As 2025 wraps up, we’re celebrating the games outdoor enthusiasts have been loving. The games that have brought people together, brought out your quiet mates’ competitive side, given something for the oldies and youngens to bond over, and generally provided good times every time.
Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a birthday, or a lazy day at the bach, backyard games have been the go-to way to turn ordinary gatherings into memorable moments. Easy to set up, fun for all ages, and endlessly replayable, these are the games Kiwis have loved most this year.
1. Cornhole (The Undisputed Crowd Favourite)
If there’s one game that defines modern backyard play, it’s cornhole.
Simple to learn but surprisingly competitive, cornhole has become a staple at everything from casual BBQs to weddings and corporate events.
Why cornhole is still king in 2025:
Easy for all ages and abilities
Competitive without being intimidating
Quick rounds, endless rematches
Just as fun to watch as it is to play
It’s the kind of game that pulls people in “just for one go” and suddenly everyone’s invested.
2. Kubb (The Thinking Person’s Backyard Game)
Often described as Viking chess, Kubb brings a slower, more strategic energy to the lawn.
It’s perfect for groups who love a bit of friendly rivalry, teamwork, and tactical thinking.
Why Kubb is trending:
Encourages teamwork and strategy
Ideal for longer play sessions
Appeals to teens and adults alike
Feels premium, tactile, and satisfying
Kubb turns a casual afternoon into an engaging, competitive experience.
3. Giant Games (Big Fun, Bigger Energy)
When you scale a game up, the fun scales with it.
Giant games bring instant visual impact and are perfect for entertaining mixed-age groups.
Popular giant games in 2025 include:
They’re easy to understand, great for spectators, and impossible to ignore once they’re set up.
4. Versatile Games (Backyard, Beach, or Bach)
Some games are too good to stay in the backyard they go wherever the fun is.
Top versatile games in 2025:
These games are lightweight, easy to transport, and perfect for days at the beach, lake, or holiday bach. They keep the fun going no matter the location.
5. Games That Create Moments (Not Just Matches)
The best backyard games of 2025 aren’t just about winning; they’re about connection.
The games people love most are:
Easy to learn
Quick to reset
Inclusive across ages
Fun to play and watch
They spark laughter, friendly competition, and those unplanned moments that become stories.
Choosing the Right Game for Your Backyard
When choosing a backyard game, think about:
Who you’re playing with
How much space you have
Whether you want fast-paced or relaxed play
The Takeaway
Backyard games in 2025 are about more than entertainment, they’re about bringing people together. From the competitive buzz of cornhole to the strategic fun of Kubb, the right games turn ordinary afternoons into unforgettable moments.
Because the best backyards aren’t the ones that look perfect, they’re the ones full of laughter, play, and connection.
Looking to upgrade your backyard setup this summer?
Explore our range of premium backyard games designed to last, look good, and bring people together season after season.
