How Buddy Pal Games Keeps Families Playing Together for 30 Years

Three brothers and a childhood friend turned their love of games into a legacy. Their mission? Bring people back to the table—no screens allowed. For nearly three decades, they've designed timeless fun for all ages.

, and Administrator

2026 March 17 . 4:02 AM

1 min read

The image shows a family of four - a man, woman and two boys - sitting on a couch playing a board... — The image shows a family of four - a man, woman and two boys - sitting on a couch playing a board game together. On the table in front of them are cards and other objects, and behind them is a sofa with cushions. Through the windows in the background, we can see a building outside.

How Buddy Pal Games Keeps Families Playing Together for 30 Years

A small board game company called Buddy Pal Games has been quietly creating family-friendly games for nearly three decades. Founded by three brothers and a childhood friend, the group aims to bring people together through tabletop fun. Their name even pays tribute to the brothers' late father, who affectionately called them 'buddy' while they were growing up.

The story of Buddy Pal Games began in Horn Lake in the early 1980s. Kenny, Keith, and Kirk Smith, along with their friend Jay Malinoski, bonded over a shared love of games. Decades later, they turned that passion into a business, launching the company around 30 years ago.

Their mission is simple: to design games that get people off screens and back to face-to-face play. The team focuses on making products that are easy to learn yet engaging for players of all ages and skill levels. They also hope their creations will stand the test of time, much like long-standing favourites such as Uno. Despite their long history, the company has kept a low profile. No public records or market analyses document their influence on the global board game industry. Yet, their dedication to fostering real-world connections through gaming remains clear.

Buddy Pal Games continues to operate with a clear vision—encouraging families and friends to gather around a table instead of a screen. Their games, built on decades of shared memories, reflect a belief in the lasting joy of in-person play. While their reach may not be widely documented, their focus on accessibility and togetherness defines their work.