How to Make Board Games More Inclusive for Players

27 October 2025

Board games are one of the few things that can bring people together across every walk of life — friends, family, coworkers, and even total strangers. But here's the kicker: not everyone feels welcome at the table. And that? That’s a problem.

Let’s face it, board games have historically catered to a pretty narrow group of people. Whether it’s the themes, the characters, the rules, or even the physical design, some players are unintentionally excluded from the fun. So how do we change that? How do we open up the board game community so everyone — yes, everyone — can pull up a chair and feel like they belong?

Well, that’s what we’re diving into today. Grab your tokens and shuffle your deck — here’s how to make board games more inclusive for players.

Why Inclusion in Board Games Matters

Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why.

Board games are more than just leisure; they’re a reflection of the world around us. When games are inclusive, they encourage empathy, bring people closer, and create a sense of belonging. But when they’re not? It can feel like an invisible “No Entry” sign.

Inclusivity isn’t about ticking a box. It’s about making sure everyone has a fair shot at having a great experience. From gender representation to accessibility for disabilities, inclusive games say: “You matter. You deserve to be here.”

And the cool part? Everyone benefits. Diverse perspectives lead to richer gameplay, more creativity, and, frankly, a lot more fun.

Start with the Theme and Narrative

Ever played a game set in a medieval fantasy world where everyone was a white dude with a sword? Yeah, that’s kind of the stereotype. Don’t get us wrong — dragons and castles are awesome — but when every game starts looking the same, it sends a message about who belongs in that world.

Mix Up Your Characters

Representation starts with who shows up in the game. Include characters of different cultures, genders, body types, and abilities. Got a pirate game? Great! Why not have a pirate in a wheelchair? Creating a sci-fi crew? Make sure they're as diverse as the galaxy they’re exploring.

When players see themselves in the game, it creates a magical connection. It says, “This world is yours too.”

Reconsider the Setting

Think beyond the usual tropes. Not every game has to be set in feudal Europe or space. Explore non-Western cultures, everyday relatable settings, or futuristic societies that actually look like the real world.

A fresh narrative isn’t just more inclusive, it’s also way more interesting. Who wouldn’t want to play a strategy game based on African folklore or a co-op game set in a bustling South American city?

Design Rules with Everyone in Mind

Game mechanics might seem neutral, but spoiler: they’re not always. Sometimes, the very way a game plays can exclude people, even if it’s unintentional.

Simplify Without Dumbing Down

Complexity isn’t a bad thing — many gamers love a strategy-heavy challenge. But layers upon layers of rules can be a barrier to newcomers, especially those with learning disabilities or non-native language speakers.

Use clear, concise language in your rulebook. Include visual examples. Better yet? Add QR codes linking to video tutorials. Not everyone learns best by reading pages of text.

Offer Flexible Difficulty

Games that let players adjust difficulty levels or choose different paths to victory are more inclusive by nature. Maybe one player thrives on resource management, while another prefers narrative choices. Let them play to their strengths.

It’s kind of like going to a buffet — different tastes, same table.

Make It Accessible to All Abilities

This is a big one, and there’s no excuse not to consider it. Accessibility isn’t a luxury; it’s essential.

Consider Color Blindness

A good chunk of the population is colorblind in some form. If your game relies heavily on color-coded pieces or cards — red vs. green, anyone? — you’re accidentally excluding players.

Use patterns, textures, or symbols alongside color. Don’t make color the only way someone can tell what’s what.

Think About Physical Limitations

Not everyone can handle tiny tokens or cards, especially players with arthritis, limited mobility, or tremors. Use larger pieces, tactile elements, or tools like card holders.

And don’t forget the board layout — ensure it’s reachable from all angles, especially for wheelchair users.

Offer Audio and Visual Aids

Some players may be hard of hearing or visually impaired. Including audio guides, braille elements, or app integrations can go a long way. Even a simple closed-captioning option in a companion app can open doors.

Language Matters — A Lot

Let’s talk about the words you use in your game. Language has power, and it can either be a bridge or a barrier.

Avoid Gendered Assumptions

If your rulebook refers to every player as “he,” it’s time for a rewrite. Use they/them pronouns or default to inclusive language like “player” or “leader.”

Same goes for character roles. Don’t assign stereotypical traits based on gender — let the burly warrior be a woman. Let the genius inventor be non-binary. It’s your game world. Make it open.

Be Mindful of Cultural References

Not every player is going to get your inside joke about a 1980s sitcom or a U.S.-specific holiday. Be careful with humor or references that only resonate with a narrow audience.

Strive to make jokes, stories, and examples that are universally fun or have context clues so everyone feels in on the fun.

Encourage Cooperative and Non-Competitive Play

Not everyone loves competition — and that’s okay.

Try Cooperative Mechanics

In co-op games, players work together toward a shared goal. This creates a team atmosphere and reduces anxiety for players who feel overwhelmed by competitive pressure.

Games like Pandemic or Forbidden Island are fantastic examples. They show that victory is sweeter when shared, and defeat stings a lot less when you’re in it together.

Offer Modifiable Roles

Some players love being the leader. Others? Not so much. Let roles be adaptable. Maybe someone tracks resources while another manages events. Let people play to their comfort zone.

This makes the game more inviting for people with social anxiety or neurodiverse players who might interact differently.

Involve the Community in Game Development

One of the best ways to make your game more inclusive? Ask the people you're trying to include.

Playtest with Diverse Groups

Don’t just rely on feedback from your usual circle. Seek out players of different races, abilities, incomes, nationalities, and experience levels. Invite them to test your game and really listen to what they say.

That outsider perspective? It’s gold.

Hire Diverse Designers

Representation behind the scenes is just as important. When developers come from different backgrounds, it naturally shapes the game in unique, inclusive ways.

Game design isn’t done in a bubble — it’s a team sport. And the more diverse the team, the better the game.

Embrace Digital Tools for Inclusion

Let’s not pretend that the analog and digital worlds are separate anymore. They’re like peanut butter and jelly — better together.

Companion Apps Enhance Accessibility

Apps can read out rules, track game stats for players with memory difficulties, or replace dice rolls with taps for people who can’t easily grip objects.

And if you’re worried about losing the “board” in board games? Don’t be. Digital tools should support the physical game, not replace it.

Online Communities Matter

When designing a game or building a community around it, remember that forums, Discord groups, and virtual playspaces are part of the overall experience.

Moderate these spaces to keep them safe from harassment, and make sure they’re welcoming to all voices — not just the loudest.

Final Thoughts: Inclusion is an Ongoing Game

Making board games more inclusive isn’t something you do once and check off the list. It’s like a game in itself — you try new strategies, make adjustments, and always, always listen to your fellow players.

The goal isn’t perfection. It’s progress. And every change you make — no matter how small — helps someone feel more welcome, more seen, and more excited to play.

So whether you're a game designer, a publisher, or just someone who loves hosting board game nights, you’ve got a role to play in this movement.

Let’s make the table longer, the rules fairer, and the games better. Because everyone deserves a seat — and a say — at board game night.