11 Mostly Classic Game Gift Ideas for the Family Holidays

Holidays are a time of spending time with your family, and what better way to spend time than to have family game nights? These not only make great gifts for the kids, but if you are anything like me, you may give a family gift or two under the tree, and these are perfect.  

These eleven-game gift ideas are sure to please everyone in the family. Most are classic games, while a few are newer to the line-up.

Water Gel Gun

A water gel gun is a toy gun that shoots out a gooey substance that looks like water. The goo is actually a viscous liquid polymer. It doesn’t really shoot out in droplets, but instead in long strings of gel which can be used to make slime or to create other shapes.

This toy is not new and has been around for decades. The first patent for this toy was filed in 1972 by inventor Robert A. Cox Jr., who wanted to create a more sanitary alternative to the Super Soaker’s air pressure system that could be used in hospitals and laboratories.

Catch the Flag

Catch the Flag, is an older game with a new twist. An exciting alternative to laser tag, flashlight tag, light-up LED balls, lawn games, even airsoft or paintball. You can enjoy this game in the summer or if you live in a warmer state, almost any time of the year. Purchase here from my Amazon affiliate link: https://www.amazon.com/Capture-Flag-REDUX-Nighttime-Birthdays/dp/B00XK9C4H0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Game+Gift+Ideas&qid=1572647151&sr=8-1&linkCode=sl1&tag=-&linkId=5705be8a8ff4db1ad59f537e74742d6f&language=en_US

Candyland

There is just something about playing Candyland with the little ones. It is fun to see them match colors and get excited, the closer they get to the castle. There is no reading required in this game so that preschool children can enjoy it too for kids ages three and up. Bring back memories with this sweet game. 

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Chutes and Ladders

Chutes and Ladders is another fun game for kids ages three years old and up. Like Candyland, there is no reading required, so the little ones will be able to play too. This game is great for 2-4 players, and the kids can practice their numbers as well as counting, which helps with number recognition while they make their way to the top, and not end up sliding down the slides on their way to the top.

Another classic that the kids are sure to love.

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Connect 4

Connect 4 is only for two players. It is like a cross between tic-tac-toe and checkers. If you have more than two players, it is fun to see who wins and then have them play the next player in line. Or if it is a rainy day, two kids can keep busy trying to get four in a row. The other beautiful thing is that it is affordable, which you can check out here.

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Operation

Is there a doctor in the house? If so, Operation is the game you will want to gift this year. It is a game of skill and chance. There are multiple versions of this game, but the original is by far the best, and it will keep your kids six years old and above busy. Who doesn’t enjoy trying to get the little pieces out from Cavity Sam? If you hit the sides, his nose will light up, and the game will buzz, so use your skill and get them out.

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Mouse Trap 

Who wants to trap a mouse? The object of this game is not to have your mouse get trapped. Take turns building the mousetrap while moving around the gameboard. Use the trap to capture your opponents’ mice. This game is for 2 to 4 players and fun for kids ages six and up. 

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KerPlunk 

KerPlunk is a fun game from 1967. Now it has a fresh new look, so the kids will think it is a new game to try out. The object of the game is to skillfully remove the sticks from the tube while dropping the fewest marbles possible. Just don’t let your marbles drop! This one is perfect for ages five and up, and 2-4 players. Simple yet fun for the whole family.

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Pictionary 

Pictionary combines drawing and clues for an evening of guessing and laughter. Now Pictionary comes with markers and little whiteboards, which eliminates the need for paper and waste. Don’t worry. You don’t have to be artistic to play, that is half of the fun. Perfect for 2-4 players with 120 adult cards and 80 Junior cards. Fun for the whole family.

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Simon 

Follow the lights and sounds and see how far you can get in the sequence with Simon. Follow the lights and sounds while the game keeps track of who is winning. Make sure you have 3 AA batteries on hand as it comes with demo batteries, but you never know how long they will last.

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Twister 

Twister anyone? Take off your shoes and play in just your socks. Spin the spinner, so you know where your next food or hand will go. Don’t get too twisted, or you might fall, and then you are out of the game. Great for parties, or your usual family game night festivities. Easy to store for the next game night your family has. Who will be the reigning champion tonight?

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Game nights can be fun and a break from electronics and TV in the house. Spending time as a family or with friends will be something you will not regret. 

I hope you enjoy a few of these classic game gift ideas.