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

Board games, family games and card games differ considerably in terms of pace, age recommendation, number of players and complexity. However, an attractively designed cover says little about whether a game is actually right for your group. If you choose based solely on the theme or brand name, you could easily end up buying a product that stays in the cupboard.

The Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer therefore filters the most important selection criteria from the product details. Three common pitfalls in particular often lead to disappointing purchases:

• The number of players is misjudged: A game for two people will not automatically work well with five or six players. Conversely, a group game can lose much of its excitement when played by two.
• The age recommendation is mistaken for the difficulty level: “Aged 8+” does not necessarily mean the gameplay is simple. Strategy games and escape-room games can also be challenging for adults.
• Reusability is overlooked: In some escape-room games, cards or other materials are changed during the course of the game. This may be part of the concept, but it often means the game cannot be played more than once.

Which criteria matter when buying board games

1. Number of players and playing time

First, check how many people are likely to take part regularly. For a classic family game night, games for 2 to 5 players or with a flexible player count are ideal. Party games and certain card games are more practical for larger groups.

The playing time should also suit the occasion:

• 15 to 30 minutes: suitable for spontaneous games, children or playing several games in a row
• 30 to 60 minutes: ideal for a planned game night
• Over 60 minutes: appealing to experienced groups with plenty of time
• Variable round length: practical when younger and older players are playing together

With card games such as UNO or SKYJO, you can usually start a round without much preparation. A more extensive strategy game such as Ticket to Ride: Europe, on the other hand, requires more space and a longer playing session.

2. Age, language and difficulty level

The age recommendation is an important safety and guidance aid. Small parts can pose a choking hazard to children under three years of age. For children aged 8 and over, Azul, Ticket to Ride: Europe and SKYJO, for example, may be suitable, while many escape-room games are recommended only for ages 10 or 12 and over.

You should also check the language of the instructions. A game in German makes it easier to get started, particularly when playing family games with children or occasional players. When buying, you should also distinguish between the following types of game:

• Co-operative games: The group works towards a shared objective.
• Strategy games: Planning, resource management or tactical decisions are the main focus.
• Escape-room games: Puzzles, clues and an unfolding story shape the gameplay.
• Party games: Quick explanations and social interaction matter more than complex rules.
• Puzzles for adults: The activity itself is the focus and usually does not require a set number of players.

3. Materials, space requirements and additional features

Playing cards and game boards are often made from paper or card. Store these components somewhere dry and flat, or in their original packaging. Moisture can cause cards to ripple and puzzle pieces to warp. A dry cloth is normally sufficient for cleaning; liquids should not come into contact with the game pieces.

If a game includes digital features, it is worth checking the technical requirements. EXIT – The Game – Adventure on Catan can be played without an app, while the free KOSMOS app optionally provides a timer and clues. Music games such as Hitster Bingo require a compatible device and a connection to Spotify for playback. These additional features can enhance the gaming experience, but they are not the same as a completely analogue board game.

Our selection by player profile

Ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners

UNO Card Game

Why this product suits the profile: The rules are quick to explain, and with 2 to 10 players, this card game is suitable for families, friends and spontaneous games.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated player count covers both small and larger groups. The game requires no batteries and can be started without any set-up.

Main benefit & strengths

112 cards, an age recommendation of 7+ and four colours with action cards allow for short, varied games.

Ideal for: Buyers seeking high quality

Asmodee Ticket to Ride: Europe

Why this product suits the profile: This family game combines accessible rules with route planning and is suitable for 2 to 5 people aged 8 and over.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify the number of players, age range and an approximate playing time of 45 minutes or more. This makes it easier to estimate the space and time required in advance.

Main benefit & strengths

German edition, a game board featuring European cities and rules that, according to the product description, can be explained in around five minutes.

Ideal for: Specific uses & frequent players

Amigo 6900 – Wizard

Why this product suits the profile: This card game is designed for 3 to 6 people aged 10 and over, making it a good choice for groups looking for tactical decisions and replayable rounds.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specific group size and approximate playing time of 45 minutes prevent it from being mistaken for a simple party game.

Main benefit & strengths

German instructions, a compact format and card components made from card for regular use at home or on the go.

Ideal for: Escape-room and puzzle fans

Kosmos EXIT – The Game – Adventure on Catan

Why this product suits the profile: This co-operative escape-room game combines a Catan-inspired story with puzzles for 1 to 4 people aged 10 and over.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The “Beginner” classification makes the difficulty level clearer. The app is optional, and no batteries are required.

Main benefit & strengths

Working together to solve clues, compact packaging and a tutorial help you get started with the genre.

Quick checks before buying

1. Does the number of players suit your usual group?
2. Is the age recommendation suitable for everyone who will be playing?
3. Are the instructions and cards available in German?
4. Is an app, smartphone or internet connection required?
5. Can the game be played more than once, or is it a one-time game?
6. Is your table large enough for the game board, cards or puzzle?

For puzzle fans, 1000-piece puzzles for adults can be a good alternative to classic family games. The Ravensburger puzzle “Beautiful Castles: Eilean Donan Castle” is listed as having 1000 pieces, a finished size of approximately 70 × 50 cm and an age recommendation of 14+. If you are looking for a smaller format or a particular design, compare the number of pieces, finished dimensions and surface texture.

Frequently asked questions about board games

Which board games are suitable for children aged 8 and over?

Games such as Azul or Ticket to Ride: Europe may be suitable if the children understand the rules and play with the recommended number of players. You should also check the warnings about small parts and supervise younger players while setting up the game.

What is the difference between a board game and a card game?

Board games often use a game board, playing pieces or tokens. Card games are based mainly on cards and usually require less space. The boundaries are fluid: many family games combine cards, boards and other components.

Can escape-room games be played more than once?

That depends on the specific model. With EXIT games, materials may be folded, written on or altered while solving the puzzles. For this reason, read the information about reusability before buying. For regular game nights, card games or modular strategy games are often more practical.