The winners of three prestigious awards, the Spiel des Jahres (Game of the Year), Kennerspiel des Jahres (Enthusiast Game of the Year), and Kinderspiel des Jahres (Children’s Game of the Year), were announced in Germany today.
The Spiel des Jahres (Game of the Year) for 2026 is Dito, by Martin Ang, with art by Untai Studio Surabaya, published by Game Factory. The jury’s statement (translated from German via Google Translate) explained the award. “At first glance, Dito! is a competition for the most points,” the jury said. “At its core, however, it unites us as a group, because we can only succeed ourselves by correctly anticipating shared perspectives. Along the way, we get to know our fellow players better. It does not require factual knowledge, but rather an understanding of others’ viewpoints—and a tactical sense for the best placement of terms.” Dito is not yet available in the U.S.
The Kennerspiel des Jahres (Enthusiast Game of the Year) went to Rebirth, by Reiner Knizia, with art by Anna Przybylska and Kate Redesiuk, published by Mighty Boards (see “Reiner Knizia’s ‘Rebirth’“). The jury commented. “The simple basic principle of Rebirth opens up a multitude of tactical possibilities,” their statement said. “The rule set is elegant and compels players to focus on the essentials. Direct competition on the shared board creates a lively and interactive experience where constructive planning takes center stage.”
The Kinderspiel des Jahres (Children’s Game of the Year) was awarded to Mooki Island, by Florian Sirieix, with art by Seppyo, published by Scorpion Masque (see “’Mooki Island’“). “With just a few rules, Mooki Island creates an exciting duel at the table that children simply can’t get enough of,” the jury said. “The objective is elegantly stripped down to the essentials, yet the game grows tactically alongside the children. Thanks to its charming presentation, what emerges from the small box in just a few minutes is not merely an island, but a whole little world.”
The nominees for this year’s awards were announced in May (see “Spiel des Jahres Nominees for 2026”).
Source: ICV2
