Joybuy Insights

Buying Games: How to Find the Right Board and Video Games for Every Occasion

If you’re looking to buy games, you’re faced with a huge choice: board games, card games, video games, family games and party games all differ significantly in age rating, number of players, playing time and technical requirements. A flashy box or a well-known brand alone doesn’t tell you much about whether a game will suit your household.

Common Pitfalls When Buying Games

1. Misjudging the Number of Players

A game that says “for up to ten people” can still be far less enjoyable with just two players. Always check the full player count and think about how many people will actually be playing regularly.

2. Overlooking Age Ratings and Content

The USK rating isn’t a recommendation for personal taste, but it’s an important guide. A game rated USK 18 is not intended for children or teenagers. With board and card games, you should also pay attention to warnings about small parts and the recommended age group.

3. Hidden Requirements That Make Video Games More Expensive

When buying Nintendo Switch 2 games or PS5 games, check the platform, storage medium and online requirements. Some titles need an internet connection, an online subscription or optional in-app purchases. Physical games may also require you to download additional data.

These Criteria to Check Before You Buy

Platform and Game Mode

When you buy video games, compatibility is the first thing to check. A PS4 title might include a PS5 version, but it won’t automatically use all the features of the newer console. With Nintendo games, you need to distinguish between Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.

Also look at the game mode:

  • Single-player for independent play;
  • local multiplayer for playing together on the same screen;
  • online multiplayer requiring an internet connection;
  • co-op games, where several people play together rather than against each other.

Age Rating and Target Audience

For families, games with a clear age rating, straightforward rules and a suitable playing time work best. Games for children aged 6 and over often contain small parts, so you must check the packaging warnings. Games for adults, on the other hand, can include complex, humorous or explicitly adult content.

Playing Time, Language and Space Requirements

A good game for a short games night needs different qualities from a strategy game that fills an evening. Check:

  • average playing time;
  • German game language or German instructions;
  • table space needed;
  • number of cards, playing pieces or board sections;
  • batteries, app or internet access;
  • storage and care of materials.

With board games, sturdy cards, clearly readable text and an easy-to-follow instruction manual are practical signs of quality. With video games, what matters is the platform, the disc or cartridge, the USK rating and the available game modes.

Our Selection by User Profile

Best for: Budget-conscious beginners
UNO Card Game

UNO Card Game

Why this product suits the profile: This card game is designed for 2 to 10 players aged 7 and over, and requires neither batteries nor any complicated preparation.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The player count and age group are clearly stated. There are no ongoing online costs or mandatory app.

Main advantage & strengths

112 cards, 2–10 players and simple rules make it ideal for family get-togethers and spontaneous games nights.

Best for: Buyers with high quality expectations
Ticket to Ride Europe

Asmodee Ticket to Ride: Europe

Why this product suits the profile: This strategy game combines a structured game board with 2–5 players, a recommended age of 8 and over, and a playing time of around 45 minutes or more.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The details on player count, materials and age group make planning easier. The rules are designed for a manageable learning curve.

Main advantage & strengths

Building railway routes through European cities, 250 pieces and components made from paper, cardboard and plastic deliver a clearly defined gaming experience.

Best for: Special uses & frequent players
It Takes Two for PS4

Electronic Arts – It Takes Two for PS4

Why this product suits the profile: This adventure is designed exclusively for cooperative play with two people – locally or online using the Friends Pass.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The required two-player mode is clearly described. Buyers therefore won’t expect a traditional single-player game.

Main advantage & strengths

PS4 version with upgrade to PS5, German subtitles and instructions, plus local and online co-op functionality.

Best for: Budget-conscious beginners
Yoshi and the Mysterious Book

Nintendo Switch 2 – Yoshi and the Mysterious Book

Why this product suits the profile: This single-player adventure is designed for Nintendo Switch 2 and supports TV, tabletop and handheld modes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The platform, game mode, languages and USK rating of 6 and over are all clearly stated, making it easier for families to choose.

Main advantage & strengths

One player, multiple game modes and German language support make this title suitable for solo play.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations in force in the EU.

FAQ About Buying Games

Which games are suitable for a games night with several people?

For larger groups, party games and card games that are quick to explain work well. UNO is designed for 2–10 people. Activity Original can be played with 3–16 people according to the product details. Also check the age rating and whether drawing, explaining or acting things out is suitable for the group.

What should I look out for when buying PS5 games?

Check the platform, the USK rating, the format and the online or co-op mode. For titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the details include PS5 compatibility, a USK rating of 16 and over, and Blu-ray as the medium. Games with online features may require an internet connection and additional services.

Are board games or video games cheaper in the long run?

That depends on how you use them. Board games usually have no ongoing costs after purchase, but they need enough space and other players. Video games can require digital add-ons, online services or updates. So when planning your budget, you should consider not just the purchase price, but also accessories, subscriptions and technical requirements.