The best board games and wargaming gifts for under the tree

Are you looking for the perfect gift for a board game player, a modeler, a wargaming fan, or just someone with a playful soul? You've come to the right place!

The selection of board games is huge. It can be quite overwhelming for a less experienced Santa. That's why we've picked out a few interesting titles that are guaranteed to be a hit.

For the whole family

The Desítka trivia game series consists of very simple party games based on questions and answers. They offer a wide range of topics, from nature, food, and drink, to detailed questions from the world of Harry Potter, or lighter versions for younger players. The system is simple. Players take turns answering, and if you get it wrong, you're out. Nothing complicated. Desítka is an ideal quick game that's easy to pack for travel.

For intermediate players, we recommend Potion Explosion or Cascadia. In Potion Explosion, you try to brew the best magic potion by collecting colored marbles. The game is based on color combinations, randomness, and a bit of luck. Cascadia offers a trip into the beautiful nature of the American Pacific Northwest. Can you correctly combine terrain tiles and animal tokens? Both games impress with their imaginative design and easy-to-learn rules.

For two players

This year's new release Radlands has quickly become one of the best dueling games of recent years. Two commanders of post-apocalyptic gangs fight over water. You'll recruit new followers to your camp and battle your opponent. Cards combine with each other, and a single mistake means a major setback. Radlands is simple and, thanks to its original art, a very good-looking game.

The second edition of the cult board game War of the Ring is a heavier caliber. Many Lord of the Rings fans will know it well. On a large map of Middle-earth, the forces of good and evil clash. Will the Fellowship manage to destroy the One Ring, or will Mordor finally triumph? War of the Ring is an epic experience that can be played with up to four players, but it's definitely best with two. It offers hours of fun. You'll just need a slightly larger table.

For advanced players

Destinies is a successful fantasy story-driven game. Players embark on a dark journey, trying to fulfill their destiny. You'll fight, collect items, complete quests, and explore. Everything is managed by an app that skillfully enhances the gaming experience.

For fans of the cult video game series Heroes of Might and Magic, there is Mage Knight: Ultimate Edition by Czech author Vlaada Chvátil. It's epic, monstrous, and addictive. We haven't seen a box with so much content in a long time! Mage Knight is challenging and complex, but thanks to its great design, it has quickly gained cult status.

If you're a sci-fi fan, don't miss the standalone sequel to the cult game Nemesis titled Lockdown. It's arguably one of the best cooperative games out there right now. If you need more convincing, try reading our review.

Game boxes aren't everything

In addition to board games, you'll find a wide range of board game accessories and add-ons in our shop. You can upgrade your game with a clever insert to keep your components organized. Are you missing tokens, dice, or card sleeves? No problem. And if you already have so many board games that you might get kicked out of the house, you can pack everything for your travels in special bags and backpacks.

For modelers

Do you have a tinkerer at home who can make a nativity scene, including the animals, out of a stone and a piece of string? Get them the right equipment. The hit of this year is the Modeler's LED Lamp from Green Stuff World. Thanks to its arched design, it beautifully illuminates every model from both sides and from above. The LED light array is fully dimmable, produces a pleasant white light, and minimizes glare and shadows.

Every modeler or miniature painter will confirm that you can never have enough paints, brushes, or basing and scenery supplies. The Army Painter: Mega Brush Set is a great value set of high-quality brushes for every occasion. You'll find brushes for the tiniest details as well as brushes for advanced techniques. What would a beautifully painted miniature be without a matching base? The Army Painter Battlefields Basing Set contains basic grass, stones, snow, and glue. With a little imagination, you can easily create a base that everyone will envy.

Now that we've chosen the right lighting and equipment, we just need something to paint. The Gamemaster: Character Paint Set is the perfect opportunity to get started with this beautiful hobby. The box includes 19 basic paints, a wash, a brush, and five nice fantasy miniatures.

From painting, it's just a small step into the world of large miniature games. Warhammer 40000: Recruit Edition is an affordable starter set for two players and the ideal way to enter this impressive world. In addition to two basic armies of miniatures, the box contains everything you need to play, including rules and cards.

If you're looking for more Christmas inspiration or further tips for playful gifts, take a look at our special selection of popular and best-selling board games.

author Karel Krajča