This festive season, forget the stiff conversations, the awkward pauses, and the “So… how’s work?” small talk.
There’s a new holiday essential taking over living rooms across South Africa — and it’s louder, sillier, and far more memorable than any punchline you prepared in advance.
Adult board games are officially the life of the party.
And according to Philip Galliford, spokesperson for leading toy and game distributor Solarpop, certain titles have risen from quiet cult favourites to full-blown comedic icons.
“Games like Horrible Therapist, Exploding Kittens, Unstable Unicorns, and Poetry for Neanderthals strike the perfect balance between wit and whimsy,” Galliford explains. “They’re designed to get people talking, laughing, and letting their guard down.”
These aren’t just games — they’re social chemistry experiments that guarantee laughter, chaos, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, visiting family, or hosting the end-of-year gathering everyone remembers, these titles bring the kind of joy money can’t usually buy.
Here are the top adult board games ready to electrify your holiday season.
Horrible Therapist
RRP: R699.00
Who knew therapy could be… horrible and hilarious?
This game turns intrusive thoughts into comedic gold as players create chaotic three-panel comics about the worst therapy sessions imaginable. You’ll laugh, gasp, and maybe feel slightly offended — but in the best possible way.
It’s quick to learn, dangerously funny, and the perfect warm-up for a night of unfiltered humour.
Exploding Kittens
RRP: R749.99
The name alone tells you everything — this one does not believe in subtlety.
A feline-fuelled twist on Russian Roulette, players draw cards until someone pulls an “exploding kitten” and is booted from the game… unless they’re saved by a Defuse Card offering distractions like laser pointers, belly rubs, or catnip sandwiches.
Every card in the deck is a tool to sabotage, strategise, or barely survive one more turn.
It’s ridiculous, clever, and dangerously addictive — a perfect blend of patience, betrayal, and bluffing.
Poetry for Neanderthals
RRP: R699.99
If you think speaking like a caveman is easy… think again.
From the absurd geniuses behind Exploding Kittens, this game forces players to give clues using single-syllable words only. Slip up and say a big word, and the opposing team gets the pleasure of bopping you with a giant inflatable NO! stick.
Example clue for “broccoli”?
“Green thing you eat for live long and have good health.”
The result: roars of laughter, frantic guessing, and unforgettable family showdowns.
Unstable Unicorns
RRP: R599.99
Unicorns aren’t cute here — they’re chaotic, magical, and ready to ruin friendships in the most entertaining way possible.
Players build their own unicorn army, collecting powerful creatures, protecting their stables, or unleashing magical revenge on opponents.
With over 20 Magical Unicorns to collect and plot with, the game blends strategy, sabotage, and absolute madness.
First to complete their unicorn army becomes The Righteous Ruler of All Things Magical… until the next game flips everything upside down again.
A Festive Season Fueled by Fun
If there’s one thing this lineup proves, it’s that adult board games have evolved into more than entertainment — they’re social engines, reconnecting people with humour, honesty, and the joy of simply being silly.
This holiday, bring the energy, bring the laughter, and let these games turn your celebrations into legend.
For more delightfully offbeat, witty, and laugh-out-loud titles, visit www.solarpop.co.za and follow @solarpopsouthafrica.
