1981 in games

This page lists board and card games, wargames, miniatures games, and table-top role-playing games published in 1981. For video and console games, see 1981 in video gaming.

Games released or invented in 1981

 * A House Divided
 * Aftermath! (role-playing game)
 * Axis & Allies (Nova Games version)
 * Baboon Ball
 * Bushido (role-playing game)
 * Call of Cthulhu (role-playing game)
 * Champions (role-playing game)
 * Conquistador (2nd edition)
 * Cry Havoc
 * Down with the King
 * Hitler's War
 * Midgard (role-playing game)
 * Storm Over Arnhem
 * Stormbringer (role-playing game)
 * Upwords

Game awards given in 1981

 * Spiel des Jahres: Focus

Significant games-related events in 1981

 * Amarillo Design Bureau founded.