Bandido is that rare cooperative game that actually works for the whole family without anyone feeling patronized. It's genuinely cooperative (not just 'everyone plays their own cards'), teaches spatial reasoning, and plays fast enough that you can squeeze in multiple rounds.

The BGG rating of 6.4 might seem middling, but that's because serious gamers find it too light—for families with young kids, it's a gem. The fact that preschoolers through adults can play together without the game breaking is legitimately impressive.

It's not going to be your game night centerpiece, but as a quick, portable, actually-fun filler that builds cooperation skills? Solid choice. Think of it as the board game equivalent of a good picture book—simple, accessible, and better than it has any right to be.