The winners of the Spiel des Jahres 2026 awards have officially been announced!
Every year, the Spiel des Jahres celebrates the very best in tabletop gaming. While taking home the top prize is a huge achievement, the nominated and recommended games are often just as exciting. Plenty of past nominees have gone on to become fan favourites, and this year's lineup looks no different!
So, although DITO! (otherwise known as JinxO) has claimed the crown, there are several other games that deserve a place on your wishlist. Here are the standout titles that caught our eye!
Cozy Stickerville is bursting with charm!
If you're a fan of relaxing games, this one should be right at the top of your list.
Cozy Stickerville was one of this year's Spiel des Jahres nominees, and it's easy to see why. Designed by Corey Konieczka, Cozy Stickerville invites you to build your own village, welcome new residents, solve mysteries, and leave behind a personalized legacy.
It's relaxing, creative and incredibly welcoming. Whether you're playing solo or gathering the whole family around the table, there's something wonderfully satisfying about slowly building your perfect little world.
Let's heat it up...
Looking for something a little more energetic?
Hot Streak is a game for hard luck gamblers who love to bet on and scream at the racers, who in this case happen to be mascots who may (or may not) keep running in the right direction.
Hot Streak earned a recommendation from the Spiel des Jahres jury and promises fast rounds, quick thinking and plenty of laughs. Party games live and die by how quickly they can get people smiling, and Hot Streak looks like it has all the right ingredients. Whether it's family game night or an evening with friends, this is one to keep on your radar!
Slow things down with Take Time!
Take Time offers something completely different. As the name suggests, this is a game that encourages players to slow down, think carefully and simply enjoy the experience.
It is is a cooperative game where players either win or lose together. To succeed, you must strategically play 12 cards face down around a Clock, following specific rules for each Test.
It's a refreshing change of pace in a hobby that's often filled with frantic competition. Instead of racing to the finish, you'll find yourself making thoughtful decisions while appreciating the journey along the way.
If you enjoy games that let you unwind without stressing you out, Take Time could be exactly what you're looking for!
A fantastic year for board games!
Every Spiel des Jahres shortlist is packed with exciting ideas, and 2026 is no exception.
While DITO! walks away with the biggest prize, games like Cozy Stickerville, Hot Streak and Take Time prove that there are plenty of other gems worth discovering. Each brings something different to the table, whether that's cozy creativity, laugh-out-loud party gameplay or relaxed strategic fun.
If you're looking for your next board game obsession, this year's Spiel des Jahres selections are a great place to start. Don't be surprised if you see these titles popping up on game nights everywhere over the coming months!
