by Joanne Smedley

Created on: May 08, 2008   Last Updated: February 17, 2012

Children of the 80's grew up familiar with board games. After all, the only other option available back then was "pong" or "subbuteo"! These days the cupboards which would have contained many family board games are now over-run with computer games of various shapes and sizes.

But is there still a place for the good old family board games? Most definitely!

Family board games still exceed computer games in many different ways.

For a start: they promote interaction. In some board games this might take the form of competition, in others: team work. But whatever the game, the pace of the game is dictated by the players, not the console, and so conversation at all levels is possible.

Secondly : board games are versatile and adaptable. Adults can alter most family board games during play to accommodate even very young children, bending the rules slightly or helping them along so that they have an even chance of winning. Board games can easily be put on hold for dinner, or a weekend break, and most importantly you can cheat! (How many times have you wished you could do that with a computer - now be honest!)

Thirdly: board games play out differently every time. In strategy board games, it is your opponent(s) themselves that provide the change and challenge, in fun board games the random nature of chance will give all players an even possibility of winning.

Fourthly: board games can be educational. There are some very simple educational board games on the market that even 2 year olds can play which teach about colours, shapes, even sounds! And as a child ages, there are games available which will encourage problem solving, linguistic ability and general knowledge to name a few.

Last but by no means least - board games are fun!

Despite what advertisers would have us believe, board games still have their place today, despite our increase in usage of the Internet and games consoles. Don't believe me then google "online scrabble" and see just how many online board games sites there are out there. Answer - millions! In fact, despite the versatility of the Internet it seems that Internet board games are increasing in popularity why, because in most cases you are pitting yourself against another human being, and there is nothing like a bit of competition to get everyone's juices flowing!

So where would you start when equipping yourself with a cupboard of family board games?

Well, taking a look back again at the 80's, a quick peak in the living room cupboard would reveal the

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