Dating in 2026 often feels like trying to order lunch from a menu written in emojis. Between apps, ghosting, bread-crumbing, speed dates and algorithmic matchmaking, sparking real connection is harder than ever. Enter the humble board game, an activity that’s charming, honest, and increasingly the go-to tool for daters looking to break the awkwardness barrier.
“Games are a powerful social tool, they create ease, help people open up, and show off personality in ways that aren’t overly polished. On date night, a good game does more than entertain, it reveals a lot about a person,” says Stefan Roets, spokesperson for game distributor Solarpop. “You’re not staring at your phone or recycling small talk because you’re engaging, laughing, competing, and maybe discovering just how much your date hates to lose.”
Cooler than Cupid
Summer’s sizzling, and what better way to cool off than with a chilled drink and a little tabletop chaos? Whether you’re vibing with Vibr-action- a dexterity game that involves a vibrating device and increasingly absurd tasks, or laughing your way through Horrible Therapist – where players dish out hilariously bad advice, the tabletop games landscape is full of flirty fun.
“These kinds of games cut through the pressure,” says Richard Wilson of Timeless Board Games in Edenvale. “We’ve seen people come in to play something like Codenames Duet for 20 minutes and end up staying for hours. They forget the awkwardness and just enjoy being together.”
Conversation-starters and ice-breakers
For the nervous daters or the seasoned couples wanting something new, a conversation game is a solid pick. Codenames Duet is a crowd favourite because it’s quick to learn and collaborative. You’ll either crack the clues and high-five like pros or misfire hilariously. Either way, it’s a win.
Prefer chaos? Try Exploding Kittens, a wildly popular card game that’s part Russian roulette, part adorable disaster. Designed by The Oatmeal creator Matthew Inman, it’s quick, ridiculous, and a great test of your date’s poker face.
Want strategy? Play the long game
For those who like their love with a side of strategy, Catan delivers. It’s all about trading, building, plotting and yes, being robbed. But in a date setting, it’s revealing. Is your partner cooperative or cunning? Are they quietly competitive or all-in aggressive?
Magic connection
Magic: The Gathering fans, this one’s for you. Lorwyn: Eclipsed has launched, and it’s a reminder of how hobby gaming can also be romantic. “Couples who play together stay together,” says Roets. “And Magic fans are some of the most passionate players we’ve seen.”
Friends, then more
Jateen Algu, manager of The Big Bang store in uMhlanga, has seen gaming friendships blossom into relationships. “Board gamers are a growing, social community; people meet at in-store events, play together regularly, and some of those friendships evolve into something more,” he says.
It’s chemistry with meeples, and it’s not just romantic. Whether you’re dating, hanging out with friends, celebrating Valentine’s or Galentine’s, these games are inclusive and designed to connect people beyond the score sheet.
Why games work
Board games create shared focus, give your hands something to do, and open up space for vulnerability and laughter. So, ditch the overpriced dinner and the pressure to perform. Because love, like a good game, is always better when you play.
Game Night Date Tips
Match the mood: Flirty, silly, or strategic—choose accordingly.
• Keep it chill: It’s a date, not a tournament.
• Add snacks: Popcorn + Slush Puppie + games = perfect combo.
• Laugh a little: Don’t take the scoreboard too seriously.
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