Step aside, backyard grilling and DIY projects – it’s time for dads to conquer history, one board game at a time! If you are looking for the perfect board game to pull your history-loving dad into some family-friendly competition, then this list has what you need.
We have assembled 14 fantastic board games based on real-world history. These strategy games are sure to provide a satisfying challenge and offer a strategic opportunity for your pops to demonstrate their skills. Whether your father is into the ancient war or American politics, we have you covered.
Historic Board Games Your Dad Will Love
Shogun
Shogun is a classic novel that is loved by many Dads. It also happens to be the name of a classic board game based on the history of feudal Japan. So if your dad enjoys the novel, then this board game is a great way to dive into the culture and atmosphere.
The ultimate goal of the game is to earn points towards claiming the title of Shogun. The gameplay has a lot of different options for players to pursue each round. Each round you’ll strategically expand your domain, deciding where and how to deploy your moves each round.
Key to your conquest are battles, brought to life by the unique Battle Tower. Each player’s “troops” are entered into the tower, and Victor is determined by the “troops” that come out of the tower.
Step into this historical era and strategize your way to victory!
Shogon Game Specs:
- Number of Players: 3-5
- Approximate Time to Play: 120-180 minutes (2-3 hours)
- Approximate Time to Learn: 30-60 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 12+
Trajan
It is said all men think about Ancient Rome. If your dad desires a complex challenge with a Roman aesthetic, Trajan is the perfect game for him.
The game is set in ancient Rome during the reign of Emperor Trajan. The mechanics of Trajan are known for being intricate and involve a unique combination of a Mancala-style action selection system and various other strategic elements.
Players take on the roles of Roman citizens seeking to increase their influence and power in different areas of Roman society. The game involves various activities like navigating the political structures of the Senate, engaging in trade, military conquests, and construction projects.
Trajan is well-regarded for its depth, strategic possibilities, and the need for players to plan ahead while adapting to changing situations. It’s often praised for its complexity and replayability, making it a favorite among fans of strategy board games.
Trajan Game Specs:
- Number of Players: 2-4
- Approximate Time to Play: 60-120+ minutes
- Approximate Time to Learn: 30-60 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 12+
1961 – A Cold War Card Game
If launching missiles at one another via a Cold War-themed card game isn’t manly enough for you, then I don’t know what is. 1961 is a lesser-known game that puts you right into the midst of Cold War-era tension.
Gameplay revolves around drawing cards, and playing them as Actions, as Buildings, or as Supply. The heart of the game lies in launching missiles, a dramatic decision, as it could trigger enemy countermeasures.
Strategic and historically immersive, 1961 offers an exciting journey into the Cold War era, ideal for dads who love games where every decision could change the course of history. Get ready for a game night filled with suspense, strategy, and the thrill of global diplomacy.
Dominion
Dominion is the ultimate deck-building game that turns fatherly wisdom into strategic empire-building. Start with a basic set of cards and cleverly acquire more to expand your domain. It’s all about making smart choices, much like dodging those rogue Legos on the living room floor.
Each game of Dominion offers a fresh challenge, mirroring the ever-changing adventures of dad life. Outsmart your family by mixing the right blend of treasure, action, and victory cards. Perfect for dads who love a touch of strategy with their fun, this game promises a night of laughter and light-hearted kingdom conquest. Who says you need a real crown to be king?
Dominion Game Specs:
- Number of Players: 2-4
- Approximate Time to Play: 30 minutes
- Approximate Time to Learn: 15-30 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 13+
Eketorp
Is your dad a big fan of Vikings (not the kind in Minnesota)? Does he like to build things? Look no further than Eketorp perfect for dads who relish strategy and a bit of competitive fun.
In Eketorp, players become Viking chieftains, each on a mission to build the strongest fort. It’s a game that brilliantly combines resource gathering and strategic planning. Your dad will need to collect wood, stone, and warriors, all while keeping an eye on his opponents who are vying for the same resources.
Each round is a thrilling mix of building defenses and maybe launching a strategic attack or two. Think of it as the board game equivalent of juggling family vacation plans, but with more excitement and less stress.
This game is an excellent pick for dads who enjoy a little thinking and a lot of action in their games. So, grab Eketorp for a game night that’s sure to bring out his inner Viking leader and create some fun, memorable family moments. Ready for a night of laughter and lighthearted rivalry? “Eketorp” is the game to choose!
Eketorp Game Specs:
- Number of Players: 3-6
- Approximate Time to Play: 60-90 minutes
- Approximate Time to Learn: 20-30 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 10+
Age of Civilization Strategy Card Game
If your old man is a fan of history and enjoys a good strategy challenge. Age of Civilization Strategy Card Game could be the perfect choice for a game night with him.
In this compact card game, players guide entire civilizations through the annals of history. It’s ideal for dads who appreciate a blend of historical intrigue and strategic depth. He’ll be navigating through different eras, making crucial decisions that shape the progress of his civilization.
This game is a great fit for dads who love thinking a few steps ahead and enjoy games with a historical twist. So, if you’re looking for a game that’s compact, easy to learn, yet full of strategic depth, Age of Civilization is the way to go. Get ready to travel through history and enjoy a night of strategic fun with your dad!
Age of Civilization Game Specs:
- Number of Players: 1-4
- Approximate Time to Play: 30-60 minutes
- Approximate Time to Learn: 15-30 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 14+
The Oregon Trail: Journey to Willamette Valley
Depending on the age of your father, he may have enjoyed the old computer game Oregon Trail. He can relive the elementary school nostalgia by diving into the Oregon Trail board game.
In this game, players lead their pioneer families through the perilous Oregon Trail, facing classic pioneer obstacles. It’s a wonderful blend of historical authenticity and strategic gameplay. You will have to make decisions on gathering resources, managing hazards, and choosing the safest path, all while racing to stake a claim in the fertile Willamette Valley.
The Oregon Trail: Journey to Willamette Valley is ideal for dads who appreciate history, enjoy strategic planning, and love the idea of leading their family on an adventurous trail. So, get ready for a journey filled with excitement, challenge, and a dash of nostalgia, perfect for a memorable game night with your dad.
The Oregon Trail: Journey to Willamette Valley Game Specs:
- Number of Players: 2-4
- Approximate Time to Play: 60-90 minutes
- Approximate Time to Learn: 30-45 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 14+
7 Wonders Board Game
7 Wonders is a must-try for your next family game night. This game is perfect for dads who like to think big and enjoy a bit of competitive building.
In 7 Wonders, players take on the role of leaders of ancient civilizations, building architectural marvels and developing their cities. The game is known for its rich historical themes and strategic depth. Your dad will love managing resources, advancing scientific discoveries, establishing commercial routes, and, of course, constructing an architectural wonder.
The game’s balance of strategy and accessibility makes it a great fit for dads who enjoy a challenge but also appreciate a game that’s easy to understand and play. It’s like being a city planner and a historian all in one, with the added fun of a little friendly competition.
7 Wonders Game Specs:
- Number of Players: 2-7
- Approximate Time to Play: 30-60 minutes
- Approximate Time to Learn: 30-40 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 10+
Diplomacy Cooperative Board Game
For dads who fancy themselves as master strategists and diplomats, Diplomacy Cooperative Board Game is a must-play.” This classic game is renowned for its intense player interaction and deep strategic play.
Set in the early 20th century on the brink of World War I, players in Diplomacy represent major European powers. The objective? Dominate Europe through savvy negotiation, strategic planning, and tactical moves. It’s an ideal blend of historical context and complex gameplay, perfect for history-buff dads.
The game is a dynamic mix of forming and breaking alliances and strategizing like a true leader. It’s akin to chess but with the added twist of political maneuvering. Patience and strategic thinking are key, just like when tackling a complex family project.
Diplomacy is excellent for dads who thrive on games that require communication and foresight. It’s a game of thinking ahead and adapting, offering a challenging and engaging board game night filled with historical intrigue and perhaps a little family rivalry.
- Number of Players: 2-7
- Approximate Time to Play: 180-360 minutes (3-6 hours)
- Approximate Time to Learn: 45-60 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 12+
Imhotep Builder of Egypt
For dads who thought building a deck is fun, wait until they try building a pyramid, “Imhotep: Builder of Egypt” is a fantastic pick. This game transports players to ancient Egypt, where they become architects competing to construct the most impressive monuments.
In “Imhotep,” strategic resource management is key. Players collect and transport stone blocks to build iconic structures like pyramids and temples. Each decision is crucial, akin to masterfully planning a family project. It’s not just about building; it’s also about outsmarting opponents and making your mark in history.
“Imhotep” combines an easy-to-learn format with strategic depth, making it ideal for dads who enjoy a historical twist in their games. Engaging and competitive, it promises a memorable and fun game night delving into ancient Egyptian architecture.
- Number of Players: 2-4
- Approximate Time to Play: 40 minutes
- Approximate Time to Learn: 15-20 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 10+
Carcassonne
Dive into medieval France with Carcassonne, where dads become masterminds of city planning! This game is a strategic and historical delight, ideal for dads who love to strategize and enjoy a touch of the past.
In Carcassonne, players build a landscape with tiles depicting cities, roads, and fields. It’s all about smart tile placement and judicious deployment of followers – knights, monks, thieves, or farmers – to control and score these territories.
Simple yet engaging, Carcassonne offers a blend of easy-to-learn mechanics and strategic depth. Perfect for a historical game night, it turns dads into architects of their medieval empire.
Carcassonne Game Specs:
- Number of Players: 2-5 (up to 6 with expansions)
- Approximate Time to Play: 30-45 minutes
- Approximate Time to Learn: 10-15 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 7+
Constitution Quest
“For dads who are fans of American history, Constitution Quest is an exciting and educational choice.”
In Constitution Quest, players embark on a journey through the foundational document of the United States, learning about its articles, amendments, and the overall structure of the American government. It’s not just a game; it’s a learning experience that brings history to life.
Players navigate the board, answering questions and solving puzzles related to the Constitution. It’s like a historical trivia night but with the added challenge of strategic movement and decision-making. The game is perfect for dads who appreciate a deeper understanding of American history and enjoy testing their knowledge.
Constitution Quest Games Specs:
- Number of Players: 2-4
- Approximate Time to Play: 60-90 minutes
- Approximate Time to Learn: 20-30 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 10+
Axis & Allies
No historic games list would be complete without a World War II-themed game. Axis & Allies is a classic board game known for its in-depth strategy and historical accuracy.
In Axis & Allies, players take on the roles of World War II’s powerful nations, divided into the Axis and Allied powers. The game combines military strategy, economic planning, and tactical combat. It’s about managing resources, deploying forces, and engaging in battles that shaped the course of history.
The gameplay is a sophisticated blend of historical events and strategic decision-making. Think of it as a mix between a high-stakes history lesson and a chess game on a global scale.
Axis & Allies is perfect for dads who relish games that are not only entertaining but also educational. It offers an immersive experience of the complexities of World War II, making it a great choice for a game night that’s both fun and historically enlightening.
Axis & Allies Game Specs:
- Number of Players: 2-5 (varies slightly depending on the edition)
- Approximate Time to Play: 180-360 minutes (3-6 hours)
- Approximate Time to Learn: 30-60 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 12+ (also varies slightly by edition)
Watergate
Step back into one of history’s most gripping political dramas with Watergate, a game perfect for dads who relish strategy and intrigue.” This two-player game invites you into the intense struggle between a determined journalist and the Nixon administration.
In this strategic contest, players vie to either expose the scandal or keep it under wraps, using evidence and savvy tactics. It’s an engaging, tight battle that captures the essence of this historical event.
Watergate is ideal for dads interested in political history and strategic gameplay, offering an intellectually stimulating experience. Prepare for an enthralling game night filled with suspense and historical depth.
Watergate Game Specs:
- Number of Players: 2
- Approximate Time to Play: 30-60 minutes
- Approximate Time to Learn: 15-20 minutes
- Recommended Ages: 12+
We know Not all dads are the same. But, even if they aren’t into history, they will no doubt relish the chance to spend quality time with their family learning a new and challenging board game!
