Catan Junior
Ages 6 and up
The kid version of Catan. Build hideouts and trade with pirates. The perfect first strategy game.
Gift it to: families with young kids.
Christmas Gift Guide 2026
Family game night, easiest to hardest
Start at the top with little ones and work your way down as everyone grows into bigger games.
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Shop by budget:
Rook
Card game
A classic trick-taking card game played in partners. Easy to learn, and it brings out the competitive side in everyone.
Gift it to: the family that grew up playing cards around the kitchen table.
Carcassonne
Ages 7 and up
Lay tiles to build a countryside of cities, roads and fields. Simple turns with plenty of room for strategy.
Gift it to: the family ready for its first real board game.
Azul: Queen's Garden
Ages 10 and up
The best version of Azul, especially with two players. Beautiful pieces and more strategy than the original.
Gift it to: anyone who likes puzzles and pretty things.
Wingspan
Ages 14 and up
Collect birds that build off each other turn after turn. One of the most beautiful games on our shelf.
Gift it to: the family that's ready for a step up.
Everdell
Ages 13 and up
Build a city of woodland critters over four seasons. The most involved game on this list, and worth it.
Gift it to: the family that's played everything else.
Nothing in this price range here. Try another budget or another guide.
