Is it game over for board games in pubs?

3 mins read

The latest internet debate will have you questioning if we have run out of things to complain about. Pub-goers have taken to social media to weigh in about whether board games should be allowed in pubs.

Students and casual drinkers alike often appreciate a selection of classic games to choose from in the cosy corner of their local. Board games are a great way to socialise at the pub, especially since the rise of social media.

However, not everyone seems to respect this culture of gaming at the bar. The main issue people appear to have with it is the noise levels. Fair enough, when a Jenga tower drops or a sudden “whoop!” of excitement erupts in a relaxed pub atmosphere, it can make you jump or interrupt your evening. Although let’s be honest, board games are usually not the nosiest thing you’ll deal with on a night out.

One commenter took to Twitter and said: “All the cool people of NYC are playing chess late at night in bars now. Wild times.”

Below this Tweet was an image of several people focusing on two sets of chess games.

Opposing this opinion, another user commented: “Don’t get all the hate with this. Majority of pubs in Ireland will have a load[…] of board games you can pick up and play from the bar, and we’re the authority on what makes a good public house I’m afraid.”

From personal experience, those playing at a pub are usually always respectful and keep the noise down a lot more than the rowdier groups that come in.

Another commenter said: “Board games at bars just make me think, we could have done this at home.” This is a fair enough opinion to have, especially if you are looking to save money.

One wrote: “I think I’m gonna start going to bars with board games. Seems like a great way to make some friends […].”

Another said that board games at the pub are “a way to go out without the frenzy of a party”.

Several people have voiced that games in the pub are a good option to have for an alcohol-free night. You can still come along and have fun with your friends and not feel left out, even if you don’t have a beer.

Overall, it seems like the board game community likes to keep to themselves and doesn’t cause hassle for other patrons at the bar. I’m not sure who decided to start this debate, but maybe they just lost one too many games of Scrabble on a night out.

Featured image credit: cottonbro studio/Pexels

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Second year student journalist studying Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Journalism Studies.
Writer for Brig and Discovery Music

Second year student journalist studying Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Journalism Studies.
Writer for Brig and Discovery Music

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