History of Board Games and Top 3 Board Games 2025

Board games have always been a way for people to connect, learn, and have fun together. From ancient civilizations to modern family or friend game nights, these activities have evolved significantly, adapting to the times and preferences.

Joc de societate antic

Catan

A look into the past: the origins of board games

The first evidence of the existence of board games dates back to the 3rd millennium BC. BC . A notable example is the Royal Game of Ur , discovered in Mesopotamia, considered one of the oldest known games. In ancient Egypt, Senet was popular and had religious connotations, often being placed in tombs to accompany the soul into the afterlife.

As societies have evolved, so have games. In the Middle Ages, games like Chess became symbols of strategy and intelligence. The 20th century brought an explosion in the popularity of board games, with titles like Monopoly and Risk capturing the attention of the general public.

In 2025, the board game enthusiast community in Romania is continuously growing, and preferences are diversifying. According to the "Game of the Year in Romania" ranking of 2025, here are the three most appreciated games:

1. Codenames

A word and deduction game, ideal for groups. Players must guess the correct words based on clues provided by teammates, avoiding the "assassin" who can end the game prematurely. The simplicity of the rules and the captivating dynamics have made it a favorite of game nights.

2. Carcassonne

A tile-placement game where players build medieval landscapes, completing cities, roads, and monasteries. Strategy and planning are essential to score points and win.

3. Through the Ages: A New Story of Civilization

A complex civilization game where players develop societies from ancient times to the modern era. By managing resources, science, and armies, every decision influences the evolution of your civilization. It is appreciated for its strategic depth and historical themes.

Conclusion

From ancient games with spiritual meanings to modern titles that combine strategy, creativity and social interaction, board games have come a long way. In Romania, interest in board games is on the rise, and the diversity of offerings satisfies all tastes.

We invite you to discover these games and many more in our bookstore, where the passion for reading and playing harmoniously combine.