11 Modern Tabletop Games Perfect for Your Next Game Night

Remember the thrill of flipping the final card, claiming a hard-fought victory, or sharing laughs over a perfectly-timed joke—just some of the magic you find around a tabletop packed with friends. Modern board gaming has come a long way from the roll-and-move simplicity of childhood classics. Today's top titles are packed with clever twists, creative storytelling, and genuinely fresh experiences designed for every kind of player and game night mood. Whether you're looking to break the ice at a party, outwit your fiercest rivals, or team up to save the world, there's a game that's won the hearts of both die-hard hobbyists and absolute beginners. We've handpicked 11 of the best modern tabletop games—spanning beloved blockbusters, overlooked gems, and a mix of genres—to make sure your next game night isn't just good, but legendary. Ready to discover something new (or finally try the hit everyone’s buzzing about)? Let’s shuffle up, deal out, and get your next gaming session rolling.

1. Codenames – The Ultimate Party Word Game

Picture two teams, a grid of secret words, and the race to find your side's hidden agents before your rivals do—with just a single-word clue each turn. That’s Codenames, the modern party classic that’s easy to teach, uproariously fun, and full of “how did you even guess that?!” moments. Players split into two teams, each with a spymaster giving coded word clues trying to lead teammates to their own secret agents on the grid. Get clever, but not too clever—one wrong guess could hand everything to the other side! With no limit on team sizes and a simple setup, Codenames is a winner for families, friend groups, or even ice-breakers at work. Hilarious, deeply replayable, and usually finishing in under 30 minutes, this is one party game that truly earns its legendary status. Want a fresh take? Variations like Codenames: Pictures and Codenames: Duet dial up the challenge and variety, so you’ll never run out of ways to play.