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A shared games night rarely fails because there is not enough choice. More often, the game you buy is not suitable for the age group, takes considerably longer than expected or requires accessories that are easy to miss in the product description. That is why it pays to take a closer look at the number of players, age rating, game mode and ongoing costs when choosing board games and video games for the whole family.
The manufacturer's age recommendation is an important guide, but it does not replace an assessment of your particular family. A game rated for ages 3 and over may contain small parts that are unsuitable for younger children. Games for ages 6 or 8 and over may require reading ability, quick reactions or longer periods of concentration.
Therefore, look out for:
Many family games only really work well with a certain number of players. A card game for 2 to 6 people is not automatically suitable for a group of eight. Conversely, a game for 4 to 8 people may offer little variety when played by two.
With video games, you should distinguish between local multiplayer, online multiplayer and cooperative play. Online features may require internet access and, depending on the platform, a paid membership.
A collection with lots of game variations sounds versatile. What matters, however, is whether your family actually knows and regularly uses the games included. You should also check the size of the packaging, how the components are stored and how long it takes to set up. A compact card game may be more practical for travelling than a large board game box containing lots of separate pieces.
When choosing children's games, consider the age recommendation and warning notice together. A game with small parts is generally not suitable for children under 3, even if older siblings are playing too. For video games in Germany, the USK rating is an important guide. It assesses the age suitability based on the content, not the difficulty.
The USK rating should be considered alongside the player's age and your family rules. For example, a PS5 game rated USK 18 is not a suitable gift for children or younger teenagers, even if it includes a cooperative mode.
Compare the information on the packaging with your usual playing situation:
The time available also matters. Quick card games such as Dodelido are ideal for short rounds, while strategy games and escape-room games require more peace and concentration.
For board games, robust cardboard or plastic components, tidy storage and a sturdy game board are practical considerations. Check whether batteries are required. Electronic children's games may be ready to play straight away, but depending on how often they are used, they can consume batteries.
For video games, you should also check:
Why this product suits this profile: This two-player game has simple rules, requires no batteries and can be started without lengthy preparation.
The game is clearly limited to two players. This prevents false expectations of a large family game.
For 2 players aged 6 and over, with no batteries required and a game concept based on horizontal, vertical or diagonal rows.
Why this product suits this profile: This cooperative board game combines shared decision-making with varied tasks for 1 to 6 players aged 8 and over.
The details clearly state the number of players, age range, materials and that no batteries are required. This makes it easier to assess before buying.
Cooperative game for 1 to 6 players, made from cardboard, with no assembly or batteries required.
Why this product suits this profile: This collection for ages 6 and over is aimed at households that want to keep several classic types of game ready for different groups.
The scope is described as more than 100 game options, with specific classics listed. This makes the selection more transparent than a vague description such as “lots of games”.
Includes chess, draughts, Nine Men's Morris, backgammon, rummy and Chinese checkers, among others; wooden playing pieces and dice cups are included.
Why this product suits this profile: Up to four people can play together locally on one Nintendo Switch. The USK rating is 6.
The platform, maximum number of players and local multiplayer mode are clearly stated. This makes it easy to check whether it is suitable for the family TV.
Nintendo Switch game for up to four players, with TV, tabletop and handheld play.
We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.
For children aged 3 and over, simple children's games such as a classic game collection or a reaction game are worth considering. With younger children, adults should check the small components and shorten the rules where necessary.
From the age of 8, card games, strategy games and cooperative board games broaden the choice. Dodelido is designed for 2 to 6 players aged 8 and over and requires quick reactions. Its compact format also makes it suitable for travelling.
For older teenagers and adults, PS5 games such as Borderlands 4 may be of interest. The USK 18 rating must be taken into account here. For a shared puzzle-solving experience, an EXIT game for ages 12 and over is a good alternative. As certain materials may be altered or used up during play, you should consider the one-time nature of the game before buying.
Age, number of players and game duration are the key factors. Simple card games or two-player games are ideal for short rounds. For several players, board games with clear rules and a stated capacity of 3 to 6 players are generally more practical. With children under 8, adults should initially go through the instructions together.
Check that the game is compatible with the console you already have and whether multiplayer works locally or only online. You should also have enough controllers for everyone playing. The USK rating, maximum number of players and any Nintendo Switch Online requirements should also be on your shopping list.
Their lifespan depends on the materials, storage and how they are used. Cards stay in good condition for longer when stored somewhere dry and protected. Game boards and cardboard markers should not be bent or exposed to liquid. With games containing lots of small parts, storing everything neatly after each round helps prevent anything from getting lost.