Crisp air, falling leaves, pumpkins. It’s spooky season! And that means it’s time to whip out your favorite horror-themed board games and get in the spirit (we couldn’t resist).
There are tons of games out there that are perfect for the Halloween season, but here are 9 of our absolute favorites.
1. Betrayal at House on the Hill
We’re going to start with one of our all-time favorites. Between building the haunted mansion during the game and a randomly chosen haunts, it’s basically a different experience every time you play. Plus, there’s nothing more satisfying than becoming the traitor and turning on all your friends.
2. Horrified
A beautifully designed ode to classic movie monsters like Dracula, Creature from the Black Lagoon, The Mummy, and more. It’s pretty to look at and fun to play. Couple that with how easy it is to learn and it’s no wonder this has quickly become a modern classic.
3. Mysterium
Ghosts, strange visions, and a murder mystery. So…like, Clue in a haunted house where you’re working with other mediums and a ghost in order to solve a murder. Tricky, strategic, and creepy. We’re in!
4. Dead of Winter
What would this list be without zombies? There’s nothing like finding out who really has your back when you come face to face with a zombie horde. Paranoia is the real winner in this game and we’re here for it.
5. The Arkham Horror Files
Ok, so we’re cheating a little bit on this one because, really, half of this list could be games in the Arkham Horror Files line. Arkham Horror, Eldrich Horror, Mansions of Madness, Elder Sign, plus tons of expansions. If you love H.P. Lovecraft and saving the world from monsters these game are for you.
6. One Night Ultimate Werewolf
Speaking of games with a lot of versions, enter: One Night Ultimate Werewolf. This social deduction game (think Mafia or Secret Hitler) is quick, easy to play, and good for large groups. And if you’re not into Werewolves, don’t worry, there’s also One Night Ultimate Alien, Vampire, Super Villain, and more.
7. Gloom
For the more sadistic among us, the point of this game is to make a family as miserable as possible before they meet their own demise (or as we call it, Thanksgiving ?). It’s great for when your party just needs just a touch of darkness. But seriously, it’s deadly fun.
8. Villainous
Less spooky, more evil — but we think it belongs here. I mean, how often do you get to indulge your evil side and be the villain for once? Admit it, Peter Pan can be a little annoying and we’ve empathized with Hook on more than one occasion. Sometimes it’s fun to be bad. Plus, it’s a game the whole family can play together.
9. 13 Dead End Drive
Speaking of the whole family, we wanted to put something on here for the kids. Scary games aren’t strictly for adults, right? This hidden identity game full of secret murder traps is fun for any age. Not to mention it gives us some serious nostalgia vibes.
Bonus Pick: Ouija
There’s debate over whether this is a true board game or not. But wherever you land, you have to admit nothing says Halloween more than a game steeped in legend and the occult. It seems like everyone has a creepy story about “that one time” they were playing with a Ouija board. Turn out the lights, light some candles, and instantly up the creep factor for any gathering.
This list is far from extensive. The horror genre in the world of board games is only growing thanks to the success of some of the more mainstream titles. And we can’t wait to see what’s to come in the future!