Top 5 Board Games That Don't End Friendships

Tabletop picks that keep game night competitive without anyone storming off before dessert.

1. 1

   Codenames — Vlaada Chvátil

   Team play spreads the blame around, and a bad clue gets you laughed at instead of resented.

2. 2

   Wingspan — Elizabeth Hargrave

   Everyone builds their own bird sanctuary, so you get the satisfaction of winning without ever wrecking someone's plans.

3. 3

   Sushi Go Party! — Phil Walker-Harding

   Rounds are so fast that nobody can hold a grudge for longer than it takes to pass the cards.

4. 4

   The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine — Thomas Sing

   A co-op trick-taker where the only enemy is the deck, and somehow that brings out the best in everyone.

5. 5

   Ticket to Ride — Alan R. Moon

   Losing a route stings for a second, but the trains are too charming for anyone to stay mad.