Board games are alive and thriving in the Metro. Whether you’re in the mood for timeless classics like Monopoly and chess or inventive modern titles, here are four great spots to enjoy game sessions with friends.
Board games never really went away, even in the digital boom. There’s something irreplaceable about gathering around a table with friends—face to face and fully present—sharing laughs, friendly competition, and real-time interaction with both the game and each other. Luxury brands like Miu Miu, Hermès, Bottega Veneta, Ralph Lauren, and Versace were onto something when they started incorporating these analog pastimes into their product lines; the old ways are making a comeback, and we’re all for it.
Now you might be wondering: so where exactly can I find the space and resources to host board game sessions with friends? We’ve gathered four spots across the Metro offering just that (and oftentimes more), so you can host your hangouts with ease.
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Shelfscape
A board game lounge and tarot shop in Quezon City, Shelfscape aims to be that cozy third place to visit when you’re seeking relaxing moments that bring people closer together. It has a growing collection of over 300 boardgames to play with, on top of a wide selection of tarot decks you can browse and purchase. The lounge serves drinks and food, welcomes pets with diapers and leashes, and has a team of game hosts ready and happy to assist players throughout their game sessions.
Shelfscape is open from 1 PM to 10 PM on Tuesdays to Sundays with hourly rates (and certain special promos); guests are welcome to walk in with their besties, though advanced bookings are recommended for larger groups.
The Board Room Manila
With two easily accessible branches under popular escape room franchise Mystery Manila—one in Century City Mall in Makati and another in Eastwood Citywalk 2—The Board Room Manila is another solid pick for your next board game session. The spot charges a per-head fee that gives you all-day access to its wide selection of games, making it especially appealing if you’re planning to settle in for a longer hangout.
Gaming Library
Gaming Library has branches conveniently located in the Metro’s leading malls, including Uptown Mall BGC, Shangri-La, Greenbelt 5, and SM City North. Backed by 15 years in the business, it’s a foundational name in the Philippine board game community. Beyond hosting a variety of events you can join, the spot also welcomes guests to sit down and play with friends, drawing from its impressive (and up to date) game collection. Party games, card games, puzzle games, and more, it’s got about everything you need for a good time both within and outside of its premises.
The spot charges different rates depending on how long you intend to play, with an hourly fee and Play-All-Day fee, as well as special fees for kids who want to join in the fun (bigger groups can enjoy a 5+1 promo as well).
BoardBrew Manila
Open from 8 AM to 2 AM and located at W.H. Taft Residences in Manila, BoardBrew offers more than just a selection of board games for rent and drinks. The cafe, which just opened in 2025, also hosts its fair share of chess tournaments and events, many open to players of all levels, so you can live out your The Queen’s Gambit fantasies. You’re welcome to walk in, though you’re encouraged to reserve a table through BoardBrew’s official website.
