Joybuy Insights

Family board games: how to choose the right ones for a great games night

Family board games bring different age groups together. In practice, though, not every family game suits every household: a game for two rarely works for a larger group, while a complex strategy game can quickly overwhelm younger children. And the label ‘for the whole family’ doesn’t automatically tell you the age range it’s really suitable for.

If you’re looking to buy board games, card games or party games, don’t focus solely on well-known titles and eye-catching packaging. The key things to consider are the number of players, age recommendation, playing time, length of the rules and the kind of interaction involved.

Common pitfalls when buying family games

1. Misjudging the number of players

Some games are listed as suitable for 2 to 10 players, but need a certain group size to get going. Other titles work only with two players or at least four. Before you buy, think about whether the game is for a family games night with four players, a party or groups of varying sizes.

2. Mistaking age recommendations for a guarantee of quality

‘Ages 8+’ doesn’t mean that every child of that age will understand the rules at the same pace. Games for ages 6+ may require different reading abilities, while games for ages 10+ or 13+ often call for more tactical thinking and longer periods of concentration. The age recommendation is a safety and guidance note, not a guarantee that the game will be a good fit.

3. Overlooking accessories and technical requirements

Classic board games and card games don’t need batteries. Music games such as HITSTER, however, require a smartphone, the relevant app and access to Spotify to be played in full. If you’d rather not have to meet these requirements, choose a completely analogue game. It’s also important to keep small playing cards, pieces and other parts away from children under three.

Key things to consider when choosing board games

Number of players and group size

Check the minimum and maximum number of players. Games for 2 to 4 players are a good fit for smaller households. For family gatherings or parties, games for 4 to 10 players or fun group games with teams are more practical. For team games, also check whether the players can be divided evenly.

Playing time and complexity of the rules

Short card games that take around 15 to 30 minutes per round are easy to fit into an impromptu games night. A game of Monopoly, a strategy game or a co-operative legacy game can take considerably longer. Check whether the stated playing time is for one round, one chapter or a complete game.

Another factor is how easy it is to get started:

  • Simple rules: suitable for children, occasional players and groups with changing members.
  • Moderate complexity: a good fit for families with older children and regular games nights.
  • Multi-part or evolving rules: interesting for regular players who want to play over several sessions.

Materials, storage and safety

Check the product details for information about the cards, game board, playing pieces and storage. A lid or built-in compartment can make setting up easier and help prevent pieces from going missing. Card games should be stored in a dry place, and liquids should be kept away from games with cardboard parts.

Always follow the age recommendation and warnings on the packaging. Small parts may present a choking hazard. For younger children, adult supervision is a good idea, especially when the rules need explaining or the game materials need sorting.

Our picks for different types of players

A good fit for: Budget-conscious beginners
MATTEL Games - Skip-Bo Junior (HHB37)

MATTEL Games - Skip-Bo Junior (HHB37)

Why this product is a good fit: This card game is designed for 2–4 players aged 5 and over, with two levels of difficulty. It’s a good choice for families looking to start with an easy-to-learn game.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The recommended number of players and age range are clearly stated. The two levels of play help make sure the rules don’t remain too challenging for younger children.

Key benefits and strengths

Numbered stacking from 1 to 10, two ways to play and a compact size of 15 × 10 × 3 cm.

A good fit for: Quality-conscious buyers
Schmidt Spiele 49120 Family Games Classic Game Collection

Schmidt Spiele 49120 Family Games Classic Game Collection

Why this product is a good fit: This collection is aimed at players aged 6 and over, with more than 50 games to choose from, including classic board and dice games.

How this product avoids the pitfall

You’re not limited to a single game mechanic. The range of classics offers alternatives for different ages and preferences.

Key benefits and strengths

More than 50 games, no batteries needed and a size of 37 × 26,8 × 5,7 cm for keeping everything together.

A good fit for: Special occasions and regular players
Schmidt Spiele 49457 Ziggurat

Schmidt Spiele 49457 Ziggurat

Why this product is a good fit: This co-operative strategy game is designed for 2–4 players aged 10 and over. Its six chapters, with changes that carry through the game, make it a good choice for groups who play together regularly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description gives the number of players, age recommendation and average time per chapter. This makes it easier to work out how much space and time you’ll need before buying.

Around 45 minutes per chapter, a co-operative style of play, and new rules or materials as the game progresses.
A good fit for: Music fans and larger groups
Hitster Original

Hitster Original

Why this product is a good fit: This music-based card game is suitable for 2–10 players aged 16 and over. It’s ideal for parties, get-togethers with friends and games nights with a big group.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The requirements are clear: a smartphone, the HITSTER app and access to Spotify to play the music. That way, you won’t mistake it for a completely analogue game.

Key benefits and strengths

More than 300 tracks, putting songs in chronological order and play for up to 10 people.

Looking for more options?

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

Other types of games to consider

Depending on the occasion, other board games may also be a good choice:

  • Games for ages 6+: for example, a classic game collection or a simple guessing game.
  • Games for ages 8+: Monopoly, Phase 10 or short strategy games with straightforward rules.
  • Card games for 2 to 6 players: ideal for smaller families and quick rounds.
  • Party games for ages 13+ or 16+: Taboo, Activity or HITSTER for larger groups.
  • Gift ideas for families: a game collection, a portable card game or a title with several different ways to play.

FAQs about family board games

Which board games are suitable for children and adults?

Games with clear rules, a short introduction and adjustable difficulty are a good choice. A game collection for ages 6+, Skip-Bo Junior for ages 5+ or an observation and reaction game can work well across generations. You should still follow the manufacturer’s age recommendation.

How many board games do you need for a games night?

For a typical games night, one longer main game and a short card game as an alternative are usually enough. If guests come and go, a collection with several different games may be more practical. The key things to consider are the time available, group size and how long players can stay focused.

How should you store board games and card games?

Games should be stored in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, and ideally laid flat or kept upright and secure. Cards and cardboard parts must be kept dry. Compartments, bags or built-in storage help keep small pieces together. If you’re buying a used game, check before you buy that all the cards, dice and playing pieces are included.