These are my picks for the best five board and card games to buy as a gift for your dad, whatever the occasion.
1. Crokinole
Crokinole is an extremely fun, extraordinarily addictive game that involves flicking wooden discs toward the center hole. It can be played with two players one-on-one, or four players with two teams competing against each other. This game has been around for more than a century for a reason -- it's a lot of fun. A really good Crokinole board will cost $100 or more, but it's a good investment -- my dad loves his.2. Deluxe Scrabble
If your father enjoys Scrabble, this Deluxe Edition is a sure-fire way to please him. If he prefers Yahtzee or Monopoly, consider buying Deluxe Yahtzee or Deluxe Monopoly instead.
3. Wyatt Earp
Players work to capture outlaws in the Wild West; at the end of the game, the best bounty hunter wins. If your father enjoys western movies, chances are he'll enjoy this game. It pulls some of its mechanics from Rummy, so it won't be too difficult to learn.4. Memoir '44
World War II is the theme of this fantastic two-player game. It's not so complex that it takes forever to play, but it offers plenty of opportunity for strategic decisions. It comes with a rulebook packed with different scenarios, so players can act out a variety of battles. Also consider Battle Cry, a U.S. Civil War-themed game which utilizes the same basic system.5. Formula De
Perhaps the most popular auto racing game available today, Formula De uses a creative method of gear changing -- what gear you're in determines how big the die you roll is. Navigating turns can be tricky, and you need to watch your tires. Dozens of tracks are available.