Bring Back Board Games!

The other day, when I rearranged one of my closets, I came across a shelf of board games such as Monopoly, Clue, Dominoes, and more. I realized, I haven’t played any of these in so many years. Actually, pretty much since digital devices have become such an integrated part of my life.

I stood looking there at the games and thought about the differences between playing board games at a table in your kitchen versus playing the same game online with people across the world. Yes, I play a few games online but realized there are things missing with digital games.

Yes, you play with others. You talk with others but if your internet goes down, you can’t do this. The nice thing about the old fashioned board games is that you are spending time with others physically. You have a real interaction with others that you see. The reactions are more instantaneous with a chance to see the other people’s face and actions.

This personal touch means people have a more authentic interaction since you are there to see everyone and instantaneously react to their reactions. It is easier to laugh together, give a friendly hand bump, or even tease about a bad roll. Digital misses the accidental spilling of food or drinks.

It’s a lovely way to spend family time, friend time, in person, something we kind of got away from during COVID. Yes, you might have friends you play with online all the time, people from around the world but it is still missing that personal touch, the one we all crave even if we don’t admit it.

Personally, I’m going to take those games off the shelves, dust them off, invite family over for a game night. Then I’ll do it again and again until its a tradition. Perhaps you’ll think about doing it for your family. If your family isn’t around, there are always retirement homes or senior centers that might enjoy having game sessions organized.

Reconnect with family and friends with board games. Let me know what you think, I’d love to hear.