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Planning a games night sounds easy, until you realise the game takes too long, the rules are unclear or two players have nothing to do. So if you’re looking to buy board games, it pays to look beyond an eye-catching box or a popular brand name.
Keep an eye out for three common pitfalls:
Misjudging how long a game takes
A game listed as taking 30 minutes may take longer in practice if players still need to learn the rules. Some games don’t have a playing time listed in the product information at all.
A mismatch between age and difficulty
A game may be described on the box as suitable for children and adults, but still involve a lot of reading, planning or fine motor skills. So check both the minimum age and how the game works.
Buying an expansion without the base game
Some Monopoly expansions only work with the classic Monopoly game. Always check whether you’re buying a complete game or just an expansion.
The number of players determines how flexible a game is. For a family of four, a game for 2 to 4 players makes sense. For a larger group, games for 2 to 6 players or more are more practical.
Also consider the difference between:
The stated playing time is a guide, not a guarantee. Also check whether everyone plays throughout or regularly has to wait.
Check the age recommendation on the product page. Many children’s games for ages 7 and up contain small cards, counters or other parts. The games listed generally include a choking hazard warning and recommend adult supervision for younger children.
A board game for children and adults is especially practical when the rules are quick to explain. For younger players, simple objectives, clear colours and short turns are often more important than an elaborate theme.
Check the materials and packaging dimensions. A large game board can be ideal on the dining table, but less suitable for a small home or a holiday. A travel game should be compact, with a safe way to store its components.
Games without batteries are easy to set up. For games with electronics, such as Operation, check whether the required AA batteries are included. It’s best to store cards and cardboard components somewhere dry and out of direct sunlight. Plastic parts can usually be cleaned with a dry cloth; don’t immerse game components in water.
The selection below is based on verifiable information such as player numbers, playing time, age, materials and game format. What’s suitable will depend on your family, group of friends and available space.
Why it suits this type of player: The rules are straightforward, but players still need to make decisions about space and placement. That makes it an accessible first strategy board game for 2 to 4 players.
The product information lists 2 to 4 players, a playing time of around 30 minutes and no batteries. That means you know the practical details in advance.
2–4 players, around 30 minutes and 21 playing pieces per player; suitable for children from the stated minimum age and for adults.
Why it suits this type of player: With 106 tiles, four racks and game information in Dutch, this game offers a consistent, easy-to-follow format for regular games nights.
The number of components and players, along with the playing time of around 60 minutes, are listed. So you can work out in advance whether you have enough table space and time.
2–4 players, 106 plastic tiles, around 60 minutes and instructions in Dutch.
Why it suits this type of player: This is a practical party game for a larger group, with simultaneous action and a playing time of around 10 minutes. It’s also a good fit for holidays and short games sessions.
The game isn’t limited to four players: the product information lists 2 to 10 players. The frame also provides storage for the discs.
2–10 players, around 10 minutes, no assembly required and a frame that stores the discs.
Why it suits this type of player: This card game is suitable for 2 to 6 players and includes 168 cards plus special coins. Its compact size and lack of batteries make it handy for games nights and playing on the go.
The product information clearly states the age recommendation of 7 and up, the number of players and the extra coins. Do check the playing time beforehand, as it hasn’t been specified.
2–6 players, 168 cards, special coins and no batteries; suitable for children aged 7 and up according to the product information.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Check the minimum age, number of players and how long it takes to explain the rules. Blokus is suitable for 2 to 4 players and, according to the product information, has simple rules. For larger groups, Connect 4 Op'n Rij Chaos may be more practical, as it’s designed for 2 to 10 players.
How long it lasts depends mainly on how carefully you store it. Keep cards, tiles and counters in the original box, store them somewhere dry and check regularly for missing parts. A game without batteries has fewer components that can stop working due to power use, but cardboard and plastic are still vulnerable to moisture and rough handling.
Yes, as long as the size, weight and storage method suit your trip. A card game such as Skip-Bo Masters doesn’t need batteries and is suitable for 2 to 6 players. Do check that you’ll have enough table space, and keep small parts in a sealed bag or their original box.
