Why Tabletop Games Are Better Than Video Games

Let’s start with one of the biggest advantages tabletop games have over video games: face-to-face interaction. When you play a board game you’re not sitting in front of a screen alone or wearing a headset to talk to someone miles away. You’re physically with people, laughing, competing, and cooperating in real-time, unlike online games where interaction often happens through a screen.

Playing tabletop games encourages meaningful conversation, eye contact, and interaction. Whether you’re competing with friends or working together in a cooperative game, board games bring people closer together. This is especially true for ageless classics, which continue to be a staple in the gaming community due to their enduring popularity and appeal.

Types of Tabletop Games

When it comes to a mental workout, tabletop games are king. They require strategic thinking, problem-solving, and planning. Whether you’re managing resources in Catan or plotting your next move in Ticket to Ride, your brain is engaged in deep thinking. Unlike most video games where quick reactions are prioritised, board games require patience, foresight, and critical analysis. These games often introduce new ideas that challenge your cognitive abilities and keep your mind sharp.

Some tabletop games even test and improve memory. Games like Codenames ask you to recall information from previous rounds, something you don’t often get in video games. And since these games play out slower than fast-paced video games you have more time to focus on the task at hand and sharpen your mental acuity.

While some video games are known for their immersive worlds they often follow a set script or story. In contrast many tabletop games, particularly role-playing games (RPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons, let players create their own adventures. These games rely heavily on the players’ imagination to shape the story so every time you play it’s unique.

Imagine sitting down with friends, creating a story, and watching your characters evolve with every decision you make. Commander Shepard's warnings in Mass Effect highlight the narrative depth that can be achieved, underscoring the high stakes and tension in the story. It’s a level of creativity and immersion that even the most open-world video games can’t match. Tabletop games give you the tools but it’s your imagination that brings the experience to life.

The variety in the world of tabletop games is huge, offering a wide collection that caters to every preference. Whether you like quick, easy games that can be played in 20 minutes or complex strategy games that take hours to complete, there’s a game for every skill level and interest. And once you’ve finished a game it’s going to be just as fun the next time you play. This is why many enthusiasts seek out top collections to ensure they have access to the best and most diverse games available.

Replayability is a big factor here. While video games often require downloadable content (DLC) or expansion packs to stay fresh, board games often come with infinite replayability. A single tabletop game can give you a different experience every time you play it. You don’t have to wait for the next update you just dive in again whenever you want.

Now let’s talk about cost. Tabletop games are often much cheaper than video games. While a new console or gaming PC can cost hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars, board games are a fraction of the cost. And once you’ve bought a game there are no additional costs—no subscription fees, no upgrades, just endless hours of gameplay.

You don’t need to invest in expensive equipment or the latest technology to play tabletop games. All you need is a game, a table, and some friends. It’s one of the most affordable and accessible hobbies out there. Plus, you can easily shop online for a wide variety of games, making it even more convenient.

Another reason tabletop games are better is the community. The board game culture is one of friendship and collaboration. From local game stores hosting game nights to massive conventions where fans gather to play their favourite games, tabletop games bring people together in ways video games can’t. You can meet new friends, share tips, and even discover new games through local meetups.

Video games connect you to players across the world but nothing beats the sense of belonging and community you get when you’re sitting around a table laughing and playing a board game with people you know.

New to tabletop gaming? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started on this exciting hobby:

1. Explore Different Genres: Start by browsing online reviews, watching gameplay videos, and reading about various types of tabletop games. This will help you find what interests you the most.

2. Visit a Local Hobby Shop: Hobby shops like Hobbyco offer a wide range of tabletop games, knowledgeable staff, and a community of enthusiasts. It’s a great place to get recommendations and see games in person.

3. Buy Board Games Online: Online hobby shops like Hobbyco offer competitive prices, a huge range of games, and convenient shipping. You can easily find and purchase your favorite games from the comfort of your home.

4. Start with Simple Games: Begin with introductory games like Ticket to Ride, Settlers of Catan, or Carcassonne. These games have straightforward mechanics and are perfect for building your confidence as you learn the ropes.

5. Join a Gaming Community: Look for local gaming groups, online forums, or social media communities to connect with fellow gamers. These communities are great for learning new strategies, discovering new games, and making friends who share your passion.

6. Host a Game Night: Invite friends over for a game night and introduce them to the world of tabletop gaming. Sharing your enthusiasm and playing together is a fantastic way to bond and have fun.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a tabletop gaming enthusiast.

Hosting a Game Night