Joybuy Insights

Buying board games: How to find the right game for family, friends and game nights

Board games should suit the occasion, the group and the time available. In practice, however, people often buy a game that is barely used after being unpacked: the rules are too complicated, the number of players is not suitable or important additional costs have been overlooked. A structured selection process can help you avoid these disappointing purchases.

Common pitfalls when buying board games

1. The stated number of players is confused with the actual group size

A game for 2 to 10 players sounds flexible. However, the key question is whether it works just as well with two people as it does with a large group. Some party games need at least six or eight participants, while certain board games take considerably longer when played at full capacity.

So, before buying, check:

  • Minimum and maximum number of players
  • Recommended age
  • Average playing time
  • Space required on the table
  • Whether a round can be ended early

2. Digital requirements are overlooked

Music- and app-based card games may require a smartphone, an internet connection or a streaming account. When buying a game for a game night, make sure it is clear whether everyone has the necessary devices. For products that use batteries, also check whether these are included or need to be purchased separately.

3. Marketing terms do not replace specific details

Phrases such as ‘for the whole family’ or ‘quick to explain’ do not tell you very much. Verifiable details such as recommended age, number of players, playing time, materials and language of the instructions are much more informative. Safety information should also be considered when choosing gifts for families. Many games contain small parts and are therefore not suitable for children under three.

The most important buying criteria for board and card games

A number of players suited to the occasion

For a quiet evening for two, cooperative or tactical games with dedicated two-player support are ideal. For families, games for two to five participants are often more practical. At parties with lots of guests, party games for eight to 16 or more people may be suitable.

Check whether everyone is actively involved or whether large groups have to spend time waiting. For example, a game for 3 to 16 players may offer plenty of interaction, but it requires a group that enjoys talking, drawing or acting out concepts.

Age and complexity of the rules

The age recommendation provides guidance on understanding, content and handling the game materials. For board games for children aged eight and over, clear rules and manageable turns are usually important. Board games for adults or young people aged 12 or 16 and over, on the other hand, may include bluffing, cultural themes or digital features.

For families with different age groups, it is worth considering how easy the game is to get into. A game with just a few basic rules can still offer tactical decisions, while a comprehensive strategy game requires more time for the first play-through.

Playing time, materials and storage

Short dice or card games lasting around 15 minutes are ideal for travelling, breaks and playing several rounds in succession. A large board game lasting 45 minutes or more is better suited to a planned game night.

Storage is also important:

  • Card games should be stored in a dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Game boards and cards must not be cleaned with liquid.
  • Small parts should be returned to the box in full after every game.
  • For electronic games, check the battery type and what is included.
  • Damaged cards or plastic parts should not be used any further.

Our selection for different types of buyer

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
UNO Card Game

UNO Card Game

Why this product suits this profile: This card game is designed for 2 to 10 players aged seven and over, and can be started without any set-up. It is ideal for families, short game nights and playing on the go.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of players and recommended age are clearly stated. No batteries or app are required.

Main benefit & strengths

112 cards, special cards such as Skip and Reverse, plus customisable Wild cards, create varied rounds.

Suitable for: Quality-focused buyers
Asmodee Ticket to Ride Europe

Asmodee Ticket to Ride: Europe

Why this product suits this profile: This board game combines accessible rules with route planning for 2 to 5 people aged eight and over. The stated playing time is approximately 45 minutes or more.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The details about the materials, number of players, age and objective make it easy to assess whether the game is suitable before buying.

Main benefit & strengths

According to the product description, the game contains 250 game components and does not require batteries.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent players
KOSMOS Sky Team

KOSMOS 684044 Sky Team

Why this product suits this profile: This cooperative strategy game is designed for exactly two people aged ten and over. It offers 21 airport scenarios and is ideal for couples or regular two-player sessions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fixed number of players prevents false expectations about playing in large groups. The scenarios create varied gameplay.

Main benefit & strengths

Secret dice placement, a cooperative objective and different difficulty levels are clearly described.

Suitable for: Party and family groups
Hitster Original

Hitster Original

Why this product suits this profile: This music-based card game is designed for 2 to 10 people aged 16 and over. It is ideal for parties, family celebrations and groups with different musical tastes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The technical requirements are clearly stated: a smartphone, free app, internet connection and Spotify account are needed to play the music.

Main benefit & strengths

More than 300 music cards and an objective based on placing songs in chronological order create varied group games.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

More ideas for choosing a game by occasion

  • Family games: Ticket to Ride: Europe, UNO or Monopoly are ideal for playing together with children of the relevant recommended age.
  • Party games: Activity Compact Edition is designed for 3 to 16 players aged 12 and over, combining drawing, explaining and acting.
  • Games for adults: Hitster Original or Hitster Bingo combine music, memory and group discussion.
  • Two-player strategy games: Sky Team is designed exclusively for two players and focuses on cooperative decision-making.
  • Travel and quick rounds: QWIXX XL offers 2 to 5 people a stated playing time of approximately 15 minutes. Compact card games generally need very little storage space.

FAQs about board games

Which board games are suitable for two people?

Look for an explicitly stated player count starting at two. Cooperative games such as Sky Team are specifically designed for two people. UNO can also be played with two, although the gameplay changes compared with a larger group.

How long do board games last?

Their lifespan depends on the materials, storage and frequency of use. Cards and game boards should be stored in a dry, clean place away from direct sunlight. With frequent use, it is advisable to check regularly for bent cards, missing parts or damaged plastic components.

Which board games make good gifts for families?

When choosing gifts for families, look for games with a clear age recommendation, flexible player count and straightforward set-up. UNO is compact and suitable for larger groups. Ticket to Ride: Europe offers a board game for 2 to 5 people, while Activity Compact Edition is ideal for larger social gatherings. The key considerations remain age, interests and the group’s usual size.