Joybuy Insights

Buying board games: how to choose one that’s perfect for your game night

Buying board games may seem straightforward, but an appealing box does not always tell the whole story. Is the game suitable for the number of players? Is the playing time right for a weeknight? And can children aged 7 or 8 play independently?

With a few simple checks, you can avoid making the wrong purchase. Below, we compare practical options for families, groups of friends and collectors. The selection is based on verifiable product details such as the number of players, recommended age, materials and how the game is played.

Common pitfalls when buying board games

1. Buying a game without checking the number of players

A game for two to four players is not automatically suitable for a large family. Always check the minimum and maximum number of players. For a group of friends, card games for 2 to 6 players or party games for larger groups are often more convenient.

Pay attention to the playing style, too. Some board games work best with a fixed number of players, while card games are easier to adapt.

2. Ignoring the recommended age

A game for ages 8 and up may include rules, small parts or reading that younger children find difficult. For games for children and adults, it is sensible to check:

  • the official age recommendation;
  • how much text appears on the cards;
  • the complexity of the rules;
  • whether there are small parts;
  • whether it can be played together with an adult.

The games mentioned include a warning about small parts and use by children under 3 years of age. Always follow the age recommendation on the packaging as well.

3. Mistaking an expansion for a complete game

A Monopoly expansion can add new rules and playing components, but it is not a standalone board game. The Monopoly Free Parking Jackpot expansion requires the classic Monopoly game. Before buying, check whether you already own the base game.

Important features to compare

Number of players and playing time

For a relaxed evening, strategy games with a longer playing time are a good choice. For holidays, entertaining guests or a short break, compact card games are often more practical.

Examples from the range:

  • Rummikub: 2 to 4 players, approximately 60 minutes;
  • Skip-Bo Masters: 2 to 6 players, with 168 cards and special coins;
  • 5 Alive: 2 to 6 players, approximately 20 minutes;
  • Hitster Original: 2 to 10 players, with 308 music cards and 37 tokens.

The stated playing time is a guideline. The pace depends on experience, group size and the version of the game you choose.

Materials and storage

Cardboard cards are lightweight and easy to take with you, but they should be stored somewhere dry. According to the product description, PVC poker cards are designed for smooth shuffling and repeated use. For accessories such as playing cards, always check the card size, index size and the type of game you want to use them for.

For a board game or tile game, the contents and storage options are important. Rummikub contains 106 plastic tiles and 4 racks, with no batteries or assembly required. This makes it suitable for keeping in a permanent place in the cupboard, although at approximately 40.3 × 26.4 × 6.1 cm, the box is less compact than a small card game.

App, internet and compatibility

Not every game works completely without additional devices. Hitster uses QR codes and requires a smartphone with an internet connection, the Hitster app and a Spotify account. Check in advance whether someone in the group is happy to use their phone while playing.

Compatibility is also important for Nintendo amiibo cards. Each Animal Crossing card pack contains three random cards, including one special card according to the product information. How they work depends on a compatible Nintendo console and a suitable game with NFC functionality. Treat the stated usage options as Nintendo product information; check the current compatibility with your console and game before buying.

Recommended games for different types of user

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Hasbro 5 Alive Card Game

Hasbro 5 Alive Card Game

Why it suits this profile: This compact card game is designed for 2 to 6 players aged 8 and up, with a stated playing time of approximately 20 minutes. That makes it a good choice for families who want to try a short game first.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of players and age recommendation are clearly stated. The short playing time reduces the chance of the game being left unused in the cupboard.

Key benefit & advantages

2-6 players, approximately 20 minutes of playing time and a compact size of around 13.2 × 9.2 × 2 cm.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Goliath Rummikub The Original Classic Game

Goliath Rummikub The Original Classic Game

Why it suits this profile: Rummikub combines numbered tiles, combinations and strategy. It is suitable for 2-4 players aged 7 and up and includes instructions in Dutch.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The box states the contents, number of players, playing time and age recommendation. This means you know exactly what you are buying in advance.

Key benefit & advantages

106 plastic tiles, 4 racks, 2-4 players and approximately 60 minutes of playing time.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive players
MATTEL Skip-Bo Masters Card Game

MATTEL Skip-Bo Masters Card Game

Why it suits this profile: This version is aimed at players who want more tactical choices. The special coins add extra possibilities to the card game for 2 to 6 players aged 7 and up.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging states that this is the Masters edition. This makes it easy to distinguish from the standard Skip-Bo game.

Key benefit & advantages

168 cards, special coins and support for 2-6 players aged 7 and up.

Suitable for: Parties and music lovers
Jumbo Hitster Original

Jumbo Hitster Original

Why it suits this profile: Hitster is designed for 2 to 10 players aged 16 and up. The music cards make it ideal for an evening with friends, provided a smartphone and internet connection are available.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the required app, smartphone, internet connection and Spotify account. You can arrange these in advance.

308 music cards, 37 tokens and game modes for competitive, co-operative and individual play.

Check this before you order

  • Choose a game that suits the actual number of players.
  • Check the age recommendation and warnings about small parts.
  • Check whether the game works completely independently or requires a base game, app or console.
  • Compare the size if you want to take the game on holiday.
  • Store cards and tiles somewhere dry and cool, away from direct sunlight.
  • For collectible products such as amiibo cards, check whether you are happy to receive a random card assortment.

Looking for more options?

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.

Frequently asked questions about buying board games

Which board game is suitable for children aged 7 and up?

According to the stated product information, Rummikub and Skip-Bo Masters are suitable for ages 7 and up. Rummikub uses numbered tiles and combinations, while Skip-Bo Masters is played with cards and special coins. Always check the age recommendation on the product page and packaging.

Which game is suitable for a short game night?

5 Alive has a stated playing time of approximately 20 minutes and is suitable for 2 to 6 players aged 8 and up. Its compact size also makes it useful for playing on the go. The actual playing time may vary from group to group.

Do I need any additional equipment for Hitster?

Yes. Hitster requires a smartphone with an internet connection, the Hitster app and a Spotify account to scan the music cards. When using Spotify Free, one player can act as the DJ or players can take turns scanning cards.