Why Do We Love Playing Board Games?

I’ve been thinking lately about what it is that draws us to the table again and again. Whether it's a rainy Sunday, a quiet evening after work, or a full-on family gathering - board games always seem to bring out the best in us. But why? What is it about moving tokens, rolling dice, or flipping cards that keeps us coming back?

Honestly, for me, it’s about connection.

In a world where everything is digital, fast, and often isolating, sitting down for a board game feels like a little act of rebellion. It says, “I’m here. I’m present. Let’s do something together.” That’s powerful.

The Joy of Shared Moments

One of my earliest memories of games was watching my parents play backgammon on holiday, with the sound of the sea in the background. My friends and I used to crowd around, watching them make their moves, whispering strategies to each other and itching for our turn. Even then, I think I knew it wasn’t just about who won - it was about that shared experience, that moment of togetherness.

That feeling hasn’t gone away. When we play Carcassonne or Azul now, it’s not just fun - it’s grounding. It’s laughing at someone’s bold strategy gone wrong. It’s the quiet satisfaction of outsmarting your partner in Patchwork. It’s the collective cheer when you beat Pandemic together (or the collective groan when you don’t). These are the moments that make life richer.

The Right Kind of Challenge

Let’s not forget the thrill of a good challenge. Board games give us a space to test ourselves - our logic, creativity, and sometimes even our ability to bluff with a straight face. But it’s never high stakes, and that’s the beauty of it. You can fail gloriously in Ticket to Ride or be hilariously bad at guessing in Dixit, and it still feels like a win because you're having fun.

Variety Keeps It Fresh

One of the reasons I started Love Board Games was because I knew how much I enjoyed the variety - trying new mechanics, discovering a hidden gem, switching from a light filler game to something deeper and more strategic. But buying every new game? Not so fun for your wallet… or your shelves.

That’s where a board game subscription really makes sense. You can borrow board games, enjoy them, return them, and get something totally different next time. No clutter, no pressure, just pure gaming joy.

Nostalgia, Tactile Joy, and Being Fully Present

Let’s be honest - board games just feel good. Physically opening a box, laying out the pieces, touching beautifully designed components - it’s all part of the experience. There’s a nostalgia baked into the cardboard. It reminds us of childhood, of simpler times. And when you’re mid-game, you’re fully present. Not half-watching the TV, not scrolling through your phone - just fully immersed in something shared.

So Why Do We Love Board Games?

Because they connect us. They challenge us. They make us laugh, cheer, groan, and high-five. They create stories we remember. They help us unwind, come together, and just… play.

And to me, that’s the kind of joy worth sharing.

If you haven’t played a game in a while, or if you’re looking for your next favourite, maybe now’s the time. With Love Board Games, you can rent board games, try new ones, and rediscover why we fell in love with gaming in the first place.

Browse our library and start borrowing joy www.LoveBoardGames.co.uk