Cooperative vs Competitive Board Games: Which One is Right for You?
- Alex
- Apr 29
- 3 min read
Let’s be honest - game night can either bring people together… or tear them apart.
Some people love the thrill of victory and the sting of defeat. Others? They prefer joining forces, saving the world (or at least the game board) side by side. That’s the classic divide between competitive and cooperative board games.
So how do you know which one’s your jam? And more importantly, why should you have to pick just one style when you can try them all?
Let’s break it down.
Competitive Games: For the Love of Victory
If you’re someone who thrives on strategy, outsmarting your friends, and yes, maybe rubbing in a cheeky win now and then, competitive games are where it’s at.
These games put players against each other, whether it's racing to build the longest train route in Ticket to Ride, conquering territory in Carcassonne, or crafting the most beautiful mosaic in Azul.
Why choose competitive games?
They're great for people who love a challenge.
There's tons of replay value, especially when rivalry grows.
Perfect for groups that enjoy a bit of banter or friendly sabotage.
Warning: Competitive games can cause grudges… especially if someone always wins. You know who you are.
Cooperative Games: Win (or Lose) Together
On the flip side, cooperative games have you working together against the game itself. Think Pandemic, where you're racing to cure global diseases, or Flock Together, where teamwork is key to survival.
These games are perfect if:
You hate the idea of someone being left out or losing badly.
You want to strengthen group bonds (hello, team building!).
You enjoy solving problems together under pressure.
There’s something seriously satisfying about pulling off a team win with seconds to spare. It’s like being in a movie… but with snacks and no actual danger.
Why Not Both?
Here’s the kicker: you don’t have to choose one forever. Your mood, group, or even the weather might call for something different.
But buying both competitive and cooperative games? That gets expensive, and you don’t always know what your group will enjoy.
That’s exactly why I started Love Board Games. With a board game subscription, you can borrow board games, try out different styles, and see what works best for you, without dropping £50+ on a single box.
Game night should be fun, not stressful, or financially draining.
A Few Favourites to Get You Started:
Competitive:
Azul – Strategic and beautiful.
7 Wonders Duel – Civilisation-building for two.
Carcassonne – Tile-laying with a sneaky edge.
Cooperative:
Mysterium – Work together to interpret visions and solve a haunting mystery.
Pandemic – Team up to stop global outbreaks and save the world.
Flock Together – Unite as a group of birds protecting their habitat from danger, charming, challenging, and heart-warming.
(And yes, you can find all of these through our board game rental options!)
Still Not Sure? Borrow First, Decide Later
The best way to figure out whether you’re more of a cooperative crusader or a competitive champ is to try a bunch of games. You’ll be surprised how much your group dynamic can shift depending on the game.
And with Love Board Games, it’s super easy to rent board games, experiment with new styles, and never get stuck playing the same thing over and over.
Why buy when you can borrow board games, explore more, and always keep things fresh?
Ready to mix things up on game night?
Start your journey with a board game subscription from Love Board Games today
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