Board Game Companies: Top Manufacturers On The Market

Introduction

Board game companies play a crucial role in the growth and popularity of board games. These companies are responsible for creating and publishing innovative games that enhance the player’s experience. Without them, the board game industry would not be as successful as it is today. In this article, we will explore the top board game companies in the world, their products, and their impact on the industry. We will also discuss the importance of these companies in creating job opportunities and contributing to the popularity of board games around the world, as well as what the future holds for the industry and more. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of board game companies!

Top Board Game Publishers

Board games have been a popular pastime for centuries, and the industry continues to thrive in the digital age. The top board game publishers are known for their innovative and high-quality products that enhance the player’s experience. These publishers continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the board game industry, providing players with endless hours of entertainment and fun.

Option #1. Asmodee

Board game company from France, Asmodee, has been in operation since 1995. They not only create their own games but also publish and distribute games for smaller developers. Asmodee has acquired many other board game publishers and is now a leader in the games industry worldwide.

What sets Asmodee apart is their ability to turn stories into successful consumer products. They have a strong foundation of publishing studios and distribution networks that allow them to explore new forms of content and entertainment. This has resulted in some of the most captivating games in the industry, such as Dobble/Spot it!, Catan, Star Wars: X-Wing, Ticket to Ride, Jungle Speed, Arkham Horror, Pandemic, and Timeline.

Asmodee values the power of ideas and encourages creativity and innovation. They have established a research and development model based on testing and learning, from publishing to distribution. They are constantly evolving by reinventing themselves and seeking out new stories to tell.

As a company, Asmodee is seriously impressive. They are in the business of games, with a true entrepreneurial spirit. They are a team of over 2300 remarkable individuals who create and sell amazing products, and they take their work very seriously. Overall, Asmodee has made a significant impact on the board game industry with its emphasis on storytelling, top-quality components, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

Here are some interesting facts about Asmodee:

🎲 – Asmodee has over 14 studios worldwide, each with its own unique focus and expertise.

📚 – Asmodee has created games based on popular franchises such as Star Wars and Lord of the Rings.

🏆 – Asmodee has won numerous awards for their games, including the prestigious Spiel des Jahres award.

💰 – Asmodee has been acquired by various companies over the years, including Eurazeo and PAI Partners, and is currently owned by the investment firm, PAI Partners.

Option #2. Ravensburger

Ravensburger is a well-known manufacturer of board games that has been producing award-winning products since 1883. The company was founded by Otto Robert Maier in Ravensburg, Germany and has since become a household name in the board game industry. Ravensburger offers a wide range of games, puzzles, and educational products for both children and adults.

One of the strengths of Ravensburger is its varied product line, which includes picture books, activity books for children, art instruction manuals, non-fiction books, and reference books. The company also produces children’s games, Happy Families, and activity kits, as well as jigsaw puzzles, hobby products, and CD-ROM titles. With approximately 1800 books and 850 games available, Ravensburger exports its products to over fifty countries.

Ravensburger’s dedication to quality and innovation has earned the company numerous awards and recognition, including multiple wins of the prestigious “Spiel des Jahres” award, the most prestigious board game award in Germany. Ravensburger’s games are known for their engaging gameplay, high-quality components, and educational value.

Aside from board games, Ravensburger also produces Tarock cards, a 54-card pack of the Bourgeois Tarot pattern with genre scenes, used for playing the game of Cego, which is popular in the Black Forest region. The company has also set world records for the largest jigsaw puzzle, including one designed by late pop artist Keith Haring titled “Keith Haring: Double Retrospect”.

Ravensburger’s commitment to quality and innovation has made it a leader in the board game industry. With its diverse product line and award-winning games, Ravensburger continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of board games.

Here are some interesting facts about Ravensburger:

🏆 – Award-winning products: Ravensburger has a portfolio of award-winning products that have made them a leading manufacturer in the industry. Some of their most popular games include “Labyrinth”, “Scotland Yard”, and “The Castles of Burgundy”. They also collaborated with other companies to create unique offerings, like when they partnered with Disney to create a line of Disney-themed puzzles and games.

🌍 – Global presence: Ravensburger has a global presence with offices in Europe, North America, and Asia. They have been able to expand their reach by partnering with other companies to distribute their products in different regions.

📈 – Growth: Ravensburger has experienced steady growth over the years. In 2020, they reported a 15-20% increase in sales, which they attributed to the rise in popularity of board games during the pandemic.

🎓 – Educational games: Ravensburger also produces educational games that are designed to help children learn while having fun. Their “Science X” line of products teaches kids about science and technology through interactive games and experiments.

Option #3. Hasbro

Well-known company in the toy industry, Hasbro, has been a leader for many years. They have a wide range of products that are popular and well-known, including Transformers, G.I. Joe, Power Rangers, Monopoly, and My Little Pony, among others. Hasbro has also acquired other well-known brands such as Kenner, Milton Bradley, Parker Brothers, and Wizards of the Coast. In 2019, Hasbro expanded its portfolio by acquiring Entertainment One, which includes franchises like Peppa Pig and PJ Masks.

As of August 2020, Hasbro’s shares were mostly held by large financial institutions, making it one of the most valuable companies in the toy industry. Hasbro has a rich history, having been founded in 1923 by three Polish-Jewish brothers who started out selling textile remnants. Over time, Hasbro has expanded its product line to include toys, board games, and other entertainment products.

Hasbro is the largest producer of board games in the world, thanks to its acquisition of component brands such as Parker Brothers, Waddingtons, Milton Bradley, Wizards of the Coast, and Avalon Hill. As a result, it has a wide range of top-selling games, including Monopoly, Scrabble, Clue, and Risk, among others. Hasbro also offers variations of most of its games, such as Scrabble Deluxe Edition, Scrabble Junior, and Scrabble Onyx Edition.

Aside from board games, Hasbro also creates other games of skill, such as Bop It and Jenga. The company has also entered the world of educational games, offering a memory game called Simon that involves memorizing sequences of colors and lights.

Overall, Hasbro is a brand that has been successful for a long time and continues to create high-quality products that people of all ages enjoy. Their success is due to their commitment to excellence and their ability to adapt to changing market trends.

Here are some interesting facts about Hasbro:

🎲 – Monopoly was originally created by a woman named Elizabeth Magie in 1904, but it wasn’t until 1935 when Hasbro acquired the rights to the game and made it the iconic board game we know today.

🕵️‍♀️ – The game Clue, originally called Cluedo, was invented out of boredom during World War II Air-Raids by Anthony Pratt. Hasbro acquired the rights to the game in 1991 and has since released various versions of the game, including a popular movie-themed version.

🚀 – In addition to board games and toys, Hasbro has also produced various TV shows and movies, including the Transformers franchise.

🕰️ – Hasbro has been around since 1923 and has stood the test of time, remaining one of the most successful toy and game companies in the world.

Option #4. Goliath Games

Goliath Games is a company that creates board games and has been in operation since 1980. It is one of the oldest brands in the industry and has been leading the way in the industry’s changes. What makes Goliath different from other board game companies is that it is a family business. This means that the company has a personal touch that is often missing from larger corporations.

Since its inception, Goliath Games has grown significantly. It currently has offices in France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Poland, Belgium, Netherlands, USA, Canada, Hong Kong, and Australia. Its head office is located in the Netherlands, from where it exports to approximately 70 countries worldwide.

Goliath Games is known for its innovative products that help with child development, critical thinking, social skills, and curiosity. Its popular consumer brands include Rummikub, Tri-Ominos, Wordsearch, Pop the Pig, Doggie Doo, Gooey Looey, Catch the Fox, and many others. Goliath is also active in other toy categories, such as puzzles, arts & crafts, outdoor, activity, and novelties.

One of the most impressive things about Goliath Games is its strategy for acquiring other game companies. Over the years, the company has acquired several other game companies, including Pressman Toy, JAX, Tucker Toys, Vivid Toy Group, MacDue, Crown & Andrews, Britz ’n’ Pieces/Wahu, Modelco, and Elephanta. This has allowed Goliath to expand its product line and reach more consumers around the world.

Goliath Games is also one of the few remaining family-owned and operated businesses in the world of toys and games. The company was founded by Adi Golad and his wife Margreeth in 1980. They fell in love over a game of Rummikub in the Israeli desert and eventually moved to Holland to start their business. Despite obstacles along the way, they popularized Rummikub among Dutch people and set a world record in quantity of a single game sold per capita in one year.

In summary, Goliath Games is a board game company that has been around for more than 40 years. It is a family business that has grown significantly over the years and has acquired several other game companies. Goliath is known for its innovative products that help with child development, critical thinking, social skills, and curiosity. It is one of the few remaining family-owned and operated businesses in the world of toys and games and is leading the way in the industry’s changes.

Here are some interesting facts about Goliath Games:

🎲 – Wide Range of Games: Goliath Games offers a wide range of games, from classic board games to new and innovative games that are perfect for all ages.

❤️ – Popular Games: Some of the most popular games from Goliath Games include Rummikub, Sequence, and Googly Eyes. These games have been enjoyed by families and friends for generations.

🧭 – International Presence: Goliath Games has a strong international presence, with their products being sold in over 75 countries worldwide. This allows them to bring their games to a global audience.

🔎 – Commitment to Quality: Goliath Games is committed to producing high-quality games that are both fun and educational. They use the latest technology and materials to ensure that their games are durable and long-lasting.

Option #5. Grand Prix International

A company called Grand Prix International has been making a name for themselves in the board game industry by producing high-quality products. They are responsible for designing and developing new board games that have taken over the market with their creative ideas and careful attention to detail. Their reputation as one of the best board game companies in the industry is due to their dedication to creating unique and captivating games, that are recognized for their excellent components, stunning artwork, and enjoyable gameplay.

GPI’s dedication to quality is evident in the care they put into every aspect of their games. They pay close attention to the details of their games, from the components to the production schedule, to ensure that everything meets their high standards. This attention to detail helps prevent misunderstandings, problems, and delays.

One thing that sets GPI apart from other board game companies is their expertise in manufacturing overseas. They have been producing products in China for many years, and their team of project managers is very experienced with all types of manufacturing. This experience allows GPI to avoid the difficulties of manufacturing overseas, which allows their customers to focus on their own strengths.

GPI’s commitment to quality goes beyond just their manufacturing process. They have a specific group of factories that they have worked with for over 40 years to ensure that their customers receive the best quality products at a fair price and on time. This dedication to quality and customer satisfaction has made GPI a trusted name in the board game industry.

In summary, Grand Prix International is a board game company that stands out from the competition with their dedication to quality and attention to detail. Their expertise in overseas manufacturing and their specific factory network ensure that their customers receive high-quality products at a fair price. GPI dominates the market with their top-notch products and is a popular choice among board game enthusiasts.

Here are some interesting facts about some of their games:

🍌 – Bananagrams: This fast-paced word game was created by Rena Nathanson in 2006 and has since become a best-seller. It consists of letter tiles that players use to create a crossword-style grid. The first player to use up all their tiles wins the game.

❄️ – The Thing: Based on the classic horror movie, this board game is a cooperative game where players must work together to survive an alien invasion. The game is known for its intense gameplay and high level of difficulty.

🐱 – Cobra Paw: This game is a fast-paced, action-packed game that is perfect for families. It consists of a set of dice with different symbols on them, and players must race to grab the correct symbol before their opponents.

🏆 – Grand Prix International: This board game company has been producing high-quality games for over 40 years. They are known for their innovative gameplay and attention to detail, and have won numerous awards for their games.

Other Notable Board Game Publishers

This section highlights some of the other notable board game publishers in the industry. With such a wide selection of varied board gaming styles and specialties, there’s no wonder the industry is alive and well.

Option #6. Alderac Entertainment Group (AEG)

AEG, a company based in California, produces games such as role-playing, board, and collectible card games. Jolly Blackburn founded the company in 1993, starting with the hobby gaming magazine industry and their award-winning publication, Shadis. Since then, they have expanded into various markets, including RPGs, CCGs, and board games.

AEG’s ‘roll and keep’ mechanic is a popular feature in many of their games. However, their most significant contribution to role-playing systems is the idea of ‘Action Dice.’ These are extra dice given to a player for good role-playing, ideas, or amusing the GM, which can be rolled to improve the player’s chance of success when making any die roll.

AEG published Legend of the Five Rings and its associated RPG and CCG lines for 20 years, from 1995 to 2015, in the CCG market. They have also released several successful board games, including Thunderstone and Smash Up. Thunderstone, a deck-building game, was a notable success from their initial wave of board game releases in 2009. Nightfall, another deck-building game, debuted in 2011 and featured the chaining mechanic developed with help from BGG users.

In 2012, AEG released a highly praised revision of Thunderstone called Thunderstone Advance. Later that year, they released Smash Up, a shuffle-building card game, and a new line of euro games set in the shared world of Tempest, including Dominare, Mercante, and Courtier.

Overall, AEG has made a significant impact on the board game industry with their innovative game mechanics and successful game releases. Their dedication to creating engaging and immersive gaming experiences has earned them a loyal following among gamers worldwide.

Here are some interesting facts about some of their popular titles:

🃏 – Smash Up: AEG’s most popular game, Smash Up, is a card game where players combine two different factions to create a unique deck. With over 90+ factions available, which combine to form over 4,000+ unique pairs, the possibilities are endless.

🚀 – Space Base: In Space Base, players build and manage their own space station, earning points by completing missions and upgrading their facilities. The game’s unique dice-rolling mechanic keeps each turn exciting and unpredictable.

⚔️ – Thunderstone Quest: A dungeon-crawling adventure game, Thunderstone Quest challenges players to build a party of heroes and defeat powerful monsters. With multiple quests and a variety of cards to choose from, no two games are the same.

🏘️ – Tiny Towns: In Tiny Towns, players take on the role of town planners, constructing buildings and managing resources to create a thriving community. The game’s simple rules and charming art style make it easy to learn and fun to play.

Option #7. Arcane Wonders

Arcane Wonders is a game company that has been making a name for itself since 2012. They specialize in creating strategic, competitive, and social board and card games that are perfect for playing with friends. Their games have won many awards, including the best-selling “Mage Wars Arena” and “Mage Wars Academy” games, the famous bluffing game “Sheriff of Nottingham,” and the UK Games Expo 2016 Best Abstract winner “Onitama.”

What makes Arcane Wonders different from other game companies is their partnership with Tom Vasel, a well-known reviewer from The Dice Tower. Together, they have created The Dice Tower Essentials® line of games, which includes games that Tom himself has played, loves, and brought to Arcane Wonders to publish under this exclusive product line. This partnership has allowed Arcane Wonders to build a collection of games that range from new games from first-time designers to existing games from experienced designers that have not seen the full exposure they deserve.

One of the company’s most well-liked and awarded games is Mage Wars, a strategic game that allows players to become powerful mages battling it out in an arena. The game has received many accolades and has become a favorite among board game enthusiasts. Arcane Wonders also offers a range of other games, including Spoils of War, a dice-rolling game of risk and reward, and Onitama, a two-player strategy game that has been likened to chess.

Arcane Wonders’ games are known for their high-quality pieces, engaging gameplay, and strategic depth. They offer a variety of games that cater to different interests and skill levels, from card and dice games to miniature and RPG games. Their educational games are also noteworthy, as they provide a fun and interactive way for children to learn while playing.

Overall, Arcane Wonders is a company that is committed to creating games that are not only enjoyable to play but also challenging and rewarding. Their dedication to quality and innovation has made them a standout in the game industry, and their partnership with Tom Vasel has only strengthened their position as a leading publisher of board games.

Here are some interesting facts about Arcane Wonder titles:

🧙‍♂️ – Mage Wars: Mage Wars is a strategy game that allows players to create their own spellbooks and battle against each other in a fantasy setting. The game has a large following and has been praised for its depth and replayability.

🤠 – Sheriff of Nottingham: In Sheriff of Nottingham, players take turns being the sheriff and inspecting the goods that other players are trying to bring into the city. The game has been praised for its social interaction and ability to create memorable moments.

🐲 – Onitama: Onitama is a two-player game that is often compared to chess. Players move their pieces around the board and try to capture their opponent’s pieces. The game has a simple ruleset but can be incredibly deep and strategic.

🎲 – Spoils of War: In Spoils of War, players roll dice and try to collect sets of matching symbols. The game has a lot of player interaction and can lead to some tense moments as players try to outwit each other.

Option #8. Blue Orange Games

Board game company based in San Francisco, Blue Orange Games, has been producing and promoting award-winning games for over 18 years. Founded in 1999 by Thierry Denoual and Julien Mayot, the company is known for its commitment to the environment and use of recyclable materials in its games. Blue Orange Games offers a wide variety of products that are easy to learn, fun to play, and engaging for all ages. Many of their games help children develop important skills such as dexterity, memory, math, logic, and cooperation. The company strongly advocates for the value of play and believes in the social and developmental benefits of playing offline games instead of spending time on electronic devices.

Some of the popular games offered by Blue Orange Games include Gobblet, Pengoloo, Tell Tale, Fastrack, Yamslam, and Kingdomino. The best-selling game, Spot It!, was released in 2010 and has maintained its position in the top 100 of the toys & games category on Amazon.com. Spot it! is now available in many different editions and has a Major League Baseball license and a National Hockey League license.

Blue Orange Games has won several industry awards for their business management, including the Vendor Award from Toy Collection and Learning Express in 2011, and the Vendor of the Year award from The American Specialty Retailer Association in June 2012. The company’s success has been attributed to their business style and positive relationships with retailers.

Blue Orange Games has three main divisions: Blue Orange Edition (France), the engineering/consulting firm of the group; Blue Orange Games (United States), the distributor of Blue Orange’s games in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand; and Blue Orange Europe (France), which approves, validates, and distributes Blue Orange’s games in the rest of the world. Blue Orange’s games are sold on five continents and in 59 different countries.

In addition to their commitment to the environment, Blue Orange Games has recently shifted their focus towards initiatives that will impact children and communities on a more local level. They have created partnerships that allow them to donate their games to schools, libraries, and disaster relief organizations, and sponsor local game nights, meet-ups, and special events across the country. Blue Orange Games is dedicated to their mission of bringing Hot Games to a Cool Planet and helping family and friends create timeless memories around great games.

Here are some interesting facts about some of the best Blue Orange Games:

🏰 – Kingdomino: Kingdomino won the prestigious Spiel des Jahres award in 2017, which is considered the highest honor in the board game industry. It is a strategic game that involves building a kingdom by connecting different types of terrain.

🌳 – Photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is a unique game that involves growing trees and competing for sunlight. It was designed by Hjalmar Hach and published by Blue Orange Games in 2017. The game has beautiful artwork and a unique gameplay mechanic that makes it stand out from other board games.

🐑 – Battle Sheep: Battle Sheep is a fast-paced strategy game that involves moving sheep around a board and trying to take over the most territory. It was designed by Francesco Rotta and published by Blue Orange Games in 2010. The game is easy to learn but difficult to master, making it a great choice for both kids and adults.

🍽️ – Gobblet: Gobblet is a game that involves placing pieces on a board and trying to get four in a row. It was designed by Thierry Denoual and published by Blue Orange Games in 2001. The game has a unique twist, as players can “gobble up” their opponent’s pieces by placing a larger piece on top of them.

Option #9. Decipher, Inc.

An American gaming company called Decipher, Inc. has been around for more than thirty years. It was founded by Warren Holland in 1983 and started with party games and Pente sets. Later, they moved on to collectible card and role-playing games.

Decipher’s most well-known product is the How to Host a Murder Mystery series, which has been around for a long time. They have also created many different card games, such as the Star Trek and Star Wars Customizable Card Games, which were both very popular and ranked among the top five CCGs for most of their production runs.

Apart from their card games, Decipher has also released licensed role-playing games, including the Star Trek RPG and The Lord of the Rings Roleplaying Game. They acquired most of the gaming studio from Last Unicorn Games to create these games, using a new CODA System which they developed. They also relaunched the Star Trek CCG with a new 2nd Edition, drawing on many of the same game mechanics that had made the first edition so popular, but streamlining them to be easier to learn for new players.

Decipher has tried to enter the younger player CCG market by creating the Young Jedi Collectible Card Game and games based on the popular .hack and Beyblade series. While some of these games were short-lived, others like the .hack//Enemy Trading Card Game were well received and lasted several years.

Despite their successes, Decipher has faced financial difficulties over the years, including embezzlement which cost the company millions. The company suffered significant financial losses and was forced to lay off as many as 40 employees. Decipher has since focused on their remaining properties, Star Trek and Lord of the Rings, and has released their final expansion set for the Lord of the Rings TCG in 2007.

Overall, Decipher, Inc. has made important contributions to the gaming industry with their innovative and popular card and role-playing games. While the company has faced challenges over the years, their legacy lives on through their successful franchises and loyal fanbase.

Here are some interesting facts about the company’s most-loved game releases:

🃏 – WARS Trading Card Game: Decipher Inc. created the WARS Trading Card Game, which was based on the Star Wars franchise. The game was released in 2001 and was well-received by fans of the franchise. It was unfortunately discontinued quickly after release but enthusiasts still collect and play to this day.

🔪 – How to Host a Murder game: Decipher Inc. also created the popular party game, How to Host a Murder. The game involves players taking on different roles and trying to solve a murder mystery. It was first released in 1985 and has since become a classic.

🌋 – The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game: Decipher Inc. also created The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game, which was based on the popular book and movie franchise. The game was released in 2001 and was praised for its strategic gameplay and faithful adaptation of the source material.

🖖 – Star Trek Customizable Card Game: Decipher Inc. created the Star Trek Customizable Card Game, which was based on the Star Trek franchise. The game was released in 1994 and was popular among fans of the franchise for its detailed gameplay and extensive card collection.

Option #10. Fantasy Flight Games

Fantasy Flight Games has been around for more than 23 years and is a top player in the industry. They are known for creating games that are unique, immersive, and have high-quality components. Fantasy Flight Games is a leader in the board game market and has a strong presence in the card game, roleplaying game, and miniature game categories.

Fantasy Flight Games has teamed up with popular franchises like Star Wars, Game of Thrones, Battlestar Galactica, and The Lord of the Rings, among others. They are also known for updating and reprinting well-liked games such as Cosmic Encounter, Arkham Horror, Talisman, and Netrunner.

One of the things that sets Fantasy Flight Games apart is their Living Card Games (LCGs). LCGs have expansions and deck building like collectible card games (CCGs), but they don’t have the “blind buy purchase model” of CCGs. Instead of randomized starter decks and booster packs, LCGs have starter sets and expansion packs with fixed non-randomized distribution of cards. Their starter sets come with pre-made starter decks and are self-contained. Expansion packs are pretty much monthly and each contains 60 cards, with a limit on the number of copies of each unique card that a player can have in their deck.

Fantasy Flight Games has won multiple awards for their games, including the 2016 Origins Awards for Board Game, Miniatures Game, and Role-Playing Game. Overall, Fantasy Flight Games is a well-regarded and innovative board game company that offers a variety of games for players of all skill levels. Their commitment to quality and innovation has made them a leader in the industry, and their LCGs have set them apart from other companies.

Here are some interesting facts about the company and some of their most popular games:

🚀 – Star Wars: X-Wing:

Fantasy Flight Games released the Star Wars: X-Wing Miniatures Game in 2012, which quickly became a fan favorite. The game allows players to control miniature versions of iconic Star Wars ships and engage in tactical space battles.

🐙 – Eldritch Horror:

Eldritch Horror is a cooperative board game that takes place in the 1920s and involves players investigating supernatural occurrences around the world. The game features a variety of Lovecraftian monsters and otherworldly beings that players must defeat in order to save the world.

🕯️ – Arkham Horror:

Arkham Horror is another Lovecraftian-themed board game that has been popular among fans of horror and tabletop gaming since its release in 2005. The game takes place in the fictional town of Arkham, Massachusetts, and involves players investigating supernatural occurrences and battling monsters.

🌌 – Twilight Imperium:

Twilight Imperium is a massive board game that can take up to 8 hours to play. The game involves players controlling different alien races and competing for control of the galaxy through diplomacy, warfare, and politics.

Option #11. Z-Man Games, Inc.

Z-Man Games, Inc. is a game company that was established in 1999 by Zev Shlasinger. The business is known for its creative and captivating games that appeal to a broad range of players. Z-Man Games has released a variety of highly-regarded titles, from simple to intricate, cooperative to competitive, small to large, and everything in between.

One of the most popular series from the company is the Pandemic series of board games, which are cooperative games that require players to work together to save the world from deadly diseases. Z-Man Games is also the exclusive publisher for the English versions of well-known Eurogames, such as Carcassonne and Terra Mystica. In addition to these well-known titles, Z-Man Games has released a variety of other games, including the B-movie card game series consisting of games such as Grave Robbers From Outer Space and Cannibal Pygmies in the Jungle of Doom, 1960: The Making of the President, Agricola, Arimaa, Ascending Empires, Endeavor, Gheos, Neuroshima Hex!, Omlevex, Onirim, and the Oniverse series of short single-player games, Saboteur, Shadow Hunters, Shadowfist, Start Player by Ted Alspach, Ursuppe, and The Walking Dead.

Z-Man Games is a member of the Asmodee Group, which is a leading global publisher and distributor of board games, card games, and role-playing games. Asmodee Group is committed to supporting and expanding the tabletop gaming community through unique gaming experiences.

Overall, Z-Man Games is a company that is devoted to producing innovative and engaging games that become modern essentials. Whether you are a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, there is a game in their catalog to suit your kind of fun.

Here are some interesting facts about Z-Man Games Inc.:

🌍 – Pandemic series:

Z-Man Games Inc. is the publisher of the popular Pandemic series of board games. The Pandemic series has won multiple awards, including the prestigious Origins Award as “Best Board Game” in 2009.

🏰 – Carcassonne:

Z-Man Games Inc. is also the publisher of the popular board game Carcassonne. Carcassonne is a tile-laying game where players build a medieval landscape by placing tiles and claiming areas with their meeples.

🌳 – Terra Mystica:

Z-Man Games Inc. is the publisher of the critically acclaimed board game Terra Mystica. Terra Mystica is a strategy game where players take on the roles of different fantasy races and compete to build the most powerful civilization.

🎬 – B-movie card game series:

Z-Man Games Inc. has a series of card games based on B-movies, including Grave Robbers From Outer Space and Cannibal Pygmies in the Jungle of Doom. These games are known for their quirky themes and humorous gameplay.

Option #12. Rio Grande Games

Board game publisher, Rio Grande Games, located in Placitas, New Mexico, has had a significant impact on the board gaming industry in the United States. Their goal is to promote games that give players options, and they specialize in publishing strategy games for adults and families.

Rio Grande Games encourages social activity among families and friends, which is a crucial aspect of their mission. They believe that playing good games together is an excellent way for families to spend quality time. By offering games that require players to make choices on each turn, Rio Grande Games promotes the importance of decision-making skills. They believe that the lessons children learn while playing their games will carry over into their lives, teaching them that making good choices leads to positive outcomes.

Rio Grande Games has published more than 350 games, including popular titles such as Carcassonne, Puerto Rico, Power Grid, Dominion, Bohnanza, Race for the Galaxy, and Lost Cities. The company primarily imports and localizes foreign language German-style board games, but they have also begun publishing their own games and licensing their games to partners in other countries.

Jay Tummelson founded Rio Grande Games in 1998, and they take a unique approach to localization by using the same artwork and components as the original games and sharing the cost of printing with European publishers. This approach has allowed Rio Grande Games to publish award-winning games such as Dominion, Zooloretto, Thurn and Taxis, Niagara, Power Grid, Alhambra, Carcassonne, Torres, Tikal, Elfenland, Mississippi Queen, and El Grande.

Rio Grande Games offers a wide variety of games for all ages, from younger children to teens and adults. They publish their own games and import multi-lingual games in English, French, and occasionally other languages. With their dedication to promoting the playing of games that offer players choices, Rio Grande Games has become a leading board game company in the industry.

Here are some of Rio Grande’s popular titles and what you need to know about them:

🚀 – Race for the Galaxy: A fast-paced card game where players build galactic civilizations by playing cards that represent worlds or technological and social developments. The game has multiple paths to victory, making it highly replayable.

🏰 – Dominion: A deck-building game where players compete to build the most efficient deck of cards. The game has a medieval theme and features a variety of cards with different abilities and effects.

🌴 – Puerto Rico: A strategy game where players take on the roles of colonial governors on the island of Puerto Rico. The game involves managing resources, building structures, and shipping goods to Europe.

🐑 – Carcassonne: A tile-laying game where players build a medieval landscape by placing tiles that represent cities, roads, and fields. The game also features meeples, which are small wooden figures that players can use to claim features on the board. Do note that this version is indeed a different release as that from Z-Man Games, Inc.

Option #13. Stonemaier Games

Stonemaier Games is a publisher of tabletop games that has gained a reputation for creating enjoyable, visually appealing, and memorable games that bring happiness to tabletops all over the world. The company is led by Jamey Stegmaier with the assistance of co-founder Alan Stone, Director of Communications Joe Aubrey, Director of Sales Alex Schmidt, and a variety of skilled independent contractors, volunteers, and fans. Stonemaier Games is headquartered in St. Louis and has a global distribution network that includes brands such as Viticulture, Euphoria, Between Two Cities, Scythe, Charterstone, My Little Scythe, Between Two Castles of Mad King Ludwig, Wingspan, Tapestry, Pendulum, Red Rising, and Rolling Realms.

Stonemaier Games has a fundamental principle of inclusivity, striving to engage the imaginations of all kinds of people, including seasoned gamers, new gamers, solo gamers, partners, larger groups, people of all ethnicities, genders, creeds, cultures, nations, sexualities, and ages. The company also seeks to add value to fellow creators by sharing entrepreneurial successes, mistakes, and insights, and takes steps in its manufacturing process and charitable efforts to enhance the environmental sustainability of its games.

One of the unique features of Stonemaier Games is its game design principles, which are guidelines that the company adheres to when designing and developing games. One of these principles is quick setup and start, which values a streamlined setup with minimal pre-game choices. This is evident in games like Between Two Castles and Between Two Cities, which are designed for easy setup. The company believes that a streamlined setup is essential to help a game get to the table more often, and it is a crucial factor in making a game accessible to a wider audience.

Another game design principle that Stonemaier Games follows is tension and positive player interaction, not hostility. The company believes that games should create tension and excitement, but not at the expense of player interaction. This is evident in games like Scythe, where players compete for resources and territory, but the game encourages players to interact positively with each other. The company believes that games should bring people together, not drive them apart.

In conclusion, Stonemaier Games is a company that values inclusivity, sustainability, and game design principles that prioritize accessibility and positive player interaction. The company’s games are known for their beautiful design, engaging gameplay, and ability to bring people together. If you’re looking for a game that is easy to set up, encourages positive player interaction, and is accessible to a wide audience, Stonemaier Games is a company worth checking out.

Stonemaier Games is a well-known board game company that has produced many popular games. One of their most famous games is Scythe, which has won numerous awards and has been translated into many languages.

🎖️ – Scythe: Scythe has won many awards, including the Golden Geek Award for Best Board Game Artwork/Presentation in 2016.

🐦 – Wingspan: Wingspan has won many awards, including the Kennerspiel des Jahres in 2019 and a Golden Geek Award in 2020.

⏰ – Pendulum: Pendulum is a real-time strategy game that uses an innovative time-based mechanic. It was designed by Travis Jones and was released in 2020.

📚 – Red Rising: Red Rising is a board game based on the popular book series of the same name. It was designed by Jamey Stegmaier and Alexander Schmidt and was released in 2021. The game has been praised for its unique gameplay and its faithful adaptation of the source material.

Option #14. Czech Games Edition

Board game company, Czech Games Edition (CGE), was established in 2007 in the Czech Republic. This company is enthusiastic about creating fun games for players and has released over 40 games and expansions, including popular titles like Codenames, Alchemists, Tzolk’in, and Dungeon Petz.

CGE is recognized for publishing games made by Czech and Slovak authors, such as Vlaada Chvátil, Vladimír Suchý, and Matúš Kotry. The company believes in supporting local talent and displaying their creativity to the world. They have also ventured into digital board games with the implementation of Galaxy Trucker, Through the Ages, and Codenames. The company’s digital team is constantly working to bring their popular titles to a wider audience through online platforms.

One unique aspect of CGE’s portfolio is their entry into publishing novels. In 2017, the company released their first novel, Galaxy Trucker: Rocky Road by Jason A. Holt. The story is set in the silly Galaxy Trucker universe and adds a new dimension to the game’s lore.

CGE faced difficulties in 2020 due to the pandemic, but they adapted by focusing on solo games such as Under Falling Skies and Sanctum Singleplayer, as well as creating a free online version of Codenames to connect with remote players. Overall, Czech Games Edition is a company that values creativity, innovation, and supporting local talent. Their passion for board games is evident in the quality of their products and their commitment to expanding the reach of their games through digital platforms.

Here are some interesting facts about CGE and some of their games:

🎲 – Through the Ages: A New Story of Civilization:

Through the Ages: A New Story of Civilization is a strategy board game that has won many awards, including International Gamers Awards in 2007 and Game of the Year in Poland in 2010. The game has been praised for its depth and complexity, as well as its ability to simulate the rise and fall of civilizations.

🚀 – Galaxy Trucker:

Galaxy Trucker is a fast-paced, sci-fi themed board game that has players building spaceships and navigating through dangerous space environments. The game has a unique mechanic where players must build their ships quickly and under time pressure, which adds to the excitement and challenge of the game.

🕵️‍♂️ – Codenames:

Codenames is a popular party game that has players giving one-word clues to their teammates in order to guess the correct words on a grid. The game has won many awards, including the Spiel des Jahres award in 2016, which is one of the most prestigious awards in the board game industry.

🗺️ – Lost Ruins of Arnak:

Lost Ruins of Arnak is a more recent release from Czech Games Edition that has been praised for its combination of deck-building and exploration mechanics. The game has a unique theme of exploring a mysterious island and discovering ancient ruins, which adds to the immersive experience of the game. Lost Ruins of Arnak has received many positive reviews and has quickly become a fan favorite among board game enthusiasts.

Option #15. Days of Wonder

Board game publisher, Days of Wonder, has been around since 2002. They are known for creating high-quality board games that are family-friendly and easy to learn. The company has a global presence and can be found in 25 countries, with offices in the US and Europe. Days of Wonder has published games in various languages such as Dutch, English, French, German, Greek, and Russian.

The company’s main goal is to make board games as popular as movies. They want to help people rediscover the excitement and wonder they felt as children when playing new games. Days of Wonder has a unique approach to game development, only releasing a limited number of new games each year. They have a team of experts who consistently produce hits such as Ticket to Ride, Small World, and Memoir ’44, with uncompromising board game production values and in-house digital development.

Ticket to Ride is the world’s best-selling train game and won the Spiel des Jahres in 2004, making Days of Wonder the youngest publisher to win Germany’s prestigious game prize. The game is now available in digital versions on various platforms. Small World is a legendary fantasy game that won three awards, including “Best Game of the Year,” “Best Family Game,” and “Best Game Artwork” from the Dice Tower Gaming Awards in 2009. Memoir ’44 is a World War II saga with 20 expansions.

Days of Wonder board games are available in 40 countries, and their digital versions can be found on various platforms. The company has sold over 5 million board games and hosted over 45 million games online. Days of Wonder consistently raises the bar in the board game industry, and it remains a top choice for families and game enthusiasts alike.

Here are some interesting facts about Days of Wonder and their popular board games:

🃏 – Gang of Four: A popular card game created by Days of Wonder that is based on the Chinese game of Choh Dai Di. The game is played with a standard deck of cards and can be played with 3-6 players. The objective of the game is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards.

🚂 – Ticket to Ride: One of the most popular board games created by Days of Wonder, Ticket to Ride is a strategy game that involves building train routes across North America. The game can be played with 2-5 players and has won numerous awards since its release in 2004.

🗡️ – Shadows Over Camelot: A cooperative board game created by Days of Wonder that is based on the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. The game can be played with 3-7 players and involves completing quests and battling against the forces of evil.

🎖️ – Memoir 44: A historical board game created by Days of Wonder that is based on the events of World War II. The game can be played with 2 players and involves recreating famous battles from the war, such as the D-Day invasion and the Battle of the Bulge. The game has won numerous awards since its release in 2004.

Option #16. Renegade Game Studios

Renegade Game Studios is a company that is devoted to publishing games that are not only enjoyable, but also stimulating and exceptional. The company’s objective is to offer games that are easy to understand for everyone, regardless of their gaming background. Renegade has been triumphant in accomplishing this objective, as demonstrated by the release of their award-winning products.

One of the main features of Renegade Game Studios is their dedication to creating games that are not only amusing, but also thought-provoking. The company trusts that gaming is for everyone, and that everyone is a gamer, they just might not have found the right game yet. This belief is shown in the wide range of games that Renegade produces, from strategic games like Lanterns: The Harvest Festival and Clank! A Deck-Building Adventure, to family games like Kitty Paw and The Fox in the Forest, to RPGs like Overlight and Kids on Bikes.

Renegade Game Studios was established in 2014 by industry veteran Scott Gaeta, who has over 20 years of experience in the gaming industry. Gaeta’s experience has allowed Renegade to gain a foothold in the industry immediately, releasing award-winning products and sparking a new era of casual games. Prior to founding Renegade, Gaeta co-founded Cryptozoic Entertainment, a company that produced a range of tabletop games and expansions.

Renegade Game Studios has rapidly become a leading player in the board game industry, with a reputation for producing high-quality games that are both easy to understand and challenging. The company’s commitment to creating games that are enjoyable, challenging, and unique has made them a favorite among gamers of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, Renegade Game Studios has a game that’s perfect for you.

Here are some interesting facts about the company and their games:

🐉 – Clank!: Clank! is a deck-building adventure game that has players exploring a dungeon while trying to avoid making too much noise (or “clank”) and alerting the dragon. The game has won multiple awards and has several expansions available.

🦸‍♂️ – Power Rangers: Heroes of the Grid: Renegade Game Studios has partnered with Hasbro to create a cooperative board game based on the popular Power Rangers franchise. In the game, players take on the roles of different Power Rangers and work together to defeat the evil villains.

🏮 – Lanterns: Lanterns: The Harvest Festival is a tile-placement game where players try to earn the most honor by dedicating sets of lantern cards. The game has a beautiful art style and has won multiple awards, including the 2015 Mensa Select Winner award.

🐾 – Kitty Paw: Kitty Paw is a dexterity game where players race to complete different patterns using cat-shaped pieces. The game has several different modes and difficulty levels, making it fun for all ages. Renegade Game Studios has also released a sequel to the game called Kitty Paw: Valentine’s Day Edition.

Future Trends in the Board Game Industry

The future of the board game industry is looking bright with several trends emerging. Crowdfunding has become a popular platform for funding board games, allowing game designers to bring their ideas to life with the support of the general public. Millennials are also driving the growth of board games as a socializing activity, seeking face-to-face interactions and a break from digital devices. Technological advancements are also being made in board games, with the integration of mobile apps and other digital features enhancing the player’s experience. With these trends and the continued popularity of board games, the industry has the potential for continued success and growth in the coming years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the board game market has experienced rapid expansion recently and is projected to rise at a CAGR of 13.27% between 2022 and 2028. The market is dominated by major players who offer a wide range of products and services to cater to the diverse needs of gameboard consumers. These tabletop game companies play a crucial role in the gaming industry, providing job opportunities and innovative products that enhance the player’s experience. Looking ahead, the future outlook for the board game industry is promising, with continued growth and potential for new and unique ideas to capture the attention of consumers. So, if there’s ever been a great time to get into gameboards, it is probably now. We hope you’ve enjoyed our board game industry round-up. Join the board game revolution today and get your game on!