TL;DR
Board is a large 24-inch tabletop gaming device that combines a touchscreen with physical game pieces and ships with 12 free titles. It offers a novel local multiplayer experience but is costly ($699), has a limited initial game library, and requires being plugged in with a short power cable.
What happened
A recent hands-on review evaluated Board, a 24-inch tabletop console that blends video-game‑style touchscreen software with physical plastic pieces for in-room multiplayer play. The unit includes a removable wood-effect magnetic frame, built-in speakers, and support for multiple fingers and pieces at once. The review noted an included bundle of 12 free games spanning co-op, puzzle, arcade, and strategy genres, with at least 10 additional paid titles promised for 2026. Examples from the launch library include Chop Chop (an Overcooked-like co-op kitchen game), Save the Bloogs (Lemmings-style platforming), Strata (Tetris/Chess-inspired territory play), Omakase (sushi-themed head-to-head), and a digital pet called Mushka. Some anticipated titles—Spycraft and Thrasos—were still listed as coming soon. The device must remain plugged into power; the review flagged a short cable that created a tripping hazard. Overall reaction in the reviewer’s household was mixed: the reviewer liked the concept, but older teens found many games unengaging.
Why it matters
- Blends physical game pieces with a touchscreen for local, in-person multiplayer experiences distinct from standard consoles and tablets.
- Could open a new platform opportunity if third-party developers and a larger library follow, since platform success depends heavily on software.
- No subscription requirement makes added titles a straightforward purchase decision, but the initial cost and unclear additional-game pricing matter for buyers.
- Design choices—large size, mains-only power, and a short cable—affect where and how families can use and store the device.
Key facts
- Display: 24-inch touchscreen with multi-touch and multi-piece recognition.
- Hardware: removable magnetic wood-effect frame and built-in speakers; unit is large and heavy.
- Included software: 12 games provided at launch; at least 10 more titles promised for 2026 (paid).
- Price: listed at $699.
- No subscription is required for the platform.
- Wi‑Fi is used for downloading games and updates; there is no online multiplayer capability.
- Launch titles include Chop Chop, Save the Bloogs, Board Arcade, Strata, Omakase and Mushka; Spycraft and Thrasos are listed as coming soon.
- Physical game pieces are supplied in labeled plastic bags; Board Arcade is noted as reusing pieces across games.
- Reviewer concerns included short power cable creating a tripping hazard and questions about long-term durability (minor scratch from a cat claw reported).
- Mixed household reception: reviewer enjoyed Board, but teen family members found many games boring.
What to watch next
- Arrival schedule and pricing for the additional games promised for 2026 (timing and cost remain unclear).
- Whether the company secures third-party developers and how a potential SDK or developer support unfolds.
- Long-term durability and how the device holds up to frequent, energetic family play.
- not confirmed in the source
Quick glossary
- Touchscreen: A display that responds to touch input from fingers or compatible objects to control software interfaces.
- SDK (Software Development Kit): A set of tools and documentation that lets developers create software for a particular platform or device.
- Local multiplayer: Games designed to be played together in the same physical space rather than over the internet.
- Physical-digital hybrid: A product or game that combines tangible pieces or components with digital software interaction.
- Platform: The underlying hardware and software ecosystem on which games or applications run; a platform’s success often depends on the breadth of its software library.
Reader FAQ
How many games come with Board?
The device ships with 12 free games; the maker has promised at least 10 more paid titles in 2026.
Does Board require a subscription?
No subscription is required.
Can you play online multiplayer on Board?
No — Wi‑Fi is used for downloads and updates only; online multiplayer is not available.
Is Board portable or battery powered?
The unit must be plugged into the wall and has a short cable; it is large and intended to sit on a table.
Will more third‑party games be available?
The company discussed plans for an SDK and potential third‑party development, but the scale and timing of third‑party support are not confirmed in the source.
SIMON HILL GEAR JAN 13, 2026 7:00 AM Review: Board Tabletop Game Console I loved Board’s unique blend of tabletop gaming, but my family gave it mixed reviews. COURTESY OF…
Sources
- Board Review: Tabletop Video Games With Physical Pieces
- 'Board' “Console” – Digital Board Game Device
- This New Gaming Console Wants to Replace Your Board …
- Hands on with Board, the $700 video board game console …
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