Playing Cards And Board Games Market Summary

The global playing cards and board games market size was valued at USD 19.90 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 31.93 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.3% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing interest in indoor entertainment options, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, which encouraged families and friends to explore interactive and engaging ways to spend quality time at home. This behavioral shift led to a renewed appreciation for physical games as an alternative to digital entertainment.

The growing popularity of tabletop gaming conventions and community-driven gaming events has also played a significant role in expanding the market. These events attract a wide demographic of players, from casual gamers to dedicated enthusiasts, creating vibrant communities around board games and playing cards. This resurgence of tabletop and card games as a preferred mode of entertainment and recreation is expected to continue supporting long-term market growth. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on creating games with simple yet strategic mechanics, appealing narratives, and visually appealing artwork to attract a broader audience.

Additionally, the emergence and rapid growth of board game cafes across the globe is positively influencing market demand. These cafes offer consumers a social and immersive gaming environment, encouraging trial of new games and repeat visits. They have become especially popular among younger demographics and urban consumers looking for interactive social experiences beyond traditional entertainment venues.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• In 2024, board games held the largest revenue share of 73.4%, underlining their dominance in the overall playing cards and board games market. This can be attributed to their broad appeal across age groups and the consistent innovation in design, gameplay, and themes. From educational games for children to strategy-based games for adults, board games offer a wide variety of formats that cater to different user preferences, thus maintaining strong market relevance.
• Offline distribution channels led the industry with the largest revenue share in 2024. This continued dominance is due to the sustained popularity of conventional retail outlets, such as toy stores, hobby shops, bookstores, and large retail chains. These physical locations allow consumers to browse, interact with products firsthand, and receive personalized recommendations—factors that continue to support offline retail in the face of growing e-commerce.
• Asia Pacific emerged as the leading region in the global playing cards and board games market, accounting for a revenue share of 39.5% in 2024. The region benefits from a large and diverse population, a strong cultural emphasis on family-oriented entertainment, and a longstanding tradition of games. These factors, combined with increasing disposable income and urbanization, have made Asia Pacific a dominant force in the global market.
• North America was recognized as a lucrative market in 2024, supported by a notable resurgence in tabletop gaming and rising consumer interest in nostalgic and traditional entertainment formats. The region’s strong gaming culture, along with a well-established retail and distribution network, is fueling consistent market expansion.
• In the United States, the playing cards and board games industry is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period. This growth is driven by the country’s ongoing innovation in game development and the increasing popularity of family game nights and social gatherings centered around gaming activities. U.S. consumers show a high level of engagement with both classic and modern board games.
• Europe is also anticipated to register notable growth in the playing cards and board games market, with a projected CAGR of 7.6% over the forecast period. The region's long-established gaming culture, presence of dedicated gaming communities, and a wide range of conventions and events provide a strong foundation for continued growth in this market.

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Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 19.90 Billion
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 31.93 Billion
• CAGR (2025-2030): 8.3%
• Asia Pacific: Largest market in 2024

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some key companies in the playing cards and board games market include Games Workshop Limited, NECA/WizKids LLC (WizKids), IELLO, Grey Fox Games, Disney, and others. The leading players focus on product innovation to gain a greater market share. They launch new products with innovative concepts, layouts, and designs to attract more consumers.

• Grey Fox Games is a prominent publisher in the playing cards and board games industry, known for its high-quality and innovative game designs. Their product lineup includes a variety of engaging and strategic games, such as Champions of Midgard, Deception: Murder in Hong Kong, and After the Empire. These games often feature rich themes, intricate mechanics, and high production values, appealing to both casual and serious gamers.

Key Players

• Games Workshop Limited
• NECA/WizKids LLC (WizKids)
• Grey Fox Games
• Disney
• IELLO
• Buffalo Games
• University Games Corporation
• Delano Games
• LongPack Games
• Boda Games

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Conclusion

The global playing cards and board games market is witnessing significant growth driven by rising interest in social and recreational gaming experiences. The market benefits from innovation in game design, growing gaming communities, and the expansion of experiential venues like board game cafes. With strong demand from both developed and emerging regions, the industry is becoming increasingly diversified and dynamic. Offline retail continues to play a critical role in game discovery and purchases. As families and social groups prioritize screen-free entertainment, the appeal of traditional and modern tabletop games ensures the market’s positive outlook through the forecast period and beyond.