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Whether it’s a family evening, a games night with friends or a larger celebration, board games and card games for families and parties vary considerably in terms of age rating, number of players, playing time and game mechanics. An attractively designed cover says little about whether a game is actually suitable for your group.
The following buying criteria will help you avoid common purchasing mistakes and choose between family games, social games, party games and strategy games with confidence.
“2 to 10 players” sounds flexible, but it does not automatically mean that every group size works equally well. Some games change pace or waiting times when played with lots of participants. Others require at least four people because teams need to be formed.
So check the following:
The age rating does not only relate to the level of difficulty. Small parts, complex rules, dark humour or the required reading ability can also be decisive factors. A game rated for ages 16 or 18 and over is not suitable for a mixed family group, even if the rules are simple.
Pay attention to the official age recommendation, warnings and the language of the instructions. With board games for children and adults, younger players may also need support from older participants.
A game with a playing time of 60 to 90 minutes is not necessarily suitable for a short games night. With some concepts, players alter or write on the game materials. This may be part of the game itself, but it reduces how often the game can be reused.
Before buying, you should therefore clarify the following:
Card games for 2 to 6 people are ideal for smaller groups. For parties with lots of guests, games for 2 to 10 players or formats with team rounds are more practical. Activity Original, for example, is designed for 3 to 16 people, while a classic card game such as UNO can be played with 2 to 10 players.
For families with children aged 8 and over, options include SKYJO, MyRummy and UNO. Teenagers and adults can also choose quiz games, music games or more challenging strategy games. With games featuring dark humour, the content description is particularly important: “Verdammt Nochmal” is expressly intended for ages 18 and over.
Compact card games are easy to store and transport. For board games, you should check the dimensions of the box, the number of components and how much table space is required. For app-supported music games, a smartphone, internet access and, where applicable, a Spotify account are also needed for practical use.
Safety information such as “not suitable for children under 3 years” indicates the presence of small parts that could be swallowed. These warnings do not replace an age rating and should be taken into account before buying.
Why this product suits the profile: The rules are quick to explain, the card game is designed for 2 to 10 people aged 7 and over, and it requires no batteries.
The number of players and age recommendation are clearly stated. The game works without an app and requires no elaborate preparation.
112 cards, including action and wild cards; suitable for family games and parties with different group sizes.
Why this product suits the profile: This co-operative escape-room game is designed for 1 to 4 people aged 10 and over, with a clearly defined beginner level.
The beginner level, tutorial and number of players make the choice easier. Bear in mind that the materials may be folded, written on or cut while solving the puzzles.
Co-operative puzzle-solving, compact dimensions of 13 × 18 × 4 cm and an optional KOSMOS explanation app.
Why this product suits the profile: This music game is designed for 2 to 10 people aged 16 and over, making it ideal for parties centred around music and conversation.
The technical requirements are clearly stated: a smartphone, the Hitster app, an internet connection and Spotify access are required to play the music.
Over 300 tracks and a chronological timeline format; no batteries required during play.
Why this product suits the profile: With 3 to 16 players and game modes involving drawing, acting and explaining, it is designed for larger groups.
The high maximum number of players helps ensure that no one is left without something to do at a party. The age recommendation of 12 and over should be observed.
2,640 terms and three forms of communication create varied rounds and make the game suitable for repeated use.
We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.
For families with children aged 7 or 8 and over, simple card games such as UNO, SKYJO and Phase 10 are obvious choices. Clear instructions, a small number of special rules and an age rating suitable for everyone in the group are key. For games containing small parts, the safety information should be observed.
That depends on the group size and the time available. For a short evening, one or two card games with short rounds are often enough. At a party, an additional party game can be useful so that new guests can join in at any time. For regular games nights, a combination of a quick family game, a quiz or music game and a strategy game is recommended.
Not every music game involves ongoing costs. However, with Hitster games, a smartphone, the relevant app, an internet connection and Spotify access are required to play the tracks. Before buying, check whether these requirements are available in your household and whether the game can also be used without a Premium account.