overload can be what you need to reset your batteries. Taking it slow and playing a game with a friend, face to face, is a nice break.
Board Games Still Thrive Because of Connection
Video games are impressive these days, with ultra realism and immersive virtual reality. There are over 3 billion gamers, and many play for social connection. But you can also get the same, if not more, social connection when playing a classic board game with a close friend or colleague:
- Board games are actually designed to be played with others, unlike most video games.
- They also force face-to-face interaction, which is critical for forming relationships.
- You can share the experience through hearing laughter and sharing smiles.
Classic and Innovative Design
Classic board games relied on a simple but effective “roll and move” mechanic that has stood the test of time since ancient Greece. Games like Monopoly have become household staples, and there are many versions for everyone, such as city-based Monopoly or even movie spin-offs, such as Star Wars. It is innovative designs like this that have kept board games going for so long, ensuring players don’t get bored with the experience and continue to enjoy them.
The Tactile Experience
Video games are more realistic than ever today, and VR is making them even more so. However, even the best VR games that offer fully interactive environments are missing many tactile elements that make something feel real. Weight, a sense of touch, and the appreciation of quality craftsmanship can’t (not yet at least) be replicated in a virtual space. It is these experiences that keep players coming back to board games as they offer something tangible.
Cognition is a Reason why Board Games Still Thrive
Board games are still alive and well for the reasons we are exploring. In fact, a survey by Asmodee found that 26% of people still play board games at least once per week. Alongside nature’s brain boosters, such as mushrooms, board games can help cognitive improvement.
Memory retention
Most board games require you to remember specific rules, and some are extensive. There are also strategies involved, and these force your brain to make better use of memory formation.
Processing speed
The brain is pretty good at performing tasks quickly. But board games force it to process data quicker, and this leads to permanent skills you can use in everyday life and at work.
Spatial reasoning
Games that require 3D placement of objects, such as Azul, are excellent for developing spatial reasoning skills. They help you visualize and mentally manipulate objects to gain an advantage.
Playing board games can act as a kind of mental gym that works out the brain every time you play. And it doesn’t matter how old you are. The benefits, such as memory recall, processing speed, and spatial reasoning, prevent mental decline in older people and aid children’s learning.
Empowering Indie Developers
There are board game juggernauts that dominate the market, such as Monopoly and Cluedo. However, there are also some newcomers that have sold impressive units and are becoming classics in their own right. The access to the market by indie developers means innovation and advancement are always there to appeal to new players across generations. Some of the most notable new titles include ChronoSphere: Echoes, Atlas Realms, and Veridian Gates.
Nostalgic Board Game Cafés
It’s hard to find someone who didn’t play board games as a child, and even into their teens and adulthood. Nostalgia is a major marketing ploy these days, and it works to great effect. The current video games market is being overtaken by classic games (for many reasons) as people seek to relive their youth. For board games, savvy café owners are cashing in on nostalgia by offering a safe, warm, and welcoming place to break out classic board games with friends.
Board Games Still Thrive Across Generations
A survey in the US found that around 22% of video gamers are over the age of 65. Most older people who enjoy games prefer board games, yet only around 9% of gamers are under 24. So, board games can help bridge the gap between generations who enjoy playing games:
- Parents and grandparents can share memories while bonding with board games.
- Playing classics like Monopoly is a time-honored tradition in many families.
- Board games offer a level playing field when it comes to taking on the adults!
Merging with Companion Apps
Like everything, there is an app for board games. More accurately, companion apps. Where technology might once have been a competitor to board games, it is merging with them instead. With companion apps, players can keep up with complex rules, explore new ideas for playing styles, and even interact using AR. Innovation like this is helping bridge the generational gap between tech-savvy kids and older adults, all while retaining the fun as we move forward.
Summary
Escaping a digital overload during the day is one reason why board games still thrive in a world of technological innovation. However, board games are also recognized as a great way to sharpen the mind, and there are also games you can play using modern technology like AR.
