Pokémon originally started as a video game, but because of its popularity, it has spawned several board games and card games too. While the medium and rules of play may have changed, these board games feature the same iconic Pokémon, as well as the themes of competition and companionship. Whether it’s a unique take on Monopoly or an original Pokémon board game, each of these games have something fun to offer.
The best Pokémon board game is the Ravensburger Pokémon Labyrinth Family Board Game. It’s unique, has a ton of replay value and is fun for young children and parents alike.
Board games aren’t just a matter of picking up the game and playing it. There’s a certain learning curve to every board game. For this reason, younger children may struggle to pick up the game, while older children may prefer more immediate action typically found in video games. Most board games will list the target age group in the description, so be sure to keep this in mind if you plan on purchasing for a child.
Board games are almost always multiplayer experiences. You simply can’t play them by yourself. Board games range anywhere between two players all the way up to eight players. The more players are added to the game, the longer it can take to teach everyone the rules and to complete a single round where everyone takes their turn. Whether you plan on playing with your family or buying it as a gift for a friend, consider how many people will be willing to play.
Board games can take a long time to complete. Not only do you have to learn the rules, you have to wait for everyone to finish taking their turn as well. Unlike an online multiplayer game that automatically imposes a timer on people’s turns, board games can have a more casual feel, broken up by idle conversations and bathroom breaks.
The goal of a great board game is to include as many people as possible, making it a challenge while ensuring it isn’t too hard to pick up. There are various elements that can raise the learning curve of a board game, including the number of rules to remember, the purpose of each piece/token/card and the concepts involved.
Older children may appreciate a steeper learning curve because it allows them to develop certain skills in the game, whereas younger children may want to simply play right away.
Board games usually come packaged with a playing surface or board, tokens that represent the players, cards and other useful game pieces such as dice, play money or hourglasses. Although it only makes sense for board game manufacturers to make them as cheap as possible, that doesn’t excuse a poor level of quality control. Always check to make sure you have the right number of pieces and that they are made according to their advertised versions.
This should go without saying, but if you’re looking for a Pokémon board game, make sure it’s officially licensed by The Pokémon Company. It’s possible some brands may try to get away with having the Pokémon name on their games or to feature lookalike monsters. Look for the official Pokémon logo and a sentence mentioning official licensing.
Pokémon board games start at around $15. They can go as high as $50 depending on the production run and quality of the game.
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Ravensburger Pokémon Labyrinth Family Board Game
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What you’ll love:
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Where to buy: Amazon
MONOPOLY: Pokémon Kanto Edition
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Where to buy: Amazon
Pokémon TCG: Pokémon Battle Academy
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Where to buy: Amazon
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Leo Herrera-Lim writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
