Joybuy Insights

Choosing board games: a practical guide for families, game nights and gifts

Buying a board game seems simple, until you realise it may not suit the number of players, their ages or the time you have available. A box with an appealing theme might turn out to be too complicated for children, take too long for a weeknight or only be fun with a large group.

The most common pitfalls when choosing board games are:

  • Underestimating how long a game takes: a game with a stated playing time of 60 to 90 minutes requires more time than a quick family game.
  • Choosing the wrong number of players: some games only work well with four or more players, while a board game for 2 players may not be the best choice for a family night.
  • Mistaking an expansion for a complete game: several Monopoly expansions can only be used with a classic Monopoly board, which is sold separately.
  • Ignoring the age rating: small parts and complicated rules don’t automatically make a game suitable for younger children.

Which features should you check?

1. Number of players and playing time

Don’t just check the maximum number of players. Also check whether the game is still enjoyable with two. Rubik’s Race, for example, is designed for exactly two players, while Hasbro Connect 4 Op’n Rij Chaos is suitable for 2 to 10 players and, according to the product information, takes around 10 minutes.

Quick board games are often practical for families with children. A game lasting 15 to 20 minutes is easier to fit in between dinner and bedtime than a 90-minute strategy game. For a regular game night, longer strategy board games can offer more depth.

2. Age, components and supervision

The age rating is an important factor when buying a game, not just decorative text on the box. Check whether it’s intended for ages 7 or 8 and read the warnings about small parts. Younger players may need help reading cards, understanding the rules or keeping score.

Also consider the materials. Card games are compact, but cards and counters are more easily lost if they aren’t put away carefully. Games with a sturdy board or a storage tray are more convenient for families who move them around often.

3. Language and what’s included

For Dutch-language board games, Dutch-language cards and rules are important. Rummikub, Uno Quatro, 5 Alive and Hasbro The Game of Life are listed in the product information as Dutch-language editions. Ticket to Ride Legacy: Legends of the West is an English edition with English instructions. This may be fine for older players, but is less suitable for a family who want to play entirely in Dutch.

Always check what’s included with expansions. The Monopoly Buy Everything expansion, Free Parking expansion and Go to Jail expansion all require the classic Monopoly game. You can’t use them on their own without the base game.

Product picks by type of player

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Hasbro Connect 4 Op'n Rij Chaos party game

Hasbro Connect 4 Op'n Rij Chaos Party Game

Why it suits this type of player: The rules are quick to explain and, according to the product details, it takes around 10 minutes to play. With 2 to 10 players, it’s suitable for a family, a get-together or a quick game while you’re out and about.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of players and playing time are clearly stated. So you won’t end up buying a long game when you’re looking for a quick activity.

Key benefits and features

2-10 players, around 10 minutes of playing time, no assembly required and a frame for storing the discs.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Days of Wonder Ticket to Ride Legacy Legends of the West

Days of Wonder Ticket to Ride Legacy: Legends of the West

Why it suits this type of player: This strategy board game combines train routes, destination cards and an unfolding story. It’s designed for 2 to 5 players and has a stated playing time of around 90 minutes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information makes it clear that this is a longer gaming experience, for players aged 10 and over, and that it’s an English edition. This helps you decide in advance whether it’s right for your group.

Key benefits and features

2-5 players, strategic gameplay, story elements and a product weight of around 4.2 kg.

Suitable for: Specific uses and frequent players
Goliath Rummikub The Original Classic Game

Goliath Rummikub The Original Classic Game

Why it suits this type of player: Rummikub is suitable for 2 to 4 players and involves making combinations of coloured number tiles. The Dutch-language edition is a good fit for families who want to play regularly without having to use English rules.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The set clearly lists 106 tiles, 4 racks and Dutch-language rules. That means you can check what’s included before you order.

Key benefits and features

106 tiles, 2-4 players, around 60 minutes of playing time and a recommended age of 7+.

Other types of games to consider

For a board game for 2 players, Rubik’s Race and Uno Quatro are good options. According to the product details, Rubik’s Race takes around 25 minutes and is all about speed and tile skills. Uno Quatro is designed for 2 to 4 players, takes around 15 minutes and uses colours, numbers and special cards.

If you’re looking for fun games for children and adults, consider 5 Alive, Skip-Bo Masters or Monopoly Knockout. 5 Alive takes around 20 minutes and is in Dutch. Skip-Bo Masters is suitable for 2 to 6 players aged 7 and over, and adds coins to the card game. Monopoly Knockout is a party game for 2 to 8 players, with a playing time of around 20 minutes.

For fans of detective and puzzle games, Cluedo is an option for 2 to 6 players aged 8 and over. Check the stated playing time on the product page, as this isn’t always listed.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about board games

Which board game is suitable for a family?

Choose a game with a player count, age rating and playing time that suit your family. For quick rounds, Connect 4 Chaos, Uno Quatro and 5 Alive are practical options. For a longer game night, Rummikub or Ticket to Ride Legacy may be a better fit, as long as your group has enough time.

How long do board games last?

How long a game lasts depends mainly on the materials and how it’s stored. Keep cards, tiles and counters dry in the original box. Check the components regularly and don’t use a game if any parts are damaged. For card games, having a dedicated place to store them helps prevent anything from going missing.

Can Monopoly expansions be played on their own?

No. The Monopoly Buy Everything, Free Parking and Go to Jail expansions mentioned here are designed to be used with the classic Monopoly game. Before buying, check that you already have the base game and that the expansion is compatible with your edition.