The ongoing pandemic has left us all feeling pretty helpless in a period of extended self-isolation and quarantine. Constantly stressing about the things we can’t control isn’t good for anyone, so we’ve compiled

a list of fun survival-themed games for you to enjoy with your friends and family! 

Name: Pandemic

Players: 2-4

Role-play as an employee of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and work with your teammates to develop vaccines for four separate diseases. Each member of your group will be assigned a unique speciality, emphasising the importance of communication and teamwork in order to win the game. But be warned: there are a seemingly endless number of game-losing scenarios, so stay vigilant for the full duration of your playthrough!

Name: Reign of Cthulhu

Players: 2-4

Discover how far your sanity can be stretched in this mind-bending game of perseverance. With the help of his devoted cultists, Cthulhu – AKA, ‘High Priest of the Great Old Ones’ – is wreaking havoc across Earth. The cosmic entity’s arrival will all but confirm the end of the world as we know it; work with your brave teammates to ensure this doesn’t happen!

Name: Fall of Rome

Players: 1-5

Repel the invading hordes of Anglo-Saxons, Vandals and Huns to maintain the longevity of the greatest empire the world has ever seen! This is one for all the history buffs out there, as you and your friends will be transported back to a time of unprecedented military conquest. Recruit allies, fortify strongholds and play the game of thrones in your attempt to protect the glory of Rome. Fail, and risk losing it all!

Name: Ravine

Players: 3-6

Picture the scene: against all odds, you’ve somehow survived a deadly plane crash. What should you do next to ensure your survival wasn’t just a fluke? Ravine is a strategic and cooperative card game that requires teamwork and the ability to think critically in your hunt for food, shelter and safety. Choose your steps wisely, as each step you take could intensify your impending madness. Venture into the ravine at your own risk…

Name: Risk

Players: 2-6

Created in 1957 by French filmmaker Albert Lamorrise, Risk would go on to be one of the most popular and definitive board games in history. While every game we’ve discussed so far has concerned teamwork and cooperation, Risk requires ruthlessness from each individual player, as you fight to capture territory while fending off rival armies. A single playthrough can last several hours – perfect for quarantine!