Tech has made mindless entertainment easier than ever—as we can all attest from tapping away stress on our phones on the daily—but when was the last time you sat down to a classic, hands-on board game? Whether you're getting the girls together or spending some one-on-one time with your bestie, it's a great way to make some memories while also handing your competitive side the spotlight.

And with National Board Game Day on April 11 and spring in the air, there's no better time to dust off some of your old faves—and discover some new ones. But you don't have to take our word for it: Read on for so many reasons to celebrate the day, as well as tips for making your game night the ultimate.

You get a break from your screens.

Between work, school, mindless scrolling, and content binging on screens of every size, let's face it, you're clocking wayyyy too much screen time. Commit to giving your thumbs (and your brain) a break by agreeing to a phone pile, or just enacting "do not disturb" mode before you kick off game play. Then slow down and enjoy your much-needed digital detox.

It's an inexpensive way to spend a night in.

A night out? In this economy? Home time with a good old-fashioned board game is a super-affordable way to have fun and still be, you know, social on a Friday night. Slip into your coziest sweats, grab a handful of snacks, and let the JOMO commence.

There's a new board game from Friskies that's totally cat-lady-coded.

Cat lovers, we are so back. Friskies, the well-loved cat food and treats brand, just released a brand-new board game, "Adventures in Friskies World" inspired by who else? Our favorite feline BFFs.

purina
Courtesy of Purina

It’s just the kind of game cat ladies (and dads) plus board game enthusiasts will love. Created by board game expert Ellie Dix with insights from Purina behaviorist Dr. Anna Valuska, the game will bring out your competitive side while you channel all your feline energy and belt out a “meow” or two. (Now, we’ve got your attention!) The aim is to earn the most Stars to be crowned the winner (obvi)—and here’s how: Players take turns rolling dice, exploring pathways in Friskies World, completing activities (each named after a Friskies line—get ready for the Seafood Sensations Underwater Search), collecting food tokens, and trading ingredients to feed Hungry Kittens.

purina
Courtesy of Purina
Chin scratches are a cute and effective way to distract your opponent.

And while the game is designed for humans, it also leaves no kitty behind, featuring a special toy for your cat as well as something close to every feline’s heart: the cardboard box it comes in. You can purchase "Adventures in Friskies World" ($24.99) now at boardgame.friskies.com while supplies last.

It's a reminder of simpler times.

Face-to-face interaction is super-underrated, especially in 2025. And board games are an age-transcending way to reconnect and socialize. Perhaps you need a subtle and lighthearted way to build rapport in a new relationship, or are looking to spend some quality time with the aunt you haven't seen for months. (Everyone knows it's a great way to get the fam together, too.) If you've got a group, try teaming up by astrological signs, or put generations up against one another.

Use the opportunity to get to know one another better, live out a murder mystery, or—and we're just spitballing here—make it all about cats and let the purr-fect games begin.