Trying to find board games for 11 year olds can be tricky since there are so many options available to choose from. If you were feeling overwhelmed by the number of games available, you’ll be glad to hear that you’re in the right place.
We’ve researched and reviewed what the best board games for 11 year olds have to offer. All you need to do is take a look below to learn more. A buying guide section is also available at the end to provide you with additional information.
Our List of the Top 11 Year Old Games for Fun & Learning
Watch Ya’ Mouth Family Edition
Summary
This Watch Ya Mouth Family Edition game is a ton of fun for the entire family to play for hours on end. We liked how it can be played by anywhere between 3 and 10 people. This makes it an exciting game for kids to play in larger groups.
As a result, you can expect your child’s social skills to improve greatly. In addition to this, the game involves splitting players up into teams, which provides children with the chance to develop their teamwork abilities.
The game involves wearing mouthpieces and saying phrases which your team then has to try and guess. There is a total of 143 phrases available, so you can be sure to have a blast playing this game for a while.
Pros
- Improves social skills
- Develops teamwork abilities
- Fun family game
Cons
- Some find the mouthpieces are too large
What makes this game stand out?
You can be sure that this game will get everyone laughing in no time due to how funny you sound while wearing the mouthpieces. It’s also a game that can involve lots of people, which is awesome for your child’s social skills.
Googly Eyes Game
Summary
The Googly Eyes Game involves players being split up into teams. One person from the team has to wear the goggles which alter their vision while trying to draw something. Their team then has to try and guess what the’re drawing before the time is up.
Therefore, you can expect this game to have a positive impact on your child’s social skills, as well as their ability to work well in teams. The vision altering glasses are a unique game element which makes trying to draw pictures harder and more entertaining.
We also liked how this game is excellent for encouraging kids to think with more creativity. The rules are easy to grasp to ensure that you can start playing right away.
Pros
- Promotes creative thinking
- Develops teamwork abilities
- Improves social skills
Cons
- The lenses aren’t as durable as some were hoping
What makes this game stand out?
The googly eye glasses that are available with this game are a ton of fun and will have everyone laughing while trying to guess what’s being drawn.
Classic Risk
Summary
Risk is a strategic war game that has been around for a long time. This is the latest version of the game. The object of the game is for you to defeat the armies of the other players and take over the world. This version of the game comes with improved mission cards, 12 secret mission cards, dice, playing pieces and the game board. A roll of the dice determines whether you win a battle or lose a battle.
Pros
- The secret missions helps to shorten the game
- Many users like the new design
Cons
- Not the same quality as the 1998 version of the game
What makes this stand out?
This is a fun war strategy game where it takes both strategy and luck to be the winner. A lot of the game depends on the decisions you make on whether to attack an enemy or build up your forces.
Wonder Forge Disney Villainous Strategy Board Game
Summary
The Wonder Forge Disney Villainous Strategy Board Game can be played by up to 6 players. This makes it an excellent choice for improving your child’s social skills. We also liked how the game comes with absolutely everything you need to start playing right away.
It includes 180 villain cards, 6 villain mover, 6 boards, 84 tokens, 90 fate cards, 6 reference cards, 1 cauldron, and a set of easy-to-follow instructions.We were impressed with how this game requires children to use their strategic thinking skills in order to try and win. Each villain character has their own unique set of abilities which kids can use to try and figure out how to best utilize them.
In addition to this, the Disney theme is something that is sure to get kids excited. It includes a range of well-known Disney characters, such as Maleficent, Captain Hook, Jafar, Prince John, and more!
Pros
- Improves social skills
- Develops strategic thinking
- Fun Disney characters available
Cons
- Some people aren’t fans of the character designs
What makes this game stand out?
This game is a lot of fun for kids who are fans of Disney since it features a wide variety of characters which they love. Moreover, the game is awesome for improving your child’s strategic thinking skills.
Harry Potter Hogwarts Battle Cooperative Deck Building Game
Summary
This Harry Potter Hogwarts Battle Game enables children to play as some of their favorite characters from the franchise. They can use these characters to come up with spells, find magical items, and recruit allies in an attempt to try and save Hogwarts.
The game comes with 140 cards and a total of 7 adventures which are available at different difficulty levels. We were impressed with this feature as it enables kids to challenge themselves the more they play the game. In addition to the cards and adventures, there are also 252 other cards, 4 dice, game rules, game boxes, boards, chip pieces, and villain control tokens.
So, you can be sure that your kids have plenty to play with and be occupied for hours on end!
Pros
- Varying difficulty levels
- Improves social skills
- Fun Harry Potter design
Cons
- The game can get a little complicated at times
What makes this game stand out?
This is an excellent game that gives kids the opportunity to challenge themselves cognitively due to the increasing difficulty levels that are available.
Wizards Wanted
Summary
Each player in this game tries to become the most famous wizard in the kingdom. Players perform spells in villages, gathering pixie charms, purchasing pixie dust, and gaining royal seals. The game comes with 4 game boards, 4 wizard pawns, and 215 plus pieces as well as instructions.
Pros
- Great strategy game that is fun and slightly different
- Simple to play once you understand the rules
Cons
- There are a lot of rules so it takes some time to learn to play
What makes this stand out?
This is a fun game with a lot of tokens for kids to collect as they go around the board performing spells and gathering charms. This one is so much fun for 11 year olds and the entire family!
PlayMonster 5 Second Rule Game
Summary
The PlayMonster 5 Second Rule Game comes with over 150 cards and can be played by 3 or more players. With such a wide variety of cards available, you can be sure that your kids will have a blast playing with this game for a while.
Furthermore, since it’s a group game, you can expect your child’s social skills to improve as well. We liked how the game has a fast pace to it as it keeps children on their toes and ensures that they’re able to improve their cognitive thinking.
The game works by one person picking a card and reading the topic. They then start the 5 second timer and they’re given 5 seconds to name 3 things that relate to that topic. This results in some funny responses which is sure to get everyone laughing.
Pros
- Encourages creative thinking
- Develops concentration
- Fun fast paced game
Cons
- Some of the questions can be a little difficult for kids
What makes this game stand out?
We liked how this game has a fast pace to it as it helps kids to concentrate and think more creatively while being under pressure.
Spontuneous – The Song Game – Sing It or Shout It
Summary
Spontuneous – The Song Game, Sing It or Shout It is a super fun party game that can be played by 4-10 people. It involves splitting the players up into teams, which encourages children to improve their teamwork abilities, as well as their social skills.
The game then works by one person on the team saying a single word which the players then have to try and think of a song that includes that word. This is an exciting way to get kids to think more creatively.
Once they think they have an answer, they can simply sing or shout out the song. Therefore, you can feel confident in knowing that this is a reliable party game.
Pros
- Develops teamwork abilities
- Improves social skills
- Exciting party game
Cons
- The rules could be improved
What makes this game stand out?
Kids have a lot of fun playing this game in groups and improving their social skills and teamwork abilities.
World of Disney Eye Found It
Summary
This World of Disney Eye Found It Board game comes with a board game that’s 6 feet in size and is split up into 3 different sections. Therefore, it’s a pretty large board which provides you with plenty of room to play.
The game also comes with 4 movers, 10 Mouse-Ear tokens, a spinner, sand timer, 30 search cards, and a set of instructions which are easy to follow. Therefore, you can start playing without any delays.
It can be played by 2-6 players which provides children with a great opportunity to improve their social skills. Furthermore, we liked how the game involves players working together in order to try and complete the game. As a result, their teamwork abilities are able to develop well.
Pros
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Develops teamwork abilities
- Improves social skills
Cons
- The larger board can prove problematic when trying to play on tables
What makes this game stand out?
This is an awesome game that involves players working together in order to try and finish the game. Therefore, their social skills and ability to work in teams are improved.
Aggravation
Summary
Aggravation is a fun game that comes with 30 marbles made out of plastic, a die, game board, and a set of instructions. So, everything you need to begin playing right away is included.
The game can also be played by 2-6 players, which provides children with the chance to play in small groups and improve their social skills. It works by each player trying to capture their opponent’s piece which is achieved by landing on the space that they’re on. This is called “Aggravating”.
There is also a surprising amount of strategy involved in this game too. You can try to take shortcuts or super shortcuts in order to try and make your way across the board faster. This is awesome for developing your child’s ability to think more strategically.
Pros
- Develops strategic thinking
- Improves social skills
- Fun game rules
Cons
- Game board is thinner than some were expecting
What makes this game stand out?
Kids have a blast playing this game in small groups and trying to capture each other’s pieces. It’s excellent for their social skills and strategic thinking.
Ravensburger Labyrinth
Summary
Ravensburger’s Labyrinth is a popular board game which kids and adults can have a lot of fun playing together. It comes with 24 treasure cards, 34 maze cards, 4 playing pieces, and a playing board. There are also a set of great instructions available which are easy to follow.
The games last for around 20-30 minutes, which is perfect for an 11 year old. It ensure that they remain engaged and are able to focus without getting bored easily. It can be played by 2-4 people which is a great opportunity for kids to work on improving their social skills.
Pros
- Develops concentration
- Improves social skills
- Great instructions
Cons
- Some find that the game pieces don’t move as smoothly as they’d like
What makes this game stand out?
This game is a great idea as a gift for 11 year old boys and girls since it is lot of fun. It encourages children to improve their social skills, while also helping them to learn how to focus better for 20-30 minutes.
Blokus Strategy Game (New Edition)
Summary
This Blokus game is super easy to learn to ensure that kids are able to start playing without any hassle. The game works by each player having 21 pieces which they then have to place on the game board by taking it in turns. Each of their pieces must be touching another pieces on the corner that has the same color.
So, kids play the game trying to secure certain sections of the board. However, the fun happens when players start trying to get in on your section and make it difficult for you to put all of your pieces down.
The game ends when no more pieces can be placed on to the board. Whoever is left with the smallest number of pieces remaining is the winner. So, this is an excellent game for improving your child’s strategic thinking skills. Moreover, since it involves playing in groups, your child’s social skills will be able to improve as well.
Pros
- Develops strategic thinking
- Improves social skills
- Easy instructions
Cons
- Some of the pieces are lighter than some were hoping for
What makes this game stand out?
We liked how this game encourages children to use their strategic thinking skills in order to try and beat each other. It’s also awesome for improving their social skills too.
PlayMonster Stratego Original
Summary
This Stratego Original game by PlayMonster can be played by 2 people and it involves each players comes up with strategies in order to capture their opponent’s flag, while also protecting their own.
As a result, it’s highly effective at developing your child’s strategic thinking skills. We liked how children are able to come up with plans on how to try and outwit each other in order to win.
We were also impressed with how they’ve designed the board with a Napoleonic theme with two armies available. They have spy pieces on each side which is another fantastic game element that children have been loving.
Pros
- Improves social skills
- Develops strategic thinking
- Fun design
Cons
- The stickers are prone to peeling off quicker than some expected
What makes this game stand out?
If you were looking for a unique game that enables kids to use their strategic thinking skills, this Stratego game would be a great choice!
Splendor
Summary
Splendor is a game that can be played by 2-4 people, which means children are given the chance to work on their social skills. We liked how each game lasts for around 30 minutes. This is a good amount of time to ensure that kids don’t get too bored – instead, they’re able to focus better.
The game comes with 40 tokens which are available in different colors, 90 development cards, and a wide range of difficulty level tiles. Therefore, kids have all the parts they need to start playing right away.
We found that children are able to use their logical and strategic thinking skills while playing this game. Moreover, the variety of difficulty level tiles that are available ensure that the game is more accessible to children.
Pros
- Different difficulty level cards available
- Improves social skills
- Develops strategic thinking abilities
Cons
- Some of the pieces are prone to wearing down over time
What makes this game stand out?
Kids have a blast playing this game and putting their strategic thinking skills to the test. The length of the games is perfect and the different difficulty level tiles available gives kids more to challenge themselves with.
Buying Guide on Board Games for 11 Year Olds
When it comes to finding fun games for 11 year olds, you will have seen that there are a ton of options available online. That’s why we’ve narrowed it down to the best games. However, you may still be feeling a little unsure of how to go about picking a game that your child would like the best.
If so, don’t panic. This buying guide section includes additional information that will have you feeling more confident about picking the top board games for your child.
Games by Gender
An important factor to take into consideration before committing to a purchase of a board game is the gender of the child that you’re buying the game for. While most 11 year old boys and girls are more than happy to play most of these games together, there are certain games that may stick out more to girls than boys, and vice versa.
To learn more about what these differences could be, take a quick look below.
Boys
One of the best board games for 11 year old boys in this review is the Stratego Original by PlayMonster. This is largely due to the design of the game and how it involves armies. These themes are traditionally ones that boys are more inclined to playing with than girls.
Girls
The Disney Eye Found It is among one of the top girl games for 11 year olds due to the Disney theme. It includes characters, such as princes and princesses, which they already adore. Therefore, you can be sure that this game will get them super excited and be a great gift idea. Remember though, not all girls prefer games like this so anything in this article would be suitable depending on the particular girls preferences.
Types of Board Games
After reading through our review of the best board games for 11 year olds, you will have seen that there are a range of different types available. If you wanted a little more clarification on what these various kinds of board games are and what makes them different from one another, check out the section below.
Strategic
We’ve included a number of board games that require kids to use their strategic thinking skills. This is because kids who are 11 years old may be at the stage where they’re looking to play games that stimulate them more cognitively.
These types of games ensure that children are able to improve their ability to remain focus while trying to think strategically in order to win.
Party
The Sing It or Shout It Game is a super exciting option that kids have a ton of fun playing together in larger groups. This is what makes it such a fantastic party game. We also like how it encourages children to work on their social skills too.
Teamwork
There are a range of kids games 11 and up that we’ve reviewed here that have a teamwork element to them. These types of games are fantastic for 11 year olds as it teaches them the skill of how to work effectively in teams.
It’s a skill which will come in handy at school and later on in life as well.
Fast Paced Games
The 5 Second Rule game by PlayMonster is the fasted paced game in this review. It’s an exciting game which keeps players on their toes which is an effective way to help them concentrate better.
Due to the fast paced nature of the game, children also have to use their creative thinking skills in order to attempt to come up with answers in time.
Final Thoughts on the Best Games for 11 Year Olds
So, those were among the top fun games for 11 year olds. Hopefully, you now have a much better idea of the kinds of games that kids have been enjoying recently. Our buying guide section, just above, is also a great tool which you can use to feel confident on the game that you decide on for your child.
There are a range of different games available in this review to ensure that you have a good selection to choose from!
