Board games have been a staple of social gatherings for centuries, and for a good reason – they’re a great way to bring people together and have some fun. But not all board games are created equal, especially when finding a suitable game for a larger group. When finding the best 7 player board games, there are a few key factors to remember.
First and foremost, the game should be engaging and entertaining for everyone involved. With a larger group, finding a game that allows for a good amount of player interaction while offering enough strategy and decision-making to keep things interesting is essential. Additionally, the board game for 7 players should be relatively easy to learn so everyone can jump in and start having fun.
Best 7 Player Board Games
These games provide hours of entertainment and encourage communication, teamwork, and friendly competition. After researching and testing various board games, we’ve compiled a list of the top 11 best 7 player board games that fit these criteria. From classic strategy games to cooperative mysteries, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Here is a brief introduction to our list. We will go into more detail about each game below!
- 7 Wonders: A strategy game where players build and develop a civilization, earning points for their accomplishments.
- Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate: A cooperative game where players explore a haunted city, uncovering mysteries and facing off against supernatural threats.
- The Resistance: Avalon: A game of deduction and deception, where players must work together to uncover a traitor.
- One Night Ultimate Werewolf: A fast-paced game of deception and deduction where players must figure out who among them is a werewolf before it’s too late.
- Cosmic Encounter: A sci-fi game of negotiation and alliances where players represent alien races vying for galaxy control.
- Concept: A communication game where players use icons to convey words or phrases to their teammates to guess the correct answer.
- Deception: Murder in Hong Kong: A deduction game where players take on the roles of investigators trying to solve a murder, but one player is the murderer trying to mislead the group.
- Caverna: The Cave Farmers: A strategy game where players build up their farms and expand their resources while competing against each other for points.
- Citadels: A card game where players compete to build the most fantastic city, gathering resources and constructing buildings.
- Camel Up: A fun racing game where players bet on camels competing in a race through the desert.
- Mysterium: A cooperative game where players work together to solve a murder mystery by interpreting cryptic clues given by a ghost player.
Whether planning a game night with friends or looking for a new game to play with family, these 11 board games will surely provide an exciting and memorable experience. Let’s dive into our list of the best 7 player board games!
1. 7 Wonders
The first board game on our list of the best 7 player board games is 7 Wonders. It’s a strategy game that takes place over three different ages, with players taking on the roles of leaders building up their civilizations. The game aims to earn the most victory points, which players can achieve through various means, such as building Wonders, advancing in science, or conquering neighboring territories.
One of the strengths of 7 Wonders is its scalability. The game accommodates anywhere from 3 to 7 players, making it an excellent choice for larger groups. The gameplay is also relatively fast-paced, with each round only lasting about 30 minutes so that players won’t get bogged down in a long game.
Another positive aspect of 7 Wonders is its replayability. There are multiple paths to victory, and the game’s random card distribution means no two games will be identical. Additionally, the game’s expansions add even more variety and complexity to the gameplay.
However, there are a few potential downsides to 7 Wonders. One issue is that the game’s scoring system can confuse new players. Understanding how to earn victory points effectively can take a few rounds. Additionally, some players may find the game’s artwork and symbols busy or overwhelming.
Pros:
- Scalable for 3 to 7 players
- Fast-paced gameplay
- High replayability
Cons:
- Confusing scoring system
- Overwhelming artwork and symbols
2. Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate
Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate is a cooperative game where players take on the roles of adventurers exploring the haunted city of Baldur’s Gate. The game is based on the famous Betrayal at House on the Hill game, but with a Dungeons & Dragons twist. Players work together to uncover mysteries and face off against supernatural threats. Still, they must also be wary of betrayal from one of their own.
One of the strengths of Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate is its immersive and atmospheric gameplay. The game’s setting is rich with lore and detail, creating a spooky, suspenseful atmosphere that keeps players on the edge of their seats. The game also offers a lot of variety and replayability, with different scenarios and outcomes depending on the choices made by the players.
Another positive aspect of Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate is its cooperative gameplay. Players must collaborate to explore the city and defeat threats, encouraging communication and teamwork. The game also offers a good amount of strategy and decision-making, as players must balance their own goals with the needs of the group.
However, Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate has a few potential downsides. One issue is that the game can be complex and challenging to learn, especially for those who are not familiar with Dungeons & Dragons. The game’s mechanics can also be fiddly and prone to confusion or interpretation.
Pros:
- The immersive and atmospheric setting.
- Cooperative gameplay encourages teamwork and strategy.
- Offers variety and replayability with different scenarios and outcomes.
Cons:
- Can be complex and difficult to learn.
- Mechanics can be fiddly and prone to confusion.
- It may be less appealing to those not familiar with Dungeons & Dragons.
3. The Resistance: Avalon
The Resistance: Avalon is a game of deduction and deception, where players must work together to uncover a traitor. Based on the popular game The Resistance, Avalon takes place in the world of Arthurian legend, with players taking on the roles of knights and servants of King Arthur. The game is played over several rounds, with players taking turns to nominate teams to complete quests. However, some players are secretly working against the rest, and it is up to the loyal players to deduce who they are.
One of the strengths of Avalon is its high level of player interaction. The game is heavily focused on communication and deduction, with players constantly trying to read each other’s intentions and figure out who the traitor is. These game aspects make for a highly engaging and suspenseful experience, especially when played with a group of friends who are invested in the game.
Another positive aspect of Avalon is its replayability. The game offers a variety of roles and special abilities, which can change from each individual game, making each playthrough unique. Additionally, the game’s mechanics are relatively simple and easy to learn, which makes it accessible to a wide range of players.
However, there are also a few potential downsides to Avalon. One issue is that the game can be challenging, especially for those who are not used to deduction games. The game’s theme and setting may appeal to only some, particularly those unfamiliar with Arthurian legend.
Pros:
- High level of player interaction and engagement.
- Offers replayability with varied roles and abilities.
- Simple mechanics make it accessible to a wide range of players.
Cons:
- It can be challenging for those not used to deduction games.
- Theme and setting may not appeal to everyone.
- May require a large group to play effectively.
4. One Night Ultimate Werewolf
One Night Ultimate Werewolf is a thrilling and fast-paced social deduction game that 3 to 10 players can enjoy. The game is set in a small village where some players take on the roles of werewolves while the rest are villagers. The game’s goal is for the villagers to identify and eliminate the werewolves before killing them.
The game is played over several rounds, each consisting of night and day phases. During the night phase, players close their eyes and take turns performing actions based on their roles. Werewolves can secretly see each other. Other players may have abilities such as swapping positions or peeking at other players’ cards. During the day phase, players discuss and try to figure out who the werewolves are before voting to eliminate one player. If the werewolves are eliminated, the villagers win, but the werewolves win if a villager is eliminated.
One of the strengths of One Night Ultimate Werewolf is its simplicity and ease of learning. The game can be explained in just a few minutes, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. The game is also highly replayable, with various roles and combinations to keep each game fresh and exciting.
Pros:
- Easy to learn and teach.
- Highly replayable with a variety of different roles and combinations.
- Fast-paced and engaging gameplay that keeps players on their toes.
Cons:
- It can be prone to player elimination early in the game, leading to some players being left out of the action.
- It relies heavily on player interaction and discussion, so it may not be suitable for players who prefer more strategic or solitary games.
- Some roles may be more potent than others, leading to imbalanced gameplay in certain combinations.
5. Cosmic Encounter
Cosmic Encounter is a game that combines elements of strategy, negotiation, and luck in a thrilling sci-fi adventure. The objective is establishing colonies on other planets by negotiating alliances, forging treaties, and waging wars against opponents. Players represent different alien races with unique abilities.
One of the critical features of Cosmic Encounter is the vast array of alien races, each with unique abilities that can significantly alter the game’s dynamics. The game encourages players to form alliances and backstab each other, adding a layer of unpredictability that keeps the game exciting and fresh. With constantly changing rules and game mechanics, each round of Cosmic Encounter is a unique experience that requires adaptability and quick thinking.
The game also has a vital social aspect, as players must negotiate and strategize with each other throughout the game. Cosmic Encounter encourages players to think creatively and outside the box, making it an excellent match for those who enjoy games with high levels of player interaction and negotiation.
You will need an expansion in order to play with 7 players:
Pros:
- High replayability due to the vast array of alien races and constantly changing game mechanics.
- Encourages creative thinking and negotiation skills.
- Exciting and unpredictable gameplay that keeps players engaged.
Cons:
- The constantly changing rules and mechanics may be overwhelming for some players.
- The negotiation aspect of the game may be challenging for players uncomfortable with confrontation or social interaction.
- The game can be time-consuming, with some lasting up to two hours or more.
6. Concept
The board game Concept is a unique and challenging communication game that has entertained players since its release in 2013. It is a cooperative game that requires players to work together in teams to guess words or phrases by using a board filled with various icons. The icons represent different categories, such as animals, professions, or emotions. Players use them to create clues that lead their teammates to guess the correct answer.
What sets Concept apart from other games is the lack of verbal communication allowed between players. Instead, players must rely solely on the board of icons to convey their clues. This requires creativity and strategic thinking that makes the game challenging and engaging.
One of Concept’s pros is that players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy it. It’s easy to learn yet challenging to master, making it an excellent choice for family game nights or a group of friends. Additionally, the game’s open-ended nature allows for a lot of creativity and variation in gameplay.
On the other hand, one potential con of Concept is that it may be less enjoyable for those who struggle with abstract thinking or creative problem-solving. Some players may find the lack of structure or rules frustrating, and the reliance on non-verbal communication may differ from everyone’s cup of tea.
Overall, Concept is a delightful game that offers a unique and engaging challenge for players of all ages and skill levels. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a fun and thought-provoking game to play with friends and family.
7. Deception: Murder in Hong Kong
Deception: Murder in Hong Kong is a unique and engaging game of deduction that challenges players to solve a murder while navigating the deceptions and misdirections of their fellow players. In the game, players act as investigators trying to solve a murder. Still, one player is secretly the murderer, trying to deceive the group and avoid being caught.
The game takes place over several rounds, with players working together to examine clues and gather evidence. The murderer must try to mislead the group by offering false leads and diverting attention from themselves. At the same time, the investigators must use their deductive skills to piece together the clues and identify the natural killer.
One of the strengths of Deception: Murder in Hong Kong is its replayability. With a large variety of cards and a different murderer in each game, no two games are ever the same. The game also offers various roles and special abilities that add depth and complexity to the gameplay.
Pros:
- Engaging and unique gameplay that challenges players to use their deduction skills
- High replayability with a variety of different cards and murderers
- Offers a variety of different roles and special abilities that add depth to the gameplay
Cons:
- It can be difficult for players who are not experienced with deduction games.
- Some players may find the game unbalanced if one player consistently gets the role of the murderer.
- It can be challenging for players who struggle with reading body language and social cues.
8. Caverna: The Cave Farmers
Caverna: The Cave Farmers is a popular board game that invites players to take on the roles of dwarves trying to build the land’s most prosperous and efficient farm. Players must expand their resources throughout the game, mine for ore, and plant crops to feed their families and animals. They must also plan and think strategically to build new rooms and recruit more dwarves to work on their farm. Points are awarded at the end of the game for achievements such as accumulating resources, having a large and varied herd of animals, and constructing a well-designed farm.
One of the main strengths of Caverna is its depth and complexity. With so many options and strategies available, players can experience a lot of variability in each playthrough. Additionally, the game is well-designed, and the mechanics are intuitive, which makes it easy for new players to learn and enjoy. The game’s components are also high quality, with detailed illustrations and durable pieces.
However, the game can be lengthy, and some players may need help to keep track of all the different actions and resources. Additionally, some players may feel that the game needs a sense of urgency or excitement. The focus is more on building and managing a farm than battling other players or engaging in dramatic events.
Pros:
- Depth and complexity allow for variability in each playthrough
- Well-designed mechanics and high-quality components
- Intuitive and easy to learn
Cons:
- It can be lengthy and overwhelming to some players
- It may lack a sense of urgency or excitement for those seeking more action-oriented gameplay
- Requires significant strategic planning and resource management, which may appeal to only some players.
9. Citadels
Citadels is a card game that combines strategy and role-playing uniquely and excitingly. In this game, players take on the roles of various characters, from assassins to merchants, each with unique abilities and strengths. The objective is to build the most fantastic city by gathering resources, constructing buildings, and acquiring districts. The game is played over several rounds, with players taking turns choosing which character they want to play as and then using their abilities to advance their city-building goals. The player with the most points at the end of the final round wins the game.
One of the most exciting aspects of Citadels is the role-playing element. Each character has unique abilities, and it’s up to the player to decide how best to use them. For example, the assassin can eliminate another player’s character, while the thief can steal gold from other players. This adds an extra layer of strategy and intrigue to the game, as players must constantly consider using their characters to gain an advantage.
Pros:
- The game has a lot of replayability due to the various characters and strategies that can be used.
- The role-playing aspect of the game adds a fun and unique element to gameplay.
- The game can accommodate up to 7 players, making it an excellent choice for larger groups.
Cons:
- The game can be complex and challenging to learn for new players.
- The amount of luck involved can make the game frustrating at times.
- Some players may find that the game becomes repetitive after multiple plays.
10. Camel Up
Camel Up is a lighthearted racing game perfect for those who want a quick, fun game to play with friends and family. In the game, players bet on camels racing through the desert and must strategize their bets to maximize their winnings. The game has a modular board that can be set up differently for each game, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting. The game also includes a fun and unique dice-rolling mechanism that determines how far each camel will move each turn, adding an element of luck to the game.
Pros:
- Easy to learn and play: Camel Up has simple rules that can be explained in just a few minutes, making it accessible to players of all skill levels.
- Fun and engaging: The betting mechanic of the game adds a layer of excitement and tension to the gameplay as players strategize and try to outsmart their opponents.
- Replayability: With the modular board and the randomized dice rolls, each game of Camel Up is different and offers a fresh experience each time.
Cons:
- Limited strategy: While the betting mechanic adds a level of strategy to the game, players have limited choices for each turn, which may cause the game to feel repetitive after multiple plays.
- Limited player interaction: While players can bet against each other, there is the limited direct interaction between players, which may make the game feel less engaging for some.
- Luck-based: The dice-rolling mechanic adds an element of luck to the game, which may make it frustrating for players who prefer games with a higher degree of skill-based decision-making.
11. Mysterium
Mysterium is a cooperative board game that puts players in the role of psychic investigators trying to solve a murder mystery. One player takes on the part of a ghost who cannot speak but can only communicate with the other players through cryptic clues represented by beautifully illustrated cards. The other players must interpret these clues to determine the circumstances of the murder, including the location, weapon, and identity of the culprit. The game is played over several rounds, with players working together to solve the mystery before time runs out.
Mysterium’s standout features are its stunning artwork and attention to detail. The cards are beautifully illustrated, and the game’s components are well-made and durable. The game’s cooperative nature also promotes teamwork and communication among players, making it an excellent option for game nights with friends or family.
However, Mysterium does have a few drawbacks. The game can be challenging, especially for players unfamiliar with deduction-style games. Additionally, the game can become repetitive if played too frequently, as the same clues and scenarios may be used multiple times. Finally, the game’s reliance on interpretation and subjective indications can lead to disagreements among players, which may detract from the overall experience.
Pros:
- Beautifully illustrated cards and well-made components
- Promotes teamwork and communication among players
- Engaging and challenging gameplay
Cons:
- It can be difficult for players unfamiliar with deduction-style games
- It can become repetitive with repeated play
- Reliance on subjective interpretation can lead to disagreements among players.
Best 7 Player Board Games Conclusion
With so many fantastic board games, finding the perfect one for your group of seven players can be daunting. However, this list has provided some of the best board games for 7 players, each with unique gameplay, themes, and mechanics.
Whether you’re looking for a cooperative game like Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate, or a strategy game like Caverna: The Cave Farmers, or a deduction game like Deception: Murder in Hong Kong or Mysterium, there is something on this list for everyone. Additionally, if you’re looking for a quick and easy game to play with your group, Camel Up and One Night Ultimate Werewolf provide fast-paced fun.
Overall, board games are a fantastic way to connect with others. Playing these seven-player games can provide hours of entertainment and challenge for you and your group. So gather your friends, family, or co-workers and get ready to roll the dice, draw cards, and enjoy some of the best board games for seven players. Whether you’re a seasoned board gamer or a newcomer to the hobby, these games will surely provide an enjoyable and memorable experience.
