What are the most popular board games in Israel?

While it's difficult to pinpoint the *absolute* most popular board games in Israel, here are some games that are commonly enjoyed and have strong communities:

Classic Games:

* Monopoly: A timeless classic, still enjoyed by families and friends.

* Scrabble: A popular word game, widely played in Hebrew.

* Backgammon: A traditional game, often played in cafes and homes.

Modern European-Style Games:

* Carcassonne: A tile-laying game with a strong following in Israel.

* Ticket to Ride: A popular train-themed game that's easy to learn.

* Codenames: A word association game that's fun for all ages.

* 7 Wonders: A card drafting game with a historical theme.

* Azul: A beautiful tile-laying game that's popular among families.

Locally-Developed Games:

* The Settlers of Catan: While German in origin, this game has a huge fan base in Israel and is often played in Hebrew.

* Hanabi: Another popular game designed by a Israeli game designer.

* The Great Siege of Jerusalem: A strategy game based on the history of Jerusalem.

Other Popular Games:

* Dixit: A storytelling card game with beautiful illustrations.

* Pandemic: A cooperative game where players work together to save the world from diseases.

* Sushi Go! Party!: A fast-paced card drafting game that's perfect for families.

Factors Influencing Popularity:

* Language: Games with Hebrew translations are naturally more popular in Israel.

* Accessibility: Games that are easy to learn and play quickly tend to attract a wider audience.

* Community: Games with strong communities often have more players and tournaments.

* Cultural Relevance: Games with themes or mechanics that resonate with Israeli culture may be more popular.

Ultimately, the most popular board games in Israel will vary based on personal preferences and social circles.