You might think board games would lose some of their appeal when the players can’t be in the same room.

I certainly did.

But I was pleasantly surprised to discover that, when played with the right group, online board games can be just as enjoyable as their tangible counterparts.

It’s different, for sure. Two conversations usually can’t happen at once. Controls are often clunky and take some getting used to. And , without easy access to facial cues, it can be harder to read people if you’re playing something sneaky.

But you also get to sit in your own house. In your own room. In your own pyjamas. You can mute yourself, or quickly duck out and grab a snack when it’s not your turn, without anyone noticing.

Online board games are both social and private all at once.

If you’ve got nothing better to do, commit to a quick Google search and message four of your best friends. It’ll more than worth it.