Ten reasons to love boardgames

1. They’re a great pastime during the cooler winter months when staying indoors is cozy and comfortable. Get your favourite people together, put out some snacks and let the games begin!
2. The atmosphere created when a group plays boardgames is spontaneous and magical. It’s the kind of in-person joy that can’t be replicated or manufactured – it just happens.
3. Playing a boardgame is a social experience where there is opportunity to make lasting memories with family, friends and strangers.
4. There is a game for every mood and every social circle. From quick-thinking games like Spot it! and Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, to longer strategy games like King of Tokyo and Pandemic, there is a game for every occasion.
5. Games bridge the generation gaps. Part of the charm of board games is that they transcend age, which means that they’re a great way for families to bond.
6. Games such as Ticket to Ride offer escapism. Players can immerse themselves in new worlds and different circumstances where they need to think and plan their way to winning, not to mention outsmart their opponents.
7. Challenge and achievement are good for the psyche and self-esteem. Games in which a puzzle needs to be solved, such as in EXIT: the game, offer a healthy dose of challenge that leads to a wonderful sense of accomplishment.
8. Games are relatively affordable compared to other forms of entertainment, and the return on investment is excellent. The beauty of games is that they can live rent-free in your home and be played over and over again.
9. Role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons help to develop emotional intelligence. Players are required to play out a character, giving them the opportunity to see the world from a different perspective.
10. There is a dizzying array of games and editions on the shelves, so there is always something new and exciting to look forward to.

To join a tabletop gaming event follow @unplugyourselfza @unplugza or go to www.unplugyourself.co.za