5 Fast, Fun Family Games Parents Are Loving This Year
If your kids burn through board games faster than snacks, you’re not alone. Today’s families need games that are quick to set up, easy to explain, and fun for mixed-age play. Especially for those tiny windows of connection between homework, dinner, and “Mom, can I have my iPad?”
These five new games are the best family games in 2025 and hit the sweet spot: high-energy, low-prep, and genuinely fun for parents too. Here’s why they’re showing up on family game night tables everywhere.
Best Family Games of 2025
1. Brick Like This (Asmodee + The LEGO Group)
A frantic, teamwork-based LEGO building challenge that gets everyone laughing.
Why Moms Love It
This game is pure collaboration. There are no reading long rules or complicated setup. One child gives instructions, the other builds (and then you swap). It’s a communication workout disguised as fun, and it’s perfect for siblings who “don’t play well together.”
Quick Facts
• Ages: 7+
• Time: ~15 minutes
• MSRP: $19.97
• Available: All major retailers
Mom Tip
Use the challenge cards (like building with eyes closed or one hand!) to instantly level the playing field between mixed-age kids.
2. Connect 4 Frenzy (Hasbro Games)
The classic Connect 4 from Hasbro, but make it chaotic, fast, and much louder (in a good way).
Why Moms Love It
Kids bounce discs instead of dropping them, which taps into all that after-school energy. Plus, the “steal a spot” rule keeps gameplay competitive, but not cutthroat. It’s fast, fun, and easy enough that even grandparents can jump in.
Quick Facts
• Ages: 8+
• Time: ~10 minutes
• MSRP: $14.99+
• Available: All major retailers
Mom Tip
Set this out before dinner. The round ends quickly, and kids get wiggles out while you finish cooking.
3. Cows in Space (Relatable)
A silly magnetic UFO-cow-abduction game from Relatable that younger kids cannot stop playing.
Why Moms Love It
It’s active, hands-free, and ridiculously funny. Kids wear a magnetic UFO headband and race to pick up cows while the base spins. Perfect for the child who can’t sit still during board games. And yes, parents end up playing too — because it’s impossible not to.
Quick Facts
• Ages: 6+
• MSRP: $21.99
• Available: All major retailers
Mom Tip
This is your go-to for kids who usually hate turn-taking games. Everyone is moving at once!
4. Popdarts (Popdarts)
A stick-anywhere (literally) suction-dart tossing game that works indoors or outdoors.
Why Moms Love It
No screens. No noise. No complicated rules. Just toss, stick, score. Popdarts work on windows, fridges, counters, doors — almost anything smooth — which makes this a lifesaver for rainy days and backyard play.
Quick Facts
• Ages: 7+ (Rookie sets for 5+)
• Players: 2–4 (or more with extra darts)
• MSRP: $39.99
• Available: Amazon, Walmart, Hobby Lobby, Popdarts.com
Mom Tip
Keep a set in the car. This becomes an instant hotel-room or grandma’s-house activity.
5. Simon Jump Mat Game (Just Play)
A throwback to the 80s Simon game with this version from Just Play. Jump the pattern instead of pressing it.
Why Moms Love It
It gets kids moving. Period. This is the perfect choice for kids who crave active play but still love classic memory games. And if you grew up obsessed with Simon (you know who you are), it’s a fun nostalgia moment to share with your kids.
Quick Facts
• Ages: 8+
• MSRP: $20.99
• Available: All major retailers
Mom Tip
Add a second mat and host “Simon tournaments” during playdates. It burns energy fast.
Trend Takeaway: Creativity & Customization Are In
This year’s hottest and best family games all have one thing in common: kids aren’t just playing. They’re creating, collaborating, moving, and problem-solving. Whether they’re building LEGO models, bouncing discs, abducting cows, or hopping through memory patterns, the magic comes from:
- Quick, high-energy challenges
- Games that grow with the child
- Teamwork, not just turn-taking
- Creative, hands-on play
- Easy setup (because no parent has time for rulebook novels)
These games make it easier to say “yes” to play even on the busiest days.
To get more playful ideas and toy tips, follow @PlayroomChronicles on social media!
