What's Kensington's favourite board game

Table top games are having a resurgence in popularity with more and more people choosing to ditch their devices for a few hours of competitive, in-person fun.

Since its launch two years ago, the Games Library at Kensington Central Library has been bringing together experienced gamers and novices alike.

With International Games Week (Thursday 7 November to Thursday 14 November) in full swing, there's no better time to visit your local games library and experience the fun and thrill of tabletop gaming. All ages are welcome and you can find out all about gaming events taking place across Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster, as well as opening times and how to get games delivered to your nearest library on our website.

The games library has a collection of over 150 games available to play or loan - but what are the 10 most popular games played and loaned by library visitors to Kensington Central Library as of November 2024?

• 10. Kingdomino: Players build their own kingdoms in this domino-building game by strategically placing domino tiles. The game is enjoyable for families and experienced gamers because of its simple rules and engaging gameplay.
  
• 9. Codenames: Two rival spymasters carefully communicate by giving one-word clues to guide their teammates to correctly identify secret agents. Codenames is a game of word association and teamwork.
  
• 8. Ticket to Ride: Europe: Players collect sets of coloured train cars to claim railway routes connecting cities across Europe. This cross-country train adventure involves planning, route optimisation, and a touch of competition.
• 7. Carcassonne: Players build the medieval landscape of Carcassonne by strategically placing tiles and meeples (player pieces). Points are earned and the winner is determined by the strategic placement of tiles.
  
• 6. Cluedo: Players become detectives and use deduction, logic, and luck to piece together clues to solve the murder of Dr. Black. This classic murder mystery game needs no introduction.
  
• 5. Wingspan: Players work to attract birds to their wildlife preserves in this beautifully illustrated and engaging engine-building game. Wingspan combines strategy, science, and stunning visuals to create a unique and immersive gaming experience.
  
• 4. Sushi Go!: This fast-paced card drafting game invites players to collect the most delicious sushi sets, making it a feast for both the eyes and the mind. Sushi Go! features adorable artwork and strategic gameplay.
  
• 3. One Night Ultimate Werewolf: Deception, persuasion, and keen observation are key to victory in this social deduction game. Players take on secret roles with the goal of identifying the werewolves hiding among the villagers.
  
• 2. Dobble: Players race to find the matching symbol between two cards in this game of speed and observation. Dobble is a favourite for all ages due to its simple rules and quick rounds.
  
• 1. Exploding Kittens: Players try to avoid drawing the dreaded Exploding Kitten card in this highly strategic, kitty-powered version of Russian Roulette. This game guarantees laughter and suspense.

More than just fun, tabletop games offer countless benefits

• Socialisation: Tabletop games provide a platform for face-to-face interaction, fostering communication, cooperation, and friendly competition.
• Screen-free time: They offer a much-needed break from digital devices, encouraging people to enjoy each others' company away from their screens.
• Cognitive skills: Many games give a boost to cognitive skills like strategic thinking, problem-solving, memory, and attention span.

International Games Week reminds us how much fun can be had with tabletop gaming, and their power to bring people together, spark imagination, and create memories. If you want to get involved with International Games Week or find out more about the Games Library, visit our website for more information.