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Buying a new board game seems easy, until you discover that the playing time does not suit your family, the box is only suitable for a set group size or the rules are unclear. Marketing terms such as “for the whole family” can also be misleading when the recommended age is 12+.
That is why it is important to focus on the practical details. Below, you can read about common pitfalls, the specifications that matter and which board games suit different occasions.
A family game may be suitable for children and adults, but that does not mean a six-year-old can play independently. Small parts, complex rules and a long playing time can be challenging for younger players. Always check the recommended minimum age and the safety warnings.
Many board games also state that they are not suitable for children under three because they contain small parts. This is different from the recommended playing age. A game recommended for ages eight or twelve and over will usually require greater reading ability, concentration or strategic thinking.
A game for 2 to 6 players is not automatically equally suitable for two and six people. With card games and short party games, the pace often remains fast in a larger group. Strategic board games, on the other hand, can take longer when everyone has a turn.
So, look at the combination of minimum number of players, maximum number of players and playing time. A family of four will need different family games from a group of eight to ten friends.
Some games appear complete based on the product image, but are actually expansions. For example, the Monopoly Buy Everything expansion and Monopoly Go to Jail expansion are designed to be added to the classic Monopoly game, which is sold separately.
With an expansion, always check:
For board games for children, the age rating is a useful starting point. According to the product information, Rummikub is suitable from age 7, Blokus from age 3 and Hasbro 5 Alive from age 8. A game's complexity may vary from child to child, but the stated age helps prevent unsuitable purchases.
Also look for CE marking, small parts and instructions advising young children to play under supervision. A CE marking appears in the product details for various games, but it does not mean that every child can use the game without guidance.
For an enjoyable games night at home, playing time is at least as important as the theme. Short games of around 10 to 20 minutes are useful as a warm-up, a quick between-games option or a travel game. Examples include Connect 4 Chaos, with a stated playing time of around 10 minutes, UNO Quatro at approximately 15 minutes and 5 Alive at around 20 minutes.
If you are looking for strategic board games, you will need to allow more time. Rummikub has a stated playing time of around 60 minutes. Ticket to Ride Legacy: Legends of the West is listed at approximately 90 minutes and is suitable for 2 to 5 players. Also check how much space the box requires; a 90-centimetre game board, such as the one for Monopoly Knockout, will not fit on every small table.
The language of the cards and instructions affects how quickly you can get started. Rummikub, 5 Alive and UNO Quatro are supplied with Dutch game information. According to the product details, Disney Sorcerers Arena and Ticket to Ride Legacy: Legends of the West are English-language editions.
Next, choose the type of game that suits your group:
Why it suits this profile: The rules are easy to understand and the game is suitable for 2 to 4 players aged around 7 and over. This makes it an accessible choice for a first purchase.
The number of players, Dutch-language edition and stated playing time of approximately 15 minutes are clearly listed. No base game or expansion is required.
2-4 players, approximately 15 minutes, Dutch-language edition and no batteries required.
Why it suits this profile: The set contains 106 tiles, four racks and Dutch-language rules. Combining number sequences and sets offers more scope for play than a game based purely on luck.
It is a complete set for 2-4 players. The playing time of approximately 60 minutes is stated in advance, so you can plan your games night accordingly.
106 plastic tiles, 4 racks, 2-4 players and Dutch instructions.
Why it suits this profile: This strategic board game is designed for players who enjoy longer sessions and a storyline. It is suitable for 2-5 players and has a stated playing time of approximately 90 minutes.
The product details clearly state the playing time, number of players and English-language edition. This tells you in advance that it is not a short family game.
2-5 players, strategic game type, approximately 90 minutes and no batteries required.
Why it suits this profile: This Travel Edition is designed for 2-4 players aged 4 and over and, according to the product description, can be taken in the car, on the train or on holiday.
The packaging weighs approximately 200 grams and contains a game board, 36 balls and the rules. This makes it clear in advance what you are taking with you and how many players it is designed for.
Travel Edition, 2-4 players, approximately 30 minutes and instructions in several languages, including Dutch.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
It depends on the ages of the players and the time available. For a short evening, UNO Quatro, Connect 4 Chaos and 5 Alive are practical choices. For a longer session involving more planning, Rummikub or another strategic board game may be a better fit. Always check the number of players and the minimum age.
Their lifespan depends mainly on the quality of storage and use. Keep the game dry, store small components together and follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions. Cards and cardboard components are vulnerable to moisture and direct sunlight. If any components are damaged, it is advisable not to let young children use the game.
Some travel games are suitable for children, but check the recommended age and whether they contain small parts. A compact box makes a game easy to carry, but says nothing about its difficulty. You should therefore also consider the playing time, rules and amount of table space required.
