Forget trick-or-treating—this Halloween, bring the thrills indoors with a lineup of Good Housekeeping’s five best Halloween board games for families. Tested and selected for all ages, these spooky games promise laughter, strategy, and just the right amount of fright to make family game night unforgettable Good Housekeeping.

1. Pumpkin Golf

• Players: 2+
• Playtime: 10–20 minutes
• Why It’s Fun: Use mini “putters” to sink foam pumpkins into lit-up holes. Combines carnival fun with friendly competition.

2. Spider Cornhole

• Players: 2+
• Playtime: 15–30 minutes
• Why It’s Fun: Toss beanbags into spider-webbed boards. Simple rules, but the moving spider overlay adds a flicker of spooky challenge.

3. Haunted Mansion: Call of the Spirits

• Players: 2–4
• Playtime: 30–45 minutes
• Why It’s Fun: Based on Disney’s iconic ride, collect ghost cards while avoiding “haunt” pitfalls. Perfect for ages 8+ The Skillful Meeple.

4. Shadows in the Forest

• Players: 3–6
• Playtime: 20–40 minutes
• Why It’s Fun: One player guides glowing stones (the “light,” invisible to others) through the dark forest created by hiding opponents—exciting hide-and-seek meets strategy.

5. Onirim

• Players: Solo or 2
• Playtime: 10–30 minutes
• Why It’s Fun: Cooperative dreamscape adventure—find matching door cards before nightmares overwhelm. Its haunting art and tight gameplay make it a Halloween staple.

Conclusion

These five games—from quick Pumpkin Golf to immersive Shadows in the Forest—offer screen-free, cooperative or competitive thrills for every family. Gather around the table, dim the lights, and let the spooktacular game night begin!

Q&A Section

Q1: Which game is best for toddlers?
A1: Pumpkin Golf’s simple tossing mechanics are ideal for preschoolers and up.

Q2: Do any require special lighting?
A2: Shadows in the Forest shines brightest in low light for the glowing “light” mechanic, but others play fine under normal lamps.

Sources:

• Good Housekeeping’s “75 Frightfully Fun Games” list Good Housekeeping
• Skillful Meeple on Haunted Mansion game The Skillful Meeple