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Whether it’s a games night, a children’s birthday party, a family get-together or a party with friends, board games and games for the whole family should suit the age group, number of players and time available. In practice, unclear age guidance, missing information about how long a game takes or an unsuitable style of play can quickly lead to disappointing purchases.
This guide explains which criteria matter when choosing board games, card games, party games, puzzles and active toys. Our recommendations are based on clear product information and a range of different uses.
A game for two to four people may not be the best choice for a larger family gathering. Conversely, a party game for ten people could be unnecessarily involved for a quiet games night for two. Before you buy, check the stated minimum and maximum number of players.
“Age 4+”, “age 8+” or “age 16+” indicates more than just the level of difficulty. Small parts may pose a choking risk for younger children. With board and card games, you should also consider whether children can understand the rules on their own or will need help from an adult.
Phrases such as “for the whole family” or “quick fun” tell you little about how a game works in practice. More useful details include playing time, materials, number of cards, set-up time, the language of the instructions and any additional equipment needed. Music games, for example, may require a smartphone, an app or a Spotify account.
For a quick game, card games with a playing time of around 15 minutes are a good choice. According to the product details, Dobble Kids is designed for 2 to 8 players aged 4+ and offers five ways to play. A strategic board game such as Ticket to Ride: Europe is for 2 to 5 players aged 8+ and takes around 45 minutes or longer.
For parties, games designed for larger groups make sense. According to the product description, Hitster Celebration is for 2 to 10 players aged 16+. Hitster Bingo is for up to ten players and combines music knowledge with a game board.
Check the manufacturer’s age guidance and any safety warnings. Younger siblings should not play unsupervised with games that contain cards, playing pieces or small tiles. This applies, for example, to Azul, Monopoly Harry Potter and Ticket to Ride: Europe.
For pre-school children, a basketball set can be an alternative to traditional children’s games. The height of the height-adjustable basketball set for children is stated as between 100 and 150 centimetres. The product details recommend it for children aged 3 to 8 and say that the base can be filled with water or sand. A flat surface, secure assembly and adult supervision are still essential.
Card games and puzzles are often made from paper or cardboard and should be stored in a dry place. The 1,000-piece Hogwarts Castle puzzle from Schmidt Spiele is described as having a matt, linen-textured surface and a finished size of 37.3 × 27.2 centimetres. According to the product details, it is for ages 12 and over.
For digital or music-based games, check whether you’ll need a smartphone, an internet connection, an app or batteries. According to the product description, Hitster Original uses a free app and Spotify to play music. Hitster Bingo also requires three AAA batteries for the scanning function. Make sure these ongoing requirements suit the equipment you already have before you buy.
Why this product suits this profile: This compact card game needs no set-up and takes around 15 minutes per round, making it ideal for an impromptu family game.
The number of players, age guidance and playing time are all clearly stated, making it easier to judge whether it’s right for a quick game.
For 2 to 8 players aged 4+; includes five described ways to play and a German-language edition.
Why this product suits this profile: This German-language strategy game combines clearly explained rules with a longer playing time, making it a good choice for regular games nights.
The details specify 2 to 5 players, ages 8+ and a playing time of around 45 minutes or more, helping you plan realistically.
Board game for 2 to 5 players; according to the product description, you can learn the rules in around five minutes.
Why this product suits this profile: This music and party game is designed for larger groups and gatherings with adults and teenagers aged 16 and over.
The product details give the number of players and minimum age, and explain that the game can be played on its own or as an expansion.
Over 300 music cards according to the product description; for 2 to 10 players aged 16+.
Why this product suits this profile: This height-adjustable set is suitable for play areas indoors or in the garden when you’re looking for an active way to keep children entertained.
The details on height, base diameter, age and filling requirements help you check the space and safety requirements before buying.
Height-adjustable from 100 to 150 centimetres; according to the product details, the set includes a hoop, backboard, base and ball.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Card games with simple rules and simultaneous actions can be easy to get into. For families with children aged 8 and over, strategy games such as Ticket to Ride: Europe or Azul are also worth considering. The stated age guidance still matters, as does whether an adult is happy to explain the rules.
How long they last depends on the quality of the materials, how they’re stored and how often they’re played. Cardboard components should be kept dry and out of direct sunlight. After each game, put all the cards and playing pieces back in the original packaging.
It depends on the product. According to the product details, Hitster Original requires a smartphone, the relevant app, an internet connection and Spotify to play music. Hitster Bingo requires three AAA batteries for the scanning function. Before you buy, check that you have the technical equipment you’ll need.