Board games are a pesky and persistent bunch. In a world where video games, smartphones, and on-demand streaming services are all vying for the attention of young and old alike, the lure of spending a night or rainy afternoon locked in an epic board game battle remains stronger than ever.

If you're looking to build your collection or pull your family away from night after night of screen time, here's a quick rundown on how to find the best board games for you and your friends or family.

Types of Board Games

Family, party, and kids board games are usually among the most popular types, but that's only the tip of the iceberg. Strategy games replace the luck of the draw and roll of the dice with a need for intellect and cunning. Combat board games are similar to strategy games but mix in a pinch or two of unpredictability. And cooperative board games require all players to band together and work toward a common goal.

Fun for All Ages

Gone are the days when board games were primarily child's play. Sure, you'll find no shortage of board games for kids and families with young children, but you can also find plenty of board games for adults only and every age group in between. Hosting a Saturday night bash with your twenty-something friends? Nothing keeps the laughs going like an edgy party board game.

Board Games Can Accommodate a Various Number of Players

Before you start stocking up on stacks and stacks of fun board games, it's important to know how many players you can expect to participate. Pay special attention to the number of players each game you're looking at can accommodate. Even if your group is small, there are plenty of fun 2-player board games to choose from.

Cater To Large Groups With Expansion Sets

If your group is larger than the number of supported players, there may be an expansion set available for the game. Expansion sets add more content and game pieces to the base game, and often allow more players to participate.