The Best Board Games Based on Video Games
The Best Board Games Based on Video Games
Video games have long been a source of thrilling adventures, strategic challenges, and immersive storytelling. But what if you could bring those digital experiences to your tabletop? Thanks to creative adaptations, many beloved video games have been transformed into engaging board games that capture the essence of their digital counterparts while offering a fresh, tactile experience. Whether you’re a fan of intense strategy, cooperative play, or competitive battles, here are some of the best board games inspired by video games.
1. Gloomhaven (Inspired by Classic RPGs)
Though not a direct adaptation, Gloomhaven channels the spirit of dungeon-crawling RPGs like Diablo and Baldur’s Gate. This massive, legacy-style board game offers deep tactical combat, character progression, and branching storylines. Players take on the roles of mercenaries navigating a dark fantasy world, unlocking new scenarios and abilities as they progress. Its card-driven combat system and persistent world make it one of the most immersive board games ever created.
2. The Witcher: Old World
Based on CD Projekt Red’s acclaimed The Witcher series, this board game plunges players into a monster-filled world where they take on the roles of fledgling witchers. Featuring exploration, deck-building, and intense monster-slaying combat, The Witcher: Old World perfectly captures the dark fantasy tone of the games. With multiple paths to victory and a strong narrative focus, it’s a must-play for fans of Geralt’s adventures.
3. Dark Souls: The Board Game
Known for its punishing difficulty and intricate combat, Dark Souls translates surprisingly well into a tactical board game. Players must carefully manage stamina, dodge deadly attacks, and cooperate to defeat gruesome bosses. The game’s modular tile system ensures no two playthroughs are the same, and its unforgiving nature stays true to the source material. If you love a challenge, this one’s for you.
4. XCOM: The Board Game
Adapting the tension and strategic depth of the XCOM video games, this real-time cooperative board game tasks players with defending Earth from an alien invasion. One player takes on the role of the Central Officer, managing resources and crises, while others command troops, research tech, and engage in frantic combat. The app-driven timer adds urgency, making every decision feel critical—just like in the digital version.
5. Bloodborne: The Card Game
A faster, more accessible take on FromSoftware’s gothic horror masterpiece, Bloodborne: The Card Game distills the game’s ruthless combat into a tense, push-your-luck experience. Players hunt monsters, collect blood echoes, and betray each other in a race for victory. While simpler than the video game, it retains the dark aesthetic and risk-reward gameplay that fans adore.
6. Fallout: The Board Game
Step into the post-apocalyptic wasteland with Fallout: The Board Game, which faithfully recreates the exploration, faction conflicts, and dark humor of Bethesda’s RPGs. Players complete quests, scavenge for gear, and navigate a branching storyline influenced by their choices. With multiple endings and a strong emphasis on player freedom, it’s a fantastic adaptation for fans of the series.
Final Thoughts
Board games based on video games offer a unique way to revisit familiar worlds in a new format. Whether you prefer deep strategy, cooperative challenges, or competitive skirmishes, there’s a tabletop adaptation out there for you. These games not only pay homage to their digital origins but also stand strong as excellent board games in their own right. So gather your friends, clear the table, and dive into these fantastic adaptations—you won’t be disappointed.
