We play a lot of board games around here, and every once in a while, one really stands out. Minecraft Junior by Ravensburger is officially one of those games. Based on the mega-popular Minecraft universe, this cooperative board game is packed with hands-on fun, clever gameplay, and just the right mix of strategy and silliness.

And yes, while it’s labeled 5+, we’ll let you in on a little secret - we’ve played it with adults, and it’s just as fun for grown-ups as it is for kids.

What Is Minecraft Junior?

Minecraft Junior is a cooperative board game where players work together to build a farm before too many monsters arrive. You flip over cards to discover animals or monsters, then use a pickaxe and shovel to mine blocks and build stables or torches. But watch out—if you drop a block into the lava, things can heat up quickly. The goal is to fill the farm with animal cards before the monsters block all the paths.

Why We Love It

We’ve played this game right here at the store, and it’s been a hit every time. Here’s what makes it so great:

1. Fun for all ages
Even though it’s designed for young kids, we’ve found that older kids and adults have just as much fun. It’s simple enough to learn quickly but has enough strategy to keep everyone engaged.

2. Built-in teamwork
This is a cooperative game, which means everyone plays on the same team. That’s a big win in our books. Instead of competing, players have to communicate, remember where the monsters are hiding, and make decisions together.

3. Hands-on and interactive
Using the mini pickaxe and shovel to collect blocks adds a 3D, tactile element that makes this game stand out. It brings the digital world of Minecraft to life in a really clever way.

4. Sneaky educational value
Yes, the kids will be having fun—but they’ll also be developing memory skills, spatial awareness, strategy, and even a bit of math. It’s a great example of learning through play.

Our Prediction: A Holiday Bestseller

We’re already expecting Minecraft Junior to be one of our top-selling toys this Christmas. It checks all the boxes: popular theme, educational value, family-friendly fun, and replayability. If you have a Minecraft fan in your house—or you’re looking for a board game the whole family can actually enjoy together—this is a fantastic pick.

Come check it out in store or online. You might end up wanting to play a round yourself!