The best games where players can form alliances 2026

Looking for a really good game where players can form alliances? Then we have just the thing for you: the list of the best alliance games 2026.

What are alliance games?

Games where players form alliances players can have formal relationships with each other that can change over the course of the game.

Distinction from negotiation games

This differs from Negotiation Mechanism in that these relationships are governed by specific game rules. For example, in Dune, players can form alliances in each nexus phase that last until the next nexus phase. During this time, players win together, may not attack each other, and grant their ally a special power. In "Struggle of Empires", players bid for the right to choose their ally for that round, for which similar rules apply.

Differentiation from fixed teams in team-based games.

This also differs from team-based games in that alliances can potentially change during the game. If players must be allied for the entire game and win or lose together, it is a team-based game.

List of the best alliances games 2026

This list was last updated on June 11, 2026. There's also a print version for this list .
  1. Traitors Aboard
    3–8 10–30 min 10+ Immediately playable
    + 2 € above the best price
    16 € at Amazon*
  2. Cosmic Encounter

    Cosmic Encounter

    2008 Edition

    Cosmic Encounter is an iconic board game that combines elements of strategy, diplomacy, and unique alien powers, set in a dynamic universe of shifting alliances and interstellar conflict.

    All details & rating
    3–5 60–120 min 12+ Medium complexity
  3. Kameloot

    Kameloot

    Taverns, motivated merchants, and magical items are all you need to become the richest merchant. Choose wisely between the Howling Owl Tavern, where paladins and mages compete with wealthy traders, and the Black Cat Tavern, home to treacherous rogues and cunning wizards.

    All details & rating
    3–6 20–25 min 8+ Immediately playable
  4. Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy

    Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy

    2020 Edition

    Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy is an enhanced version of the original Eclipse game, first released in 2011. It's a grand strategy game set in the depths of space, where players lead their own interstellar civilizations to explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate.

    All details & rating
    2–6 60–200 min 14+ For connoisseurs
  5. Ankh: Gods of Egypt

    Ankh: Gods of Egypt

    Ankh: Gods of Egypt is a deeply thematic board game that immerses players in the ancient world of Egyptian mythology. In this game, players assume the roles of Egyptian gods vying for supremacy and survival in an era where the old ways and their followers are fading. The game stands out for its blend of strategic gameplay, stunning artwork, and detailed miniatures, offering a richly immersive experience.

    All details & rating
    2–5 90 min 14+ Medium complexity
    + 8 € above the best price
    105 € at Amazon*
  6. Rising Sun

    Rising Sun

    In the mystical realm of legendary feudal Japan, the forgotten Kami have arisen from the underworld, dissatisfied with the ruling Shōgun. As spring heralds the Great New Year, the sacred clans gather to embark on a quest to reclaim the lands of Nippon, restoring honor and spirituality. Honorable Shōgun, you lead one of these clans, navigating a delicate balance of diplomacy, alliances, and war in the pursuit of victory. Will you uphold the ancient promise with strength, virtue, and spirit in the board game Rising Sun?

    All details & rating
    3–5 90–120 min 14+ Medium complexity
  7. Sweet Existence: A Strange Planet Card Game

    Sweet Existence: A Strange Planet Card Game

    Millions of inhabitants have embraced the genius of Nathan W. Pyle's Strange Planet webcomic and book series. Players connect, experience life events, and collect sweet discs while avoiding the dreaded Perish field. Each card features a unique comic that showcases the characteristic humor and curiosity of the characters, making it a delightful and family-friendly party game for fans aged 13 and up.

    All details & rating
    4–8 15–40 min 13+ Immediately playable
  8. Pass Pass
    3–6 20–30 min 8+ Easy to learn
    3 € below the next retailer
    5 € at Amazon*
  9. Dune

    Dune

    Dune is a captivating board game that plunges players into the intricate and politically charged universe of Frank Herbert's iconic science fiction novel. This game is a blend of strategy, resource management, and negotiation, set on the harsh desert planet of Arrakis, also known as Dune.

    All details & rating
    2–6 120–180 min 14+ For connoisseurs
  10. A Game of Thrones: The Board Game

    A Game of Thrones: The Board Game

    Second Edition

    A Game of Thrones: The Board Game (Second Edition) is a strategy board game that immerses players in the world of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. It's a game of diplomacy, warfare, and intrigue, capturing the essence of the epic fantasy saga.

    All details & rating
    3–6 120–240 min 14+ For connoisseurs
    + 40 € above the best price
    89 € at Amazon*
  11. 7 Empires
    2–6 90–150 min 13+ Medium complexity
  12. A Game of Thrones: The Card Game

    A Game of Thrones: The Card Game

    Second Edition

    *Introduction to A Game of Thrones: The Card Game (Second Edition):*

    All details & rating
    2–4 60–120 min 14+ For connoisseurs
  13. Game of Thrones: The Iron Throne

    Game of Thrones: The Iron Throne

    Players command one of the Great Houses of Westeros, using iconic characters in epic battles and strategic planning. They negotiate, bluff, and form temporary alliances while competing for influence and ultimately the Iron Throne. Each round resolves encounters between two players, with opportunities for subterfuge and shifting loyalties that can change the outcome of the game. Winning enough encounters while managing alliances may lead to seizing the throne itself.

    All details & rating
    3–5 30–60 min 18+ Medium complexity
  14. Breaking Bad: The Board Game

    Breaking Bad: The Board Game

    Based on the critically acclaimed TV series, players enter the treacherous underworld of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Choose to be part of a criminal faction or join the Drug Enforcement Administration, aiming to produce and sell Blue Sky while eliminating rivals. Criminal players must sell their produced Blue Sky before others, while DEA agents work to confiscate labs and take down criminals.

    All details & rating
    3–8 60–120 min 18+ Medium complexity
  15. Tiny Epic Game of Thrones
    1–4 45–60 min 18+ Medium complexity
  16. Masters of The Universe: Fields of Eternia The Board Game

    Masters of The Universe: Fields of Eternia The Board Game

    Experience the fabulous splendor of 80s nostalgia as you travel through the mystical land of Eternia, commanding iconic heroes and villains. Play as your favorite characters like He-Man, Skeletor, and She-Ra, all crafted in stunning detail. Choose from various factions, each with unique abilities, and embark on quests to strengthen your characters while facing familiar enemies and monsters.

    All details & rating
    1–6 90–180 min 12+ Medium complexity
    + 6 € above the best price
    90 € at Amazon*
  17. Die Macher

    Die Macher

    Die Macher is a political strategy game for 3 to 5 players. You lead a national party through seven regional elections across Germany, and the party with the most victory points wins.

    All details & rating
    3–5 240 min 14+ For connoisseurs
  18. Campaign

    Campaign

    Waddingtons, 1971

    An exciting strategy game allows players to take on the roles of Napoleons or Wellingtons, leading their armies across Europe. Players can reenact famous battles and form or break alliances, all while navigating a strategically designed board that represents Europe and Western Russia.

    All details & rating
    2–4 120 min 10+ Easy to learn
  19. Total War: ROME – The Board Game
    1–4 180–240 min 10+ Medium complexity
  20. James Clavell's Whirlwind

    James Clavell's Whirlwind

    The game is based on James Clavell's novel "Whirlwind," set against the backdrop of the 1979 Iranian Revolution. Players act as mercenary helicopter pilots, conducting operations for a handsome fee paid into their Swiss bank accounts. As the revolution unfolds, players can choose to pledge loyalty to one side or the other to gain a share of the revolutionary spoils.

    All details & rating
    2–6 120–240 min 12+ Easy to learn

Didn't find the game you were looking for?

We're positive that you'll find it in one of our other lists! To make the search easier for you, we split our website into different categories. The following board game categories will help you find the right list: