The best board games for bored families
What better time to enjoy playing a board game together than the stupefying fuzziness of the Christmas period? But, before you blow the dust of the Scrabble set, why not consider something a little newer?
These six board games might all be 21st century creations, but they're still good old-fashioned fun.
Whether you like strategy or storytelling, these are bound to help beat cabin fever during Christmas and New Year. Shall we play?
What is it? A much-loved family game that's all about building your own railway network across 1900s Europe.
Best for: 2-5 players ages 8 and up.
How to play: As lovers of all things continental, the second installment in the Ticket to Ride series is our pick and it comes with extra elements, like tunnels, ferries and stations. It's simple to learn but fun to master, and still only takes 5 minutes for a new player to learn how to play. You can also buy a Scandinavian and USA version.
How do I win? Balance blocking others rail routes with building your own. This is a strategy game.