Finding the right game for your family, friends or a party isn’t always easy. Many product descriptions promise “quick fun”, plenty of versatility or a particularly large number of cards. What really matters, though, are the specifics: number of players, recommended age, playing time, language version and game mechanics.
A game for two to ten people sounds flexible. In practice, though, some games work best with a particular group size. Team games, for example, need at least four people, while strategy games may be designed for two to four players. Check that the stated number of players suits your games night.
Board games for children and adults differ in their language, rules and content. A game rated for ages 16 and up isn’t automatically suitable for younger family members. Even with games rated for ages 8 or 12 and up, check for small parts and consider how complex the game really is.
Music games may need a smartphone, an app, a streaming service or batteries. With a traditional card game, there’s none of that to worry about. Before buying, it’s worth checking the battery requirements, app requirements, language version and what’s included.
Card games and compact board games for two to four people are ideal for smaller groups. For larger groups, party games, music games or quiz games for six to ten players are usually more practical. If you often play with different-sized groups, look for a game that supports a flexible number of players.
Games that take around 20 to 45 minutes are a good fit for a quick games night. Examples include Rummikub, SKYJO and dice games. More complex strategy games and escape room games may take longer to explain. A tutorial or simple basic rules make it easier to get started, especially when children and adults are playing together.
Coated-cardboard cards are easy to store after normal use, but should be kept away from moisture. For board games, sturdy boards, well-organised trays and a suitable box are useful. Large playing pieces or XXL number tiles can make things easier to see. Small parts, on the other hand, can pose a choking hazard for children under three. Always follow the relevant warnings on the packaging and product page.
Why it’s a good fit: This card game is designed for 2 to 8 players aged 8 and up, and you can get started without any set-up. The rules are made for several short rounds.
The number of players, age recommendation and compact format are clearly stated. No batteries or app are needed.
2 to 8 players, ages 8 and up, card game format and instructions in German.
Why it’s a good fit: Azul is for 2 to 4 players aged 8 and up, combining tactical decisions with a manageable set of rules. The stated playing time is around 30 to 45 minutes.
The product details specify the number of players, age rating, playing time and German edition. No batteries are needed.
2 to 4 players, ages 8 and up, around 30 to 45 minutes’ playing time, German edition.
Why it’s a good fit: This music and card game is for 2 to 10 people aged 16 and up. According to the product description, it includes over 300 songs and can be played on its own or as an expansion.
The target audience, group size and age rating are all stated. Even so, check before buying whether you’ll need a compatible smartphone and a streaming account to play the music.
2 to 10 players, ages 16 and up, over 300 music cards, playable on its own or as an expansion.
Why it’s a good fit: This escape room game is designed for 1 to 4 people aged 10 and up. You work together to solve puzzles, and can play with or without the KOSMOS app.
The product description lists the difficulty as “beginner” and says you can play without the app. That keeps the technical requirements to a minimum.
1 to 4 players, ages 10 and up, co-operative puzzles and no batteries required.
We’ve put together a comprehensive, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Music and party games such as Hitster work for up to ten people, while SKYJO is designed for 2 to 8 players. For smaller groups, Azul, Rummikub or EXIT, which are designed for 1 to 4 players, are easier to manage.
It depends on the type of game. Short card games can take around 15 to 30 minutes. Board games, quiz games and escape room games often take 30 to 90 minutes. Check the stated playing time before you buy, and allow extra time to explain the rules.
The key things to consider are the recommended age, number of players, preferred type of game and time available. For families, games for ages 8 and up with simple basic rules are often a good choice. For adults and teenagers, party games, music games or games rated for ages 16 and up may be suitable. If you’re buying for a family, also check whether German instructions are included and whether the game requires an app, smartphone or batteries.