In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela dive into the world of board games—a structured, sensory-rich hobby beloved in the autistic community. With research showing that 7% of autistic people enjoy board games (compared to just 1% of neurotypicals), it’s no wonder they hold such a special place in our culture.

🎧 What You’ll Learn

• Why board games resonate with autistic players – The draw of clear rules, predictable structure, and logical systems.
• Social connection through play – How board games reduce pressure, foster comfort, and create a shared focus.
• Autism-affirming skill building – Turn-taking, collaboration, communication, and fairness through structured interaction.
• SPINs & monotropic focus – How games align with special interests to boost emotional regulation.
• Sensory joy – Why the tactile, “stim-tastic” aspects of board games can be soothing and engaging.
• Healthy focus vs. catastrophizing – How pattern recognition in games offers a positive outlet for autistic brains.

Resources:

• Autism and Board Games – 🔗 Game in Lab Presentation
• Board Gaming on the Spectrum – 🔗 Liam Cross Talk
• Psychology Today – 🔗 How Games Can Help Autistic Children
• PubMed – 🔗 Board Games and Autism Study

Related Shows:

Chess is Autistic

Careers are Autistic

Pokemon is Autistic

Parks and Rec is Autistic

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.