On 3 February, the Board Game Arena website announced the awards for 2025. You can find the original article here. Some of the award-winning and nominated games are also available in our shop.
Games were selected in the following categories: best 2-player game, best casual game, best classic game, best game for connoisseurs, best animal-themed game; they also announced their pick for the best game overall.
So let’s see which games made the shortlist and which were nominated!
Best 2-player game: Splendor Duel
Renaissance merchants compete to collect treasures to satisfy the nobility. With its blend of tactical depth and elegant simplicity, Splendor Duel has proven why it’s the perfect choice for competitive pairs looking to test their skills.
Other nominated games: Altered, Pocket Cats, Battle Spirits Saga
Best Game for Connoisseurs: Darwin’s Journey
This year’s most complex and rewarding experience is Darwin’s Journey. Players have praised its tactical decisions and endless replayability. It’s the sort of game that leaves you pondering your strategy long after you’ve finished playing. A real gem for dedicated board game enthusiasts!
Other nominated games: Terraforming Mars, Age of Innovation, River of Gold
Best Animal-Themed Game: Wolves
Establish the dominance of your wolf pack over the course of the lunar cycle! The clever action-selection mechanism is just right for animal-themed games. A must-play!
Other nominated games: Mountain Goats, New York Zoo, Cat in the Box
Best Classic Game: Harmonies
Create your own landscape and habitats to welcome the animals. This wonderful game offers just the right level of challenge, whilst remaining accessible to a wide audience. If you haven’t played it yet, now’s the time to dive in and see what all the fuss is about. It’s coming our way soon too.
Other nominated games: Cartographers, Middle Ages, Looot
Best Casual Game: Castle Combo
Attract villagers and townspeople to create a thriving neighbourhood. This light-hearted game, which combines simple rules with a highly dynamic system, has been attracting players, families and friends all year round. Perfect for anyone who just wants to sit back and have fun!
Other nominated games: Captain Flip, Super Mega Lucky Box, Flowers
Special Award: Board Game Arena’s Choice: Nana Tori Dori
A light-hearted, beautiful and truly enjoyable experience, whether played at the table or online.
