Top Board Game-style Video Games for Local Play

30 January 2026

There’s something magical about gathering around a table with friends, the clatter of dice, the rustle of cards, and that collective cheer (or groan) as someone pulls off a game-winning move. But what if you want that same board game thrill without unpacking boxes or dealing with missing pieces? That’s where board game-style video games for local play come in, serving up the same strategic fun—minus the cleanup.

Whether you're sitting on the couch with your besties, having a family game night, or just want to spice up a lazy Sunday afternoon, these games capture the essence of tabletop gaming while offering the convenience of digital fun.

So, ready to dive into a world where strategy meets screen? Let’s unpack the best board game-style video games that you can enjoy right from your living room.

Why Board Game-style Video Games Are a Hit for Local Play

Before we dive into the list, let’s chat for a sec—why are these digital renditions so popular anyway?

Think about it. They bring together the best of both worlds. You get the brain-teasing, friendship-testing strategy of traditional board games, plus the ease and flair of a video game. No sorting cards, no losing tokens under the couch, and definitely no arguing over the rules (the game handles that part!).

And the cherry on top? Most of them support local multiplayer. That means you can sit side-by-side and laugh, compete, or sabotage each other—all without needing an internet connection.

Alright, now that we agree this combo rocks, let’s get into the good stuff!

1. Overcooked! (1 & 2)

Let’s kick things off with a title that may not look like a board game at first glance, but trust us—it’s got all the same chaotic, cooperative energy.

What’s the game all about?

In Overcooked, you and your friends are chefs in outrageously challenging kitchens. We’re talking moving trucks, lava pits, and ghostly diners. The goal? Prepare dishes and serve them accurately, all while the kitchen falls apart around you.

Why it feels like a board game:
The game thrives on teamwork, communication, and planning—just like a good board game strategy session. You’ll be yelling across the room like you're coordinating a heist.

Local Players: Up to 4
Available On: PC, PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch

2. Catan Universe

Ah, Catan—THE board game that’s ruined and strengthened more friendships than we can count. Thanks to its digital version, you can now hoard sheep virtually too.

What’s the game all about?

If you’ve played the original, you know the drill: build settlements, trade resources, and try to dominate the map without ticking off everyone at the table.

Why it's board game gold:
Well, it is literally a board game turned digital. The beautiful thing? No dice to chase after and no pieces to reset when someone bumps the table.

Local Players: 2 to 4 (with hot seat mode)
Available On: PC, iOS, Android

3. Ticket to Ride

Creating train routes across North America (or Europe, or Asia, depending on the version) sounds simple, but Ticket to Ride turns it into a gloriously competitive adventure.

What’s the game all about?

You collect cards to claim railway routes. The longer the route, the more points you get. Easy to learn, hard to master—just like the best board games.

Why it’s perfect for couch gaming:
Everyone can take short turns, making it fast-paced and engaging. Plus, you can easily pass the controller around or play via touchscreen.

Local Players: 2 to 5
Available On: PC, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch

4. Armello

Think of Armello as what you’d get if Game of Thrones and a fantasy board game had a baby—and then animated that baby beautifully and let you play it.

What’s the game all about?

You play as animal heroes vying for the throne in a cursed kingdom. It mixes RPG elements, turn-based strategy, and card mechanics, all wrapped in a board game-esque format.

Why it’s board game-like:
It uses dice rolls, cards, movement on a board grid, and turn-based strategy. It truly feels like playing a tabletop game with magical flair.

Local Players: 2 to 4 (via hot seat)
Available On: PC, PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch

5. Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime

Stick with us here—this game is as wild and wacky as it sounds.

What’s the game all about?

You and your friends control a spaceship, but each player manages a different station—guns, shields, engine, etc. Coordination is key, or you’ll get blasted by neon space enemies.

Why it gives board game vibes:
Each player has a role, and you’ve got to strategize like crazy. It’s like a cooperative board game with way more lasers.

Local Players: 2 to 4
Available On: PC, PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch

6. Pummel Party

Board game meets battle royale? Yep, that’s Pummel Party for you.

What’s the game all about?

Navigate a digital game board, collect keys, and take out your friends in minigames that range from hilarious to downright brutal. Think Mario Party... but way more chaotic.

What makes it stand out:
Not only is it turn-based and board-driven, but the minigames also add that surprise element. It’s one of the few games where throwing a banana really can ruin someone's day.

Local Players: 1 to 8
Available On: PC

7. Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes

This one’s for the puzzle lovers and the brave-hearted.

What’s the game all about?

One player is trapped with a bomb. The others have the manual to defuse it—but they can’t see the bomb. You’ve got to talk (and listen) fast to survive.

Board game parallel:
It’s all verbal strategy and teamwork. No luck, just brainpower. Plus, it’s the closest you’ll come to feeling like you're in a Mission: Impossible movie.

Local Players: 2+ (you only need one copy of the game)
Available On: PC, PS4, Switch, VR platforms

8. Tabletop Simulator

Okay, this one’s kinda cheating—but also not?

What’s the game all about?

It’s a sandbox tool that lets you play virtual versions of thousands of board games—official and fan-made. Want to play chess, Monopoly, Cards Against Humanity, or even a custom D&D campaign? It’s all in here.

Why it's awesome:
You can flip the table when you lose (literally), and it supports both local and online play.

Local Players: Depends on the game, typically 2 to 10
Available On: PC

9. Carcassonne

Rounding out the classics is Carcassonne, a tile-placement gem with tons of charm.

What’s the game all about?

Place tiles to build cities, roads, and fields. Then place your little meeples (those cute wooden people) to claim your creations and earn points.

Why it’s worth playing digitally:
The game automates scoring, making it smoother and quicker than the physical version. Plus, no tile mix-ups!

Local Players: 2 to 5
Available On: PC, Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch

10. Heave Ho

You and your buds are just... arms. That’s right—wobbly, stretchy arms that need to grab, swing, and sling each other across platforms.

What’s the game all about?

Work together to fling each other across bizarre levels. It’s hilarious, frustrating, and ridiculously fun.

Why it nails the party-game vibe:
Like a great board game, it’s more about the laughter and chaos than the scoreboard.

Local Players: 2 to 4
Available On: PC, Nintendo Switch

Honorable Mentions

Sometimes, a few gems fly just under the radar, but they’re just as fun. Check these out too:

- Ultimate Chicken Horse – Build a level while racing through it. Sabotage is encouraged!
- Throne of Lies – A digital social deduction game perfect for fans of Mafia or Werewolf.
- Ludo King – The classic Ludo experience, perfect for casual couch gaming.

Final Thoughts: Digital Game Nights are the New Board Game Nights

Honestly, board game-style video games have changed how we think about game nights. No setup, no cleanup, and still all the fun. Whether you're into strategy, chaos, cooperation, or a bit of all three, there's a game out there calling your name.

So grab those controllers, call your crew, and get ready for nights filled with laughter, screams, and probably a few “friendly” rivalries.

Who said digital can’t be social?