It’s a great time to be a Pinoy who likes board games, because we’ve been eating good lately. Not only do we have access to some of the best board games the world has to offer, but now, we even have massive conventions dedicated to this hobby, where now, we offer our best board games to the rest of the world. That’s right: In 2026, we have a lot more Filipino board games out there than just sungka (yes, that counts). Let’s talk about just 8 of those upcoming games and exactly why we’re excited about them.

8. Modern Art PH

Modern Art PH is one of three big adaptations of existing popular board games that will be featured at the All Aboard Expo from May 29 to June 1. Out of the three, Modern Art resonates perfectly as an auction game with a theme that writes itself, given that you can expect Filipino National Artists to feature.

What we’re expecting: If you like auction games, you can’t miss out on this one. Modern Art PH is a known quantity as far as games go, and it’s called a classic for a reason – and not in the Monopoly sense.

7. Talangkaan

Sight unseen, this is pretty much as Pinoy as it gets: crab mentality, gamified. With cute crab avatars representing different crab species such as the Curacha, the Alimango, and the Kasag, the art style of the game alone already has our attention. Expect to see this and all the other games from this list

What we’re expecting: A racing game, given the objective of having one of these crabs get out of the bucket. A lot of player interaction, backstabbing, and social dynamics, because crab mentality.

6. Manila 2076

It’s a cyberpunk card game that has been in the works since about 2020 or even earlier, but will finally be getting a deserved spotlight on it. Not only is this perfect for playing with a friend, there’s even a solitaire mode available!

What we’re expecting: A wider release, and teach-ins for the game. We don’t know any mechanics about it yet, but the theme on its own, asking what Manila would be like by 2076, is pretty exciting.

5. Fishbol

We’ll take the description straight from the tin: It’s a 2-4 light abstract game where you collect Filipino street food and compete against each other for strategic and culinary dominance… sort of.

What we’re expecting: A fun theme, some light strategy, and the perfect excuse for a food trip for the players afterwards.

4. Bits Please

A fast-paced and action-packed game that is also a love letter to the 80s, and the cybernetic sensibilities of the era. This game came out late last year, but expect it to make a splash all over Asia as it gears up for a bigger reintroduction this May!

What we’re expecting: Grade A 80s computer nostalgia, and maybe some clever mechanics here and there to really make this game stand out in the market.

3. Talecraft

This game has been around for ages, and is probably one of the first games that really has taken on a life of its own. From turning into actual story prompts to devoted groups who swear by the game, Talecraft is a storytelling game that goes far beyond its mechanics, and relies on a playgroup really willing to go wherever the cards take it.

What we’re expecting: A big platform for Talecraft to finally become more than just a cult favorite.

2. Combatron Komiks Kombat Arena

The Combatron card game is one thing, but turning the classic Funny Komiks standby into a miniature game ala Heroclix or Warhammer? Well, it’s coming out soon, and there’s even a Combatron movie premiering at the Asian Board Games Festival, so us 90s kids are more than just a tad excited about this!

What we’re expecting: Armies upon armies of Combatron heroes and villains slugging it out on terrain, and a chance for expansion over time. This game has to succeed, and maybe we get to see more of our very own local IP turned into excellent games.

1. One Of Us Will Die

Probably the centerpiece of this showcase, One Of Us Will Die is an RPG where, well, One Of Us Will Die. The group’s objective is to maybe prevent that death, but someone else at the table is trying to ensure that the person who will die does so before they get to do their own objectives. Intrigue, social roleplaying, and a topic that we should be able to talk about but generally avoid, this game is currently on Kickstarter, aiming for a massive release with special material and peripherals to go along with the core current gamebook. It’s a masterpiece, is what we’re saying, and proudly Pinoy.

What we’re expecting: A great, memorable game that can be equal parts fun, exciting, thrilling, and ultimately, cathartic.

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