If you’re looking to buy board games and video games, there’s a wide range to choose from for families, children, teenagers and adults. But the product description alone won’t always help you find the right option. Games are often promoted as having plenty to offer, even when the number of players, age rating or extra equipment required doesn’t suit how you plan to use them.
“Two to eight players” sounds flexible. In practice, though, the game can feel very different with two players compared with eight. Some board games work particularly well in smaller groups, while party games only come into their own with more players.
So check:
A USK or age rating mainly describes whether a game’s content is suitable. It doesn’t necessarily mean that the rules, amount of text or controls will be easy for every child to understand. A game rated for ages 6 and up, for example, may include online features, purchases or communication options that make adult supervision a good idea.
For board games, parents should also check for small parts, the reading ability needed and how long it takes to explain the rules. For video games, the platform, storage requirements and online access requirements are key.
Card games and traditional board games usually don’t need batteries. Digital games, on the other hand, may require updates, storage space, a user account or a paid online subscription. Music games may also require a smartphone with an app and access to a streaming service.
Before you buy, make sure you distinguish between the one-off purchase price and any ongoing requirements.
For spontaneous games nights, short card games with straightforward rules are a good choice. Monopoly Deal, for example, is designed for 2 to 5 players and has an approximate playing time of 15 minutes. For a longer family games night, a board game that takes 30 to 45 minutes may be a better fit.
For video games, check whether they offer single-player, local multiplayer or online multiplayer. Minecraft for Nintendo Switch supports single-player, local play and online features, depending on the game mode. Some online services may require Nintendo and Microsoft accounts, as well as Nintendo Switch Online.
Look for the USK rating in Germany and read the manufacturer’s guidance. Games with small cards, pieces or figures should always be kept away from children under three, even if they’re suitable for older children.
For video games with a higher age rating, consider content such as violence, strong language or dark themes. “Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut” and “Days Gone” are rated USK 18 and PEGI 18, respectively, so they’re not suitable for minors.
Nintendo Switch games, PS4 games and Xbox games must match the platform you own. A PS4 version won’t automatically work on Xbox consoles. With pre-owned or imported products, the language, region and any included download codes may also differ.
Before you buy, check:
Why this product is a good fit: This compact card game is designed for 2 to 5 players, making it ideal for quick games at home or on the go.
The number of players, card format and approximate playing time of 15 minutes are clearly stated. No batteries are needed.
110 cards, compact dimensions and a recommended age of 8 and up.
Why this product is a good fit: Azul combines straightforward rules with tactical decisions and is designed for 2 to 4 players aged 8 and up.
The recommended playing time of 30 to 45 minutes, the number of players and the German edition are listed in the product details.
For 2 to 4 players, German edition and no batteries required.
Why this product is a good fit: This cooperative board game is designed specifically for 2 players aged 10 and up, making it a good choice for regular two-player games.
The target audience, fixed player count and 21 different airport scenarios make it clear what this game is designed for.
Cooperative gameplay, for 2 players and no batteries required.
Why this product is a good fit: The USK version, rated for ages 6 and up, offers Creative and Survival modes, as well as different ways to play on Nintendo Switch.
The German USK version and the requirements for local and online features are clearly specified.
TV, tabletop and handheld modes, plus support for up to four players on one console.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations in force across the EU.
For two players, it’s worth choosing games specifically designed for two. These include cooperative board games such as Sky Team, strategy games such as Azul and compact card games such as Monopoly Deal. Also check whether the game works fully with two players or only offers a scaled-down version.
Check the recommended age, USK rating, length of the rules and whether the game contains small parts. For video games, parents should also check online communication, in-app purchases and account settings. The age rating doesn’t replace your family’s own judgement.
It depends on the product. A physical game may need updates, storage space or an online subscription. For certain online features in Minecraft, you may need a Nintendo account, a Microsoft account and a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership. So it’s worth checking the details about online services and extra content before you buy.