Since 1979, the German “Spiel des Jahres” (“Game of the Year”) has been the gold standard for analog board games. The award recognizes the best German-language games from the current and previous year, with no cash prize – just the prestige and the right to display the jury’s logo (for a licensing fee, which funds the nonprofit organization behind the award).

In 2001, the “Kinderspiel des Jahres” (“Children’s Game of the Year”) was added, followed by the “Kennerspiel des Jahres” (“Connoisseur’s Game of the Year”) in 2011. The jury is made up of volunteers; critics and journalists from German-speaking countries who cover games in their media. The jury is completely independent of the gaming industry, which is why the award is perceived as very important and honest. Board games are not submitted, but requested by the jury members as part of their work as critics.

While the award is rooted in Germany, winners come from all over the world.

But the “Spiel des Jahres” isn’t just a badge of honor. It’s a game-changer for breaking into markets, from Germany and Europe to the U.S. and beyond. Here’s why this award can be a publisher’s secret weapon:

A Seal of Quality That Opens Doors:
The Spiel des Jahres is the most respected board game award in the world, trusted by retailers, media, and players alike. A nomination or win signals quality, innovation, and fun. The exact things consumers look for when choosing a new game.

Instant Visibility and Sales Boost:
Retailers and gaming media closely follow Spiel des Jahres announcements. A nomination or win can mean prime shelf space, feature articles, and social media buzz: all of which drive visibility and sales.

Standing Out in a Crowded Market:
The board game market is booming, with a diverse audience hungry for fresh, high-quality titles. The “Spiel des Jahres” logo helps a game cut through the noise, appealing to both casual players and hardcore enthusiasts. The jury actively promotes award-winning games internationally, attending major conventions in the US like BGG Spring Con and Gen Con (this year, with their own information panel).

A Powerful Marketing Tool:
Displaying the award logo on packaging and in marketing is a visual shorthand for excellence, one that can significantly boost conversion rates, both in stores and online. Since all “Spiel des Jahres” logos are globally protected trademarks, there’s no risk of fake logos misleading customers.

Long-Term Sales and Legacy:
Games with a “Spiel des Jahres” nomination or win often enjoy sustained sales growth, staying relevant and recommended for years. They join the ranks of past winners, many of which are now considered modern classics like “Ticket to Ride”, “Dixit” and “Codenames”, which are all advertised with the “Spiel des Jahres” logo and considered go-to recommendations for new players and veterans alike.

For more information about the awards and the jury, visit spiel-des-jahres.de/en

Guido Heinecke, 48, is the managing director of the “Spiel des Jahres” association. He lives and plays with his wife and four kids in the town of Konstanz, Germany.