Steam’s annual Board Game Fest has returned, and this year’s event is capturing the attention of tabletop fans and digital gamers alike. On January 27, 2026, both Steam Deck HQ and Wargamer rolled out enthusiastic coverage of the festival, highlighting a slew of discounts on digital adaptations of beloved board and card games. For those who have ever wished to bring their favorite tabletop experiences on the go—especially on the Steam Deck—this sale is a treasure trove.
The festival isn’t just about nostalgia or convenience; it’s about expanding how we interact with classic and modern board games. According to Wargamer, one of the biggest draws of digital board games is the production value: “a digital version often adds a lovely soundtrack and smooth animations to enhance the visual experience.” Who wouldn’t want to swap fiddly cardboard tokens for slick, animated counters and a relaxing background score? Plus, as Wargamer points out, “there’s the ease of play. Time saved on fiddly setup is time you can spend properly learning to play.”
From the perspective of portability, Steam Deck HQ emphasizes that many of the featured games are Steam Deck-verified, making them perfect for gaming on the move. Their curated list includes titles that run smoothly on the handheld device, ensuring players won’t be left fiddling with compatibility issues. The article encourages readers to check out the official Steam Board Game Fest page for the full array of deals, but also spotlights their top picks.
Let’s dive into some of the standout games and deals that are turning heads this year:
Tabletop Simulator ($9.99, 50% off): For those who want the flexibility to play virtually any board game, Tabletop Simulator is a must-have. It’s a sandbox platform where users can create, share, and play thousands of board games with friends online. At half off, it’s an easy recommendation for both veteran gamers and curious newcomers, according to Steam Deck HQ.
Dorfromantik ($5.94, 50% off): This peaceful tile-placement game combines gentle strategy with relaxing visuals. At its discounted price, it’s a steal for anyone who enjoys city-building puzzles with a calm, meditative vibe.
Frosthaven ($31.99, 20% off): A digital adaptation of the acclaimed board game, Frosthaven offers deep tactical gameplay and a sprawling campaign. While the price tag is higher than some, the 20% discount makes this epic adventure more accessible.
Gloomhaven ($9.79, 72% off): Both Steam Deck HQ and Wargamer single out Gloomhaven for its massive discount and faithful adaptation. As Wargamer notes, “Gloomhaven (72% off)” is one of the best deals of the festival, offering hundreds of hours of cooperative dungeon-crawling at a fraction of the usual cost.
Dune: Imperium ($16.09, 30% off): This strategy game blends worker placement with deck-building and hidden information mechanics, making it a favorite among fans of the genre. Wargamer describes it as “one of the best strategy board games of the decade,” adding, “I've had a chance to test it once in-person, and a digital copy would help me dive deep into its rich gameplay.” The 30% discount is the icing on the cake.
Armello ($6.24, 75% off): A digital board game with a whimsical fantasy setting, Armello is praised for its blend of strategy, adventure, and card play. At 75% off, it’s an easy recommendation for anyone looking to explore a lush, animated world.
Cultist Simulator ($7.99, 60% off): This narrative-driven game challenges players to build a cult, unravel mysteries, and experiment with the unknown. Its unique mechanics and storytelling make it a standout, especially at its reduced price.
Everdell ($11.99, 40% off): A darling among worker placement fans, Everdell shines in both its physical and digital forms. Wargamer calls it “a must-play among worker placement games,” and notes, “Dire Wolf has done an excellent job translating the tabletop mechanics for the screen.” The 40% discount is a major draw, even if some of the tactile charm of the physical game’s 3D tree is lost in translation.
TerraScape ($8.99, 40% off): Another relaxing strategy title, TerraScape offers tile-laying gameplay with a focus on beautiful landscapes and satisfying combos.
Flick Shot Rogues ($9.74, 35% off): For those seeking something a bit different, Flick Shot Rogues combines dexterity mechanics with roguelike elements for a fresh spin on digital board gaming.
Ark Nova (25% off): Wargamer highlights Ark Nova as a complex strategy game about running a zoo. “It’s considered one of the best board games of recent years,” the reviewer explains, though they admit the digital adaptation’s improved visuals and 25% discount might finally tempt them to learn its intricacies.
Set a Watch (25% off): This co-op game, where adventurers defend their camp from waves of monsters, recently received a digital adaptation. Wargamer describes it as “a bit of an underrated gem,” and the current discount makes it a tempting pick for fans of cooperative challenges.
Other notable deals mentioned by Wargamer include Nemesis Lockdown (70% off), Root (60% off), Scythe (80% off), and Wingspan (50% off). These titles, already staples in many gamers’ libraries, are now more accessible than ever.
But the festival isn’t just about the games themselves. Both publications encourage readers to stay connected for updates on future deals and new releases. Wargamer invites its audience to join their Discord deals channel for real-time alerts, while Steam Deck HQ highlights its ongoing coverage of game reviews, settings guides, and news for Steam Deck enthusiasts.
For the undecided, both articles stress that the Steam Board Game Fest is an opportunity to explore genres and titles you might not otherwise try. Whether you’re a veteran of cardboard campaigns or a newcomer curious about the world of digital board games, there’s never been a better time to dive in. The festival’s mix of deep discounts, polished adaptations, and portable play options ensures there’s something for everyone—whether you’re strategizing on your PC or curled up with your Steam Deck on the couch.
With so many classics and new favorites on offer, this year’s Steam Board Game Fest is a celebration of how technology can breathe new life into traditional gaming. Don’t miss your chance to grab a digital seat at the table.