Generation game: Over two thirds of Gen Z would pick playing board-games over clubbing with friends

Now the nights are officially getting longer, E.ON Next is inviting people to ‘switch off and game on’ in a new board game giveaway that rewards low-carbon living. The quirky initiative invites households to power down screens and make energy-efficient memories together, helping to protect the planet while busting winter boredom.

The giveaway is designed to help feed the nation’s board game obsession, as more than two-thirds (68%)* of under-28s admit they’d rather get together with a board game than hit up a club with friends. Meanwhile, a staggering 91% of Brits proudly state they love playing board games in their spare time, and 60% report playing more often now than they did two years ago.

New data from E.ON Next shows the humble board game’s comeback can be attributed to the trend for retro hobbies (80%) and the nation’s desire to reduce screen time (71%). Board games are even shown to give players a mood boost, as 95% of gamers say it helps them unwind and feel closer to family and friends.

E.ON Next’s prize-draw will see 5,000 people receive one new mini game each month for six months – pocket-sized versions of favourites such as Herd Mentality from award-winning UK board game company Big Potato Games. The mini games are designed to bring people together and spark small changes that in combination can make a big difference to carbon emissions.

“It’s not every day you see an energy company asking customers to use less power — but that’s exactly what we’re doing,” said Julian Lennertz, Chief Commercial Officer at E.ON Next.

“By swapping screen time for board game time – especially during peak hours, we want to help our customers unplug, reconnect in person and at the same time reduce their carbon footprint.”

As well as enjoying quality time with loved ones, if every household in the UK turned off their TV for just one hour a week, it could save an estimated 196 tonnes of CO2 every week** – that’s around the weight of a blue whale and equivalent to planting approximately 9,000 trees.

Julian added: “Electricity is most carbon-intensive and expensive at peak times. Through our Next Smart Saver tariff, customers can take advantage of cleaner, lower-cost energy during off-peak hours*** –  connecting with family and friends while supporting a more sustainable energy system.”

Dean Co-Founder at Big Potato Games, said: “We’ve always believed in creating games that bring people together. This partnership with E.ON Next gives thousands of families another opportunity to enjoy games together - all whilst helping the planet too. What’s not to love.”

Players can enter the new board-game giveaway via  eonnext.com/powerswitch and learn more about Next Smart Saver here: eonnext.com/tariffs/next-smart-saver.