Board games. They used to be what we played in dimly lit rooms with mustard coloured furniture, often ending in shouting matches as someone stole someone else’s property or made them bankrupt.

Cluedo, Monopoly, and Scrabble may be wedged into cupboards around the world, and saved for rainy days at holiday resorts, but they are not the games of today.

Today’s board games are as far from these classics as the rotary phone from your smartphone, and they don’t spark wars. Instead, they bring laughter, strategy, and happy play into your home.

This guide is for anyone who wants to find a game they can play without doors slamming and tempers fraying.

Codenames and Codenames Duet

The original game, Codenames, is a win for families and friends, and Codenames Duet is perfect for couples.

Pour a drink, make some snacks, switch on your loadshedding light of choice, and lose yourselves in an evening of guesswork.

Settlers of Catan

Catan is one of the most entertaining games of the century. Gather cards, plan your strategy, trade with other players, and build your empire.

Ever wanted to know what you needed to build a settlement? Why, sheep, of course.

Splendor and Splendor Duel

Splendor is a laid-back game that involves gathering gems to buy cards and get points. You wouldn’t believe something this simple could be this addictive and fun, but it is, and it’s playable from two players and up.

Splendor Duel, on the other hand, is only for two people and is a vicious duel to the finish. It is fun, fast strategy that will keep you hooked.

Azul

Could you become entranced by a game that asks you to move gorgeously patterned tiles to create stunning wall designs for the King of Portugal?

Find out by playing this award-wining game, a hit for its gentle simplicity and beautiful patterns. It can be played by two or more players.

Terraforming Mars

This immersive and challenging game features a ton of pieces and looks as intimidating as a life-size Rubik’s cube. Yes, there is a learning curve, but it’s worth it. Play solo, as a couple, or with family and friends.

Ticket to Ride

This Euro game is genius. Build trains and win. It’s that simple. The best version is arguably Ticket To Ride: Europe, but there are many variations and permutations.

Expect people to end the game standing as the tension grows and the space gets smaller.

Betrayal at House on the Hill Legacy

This is a legacy game that changes the board every time you play. It’s the board game equivalent of a TV series. The learning curve isn’t great, the storylines are brilliant, and you’re guaranteed to laugh every single time.