Starting out with board games can feel like a lot at first. With shelves full of colourful boxes and complex strategy games, it’s hard to know where to start. But don’t worry, there are plenty of easy board games that are perfect for beginners. These games are fun, quick to learn, and great for bringing people together, whether you’re playing with friends, family, or brand new gamers.
In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the best games designed with newcomers in mind. These games work well for a wide range of player counts, don’t require long rulebooks, and can usually be played in about 20 to 45 minutes. If you’re new to tabletop gaming or want to introduce others to the hobby, these are excellent choices to get started.
1. Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a great game for beginners who enjoy simple strategy and a bit of geography. In this game, players collect coloured cards and use them to claim train routes across a map. The goal is to connect specific cities and complete your destination tickets while trying to block your opponents.
With its beautiful board, clear objectives, and easy-to-understand rules, Ticket to Ride is often one of the first games recommended to people new to playing a game. It supports 2 to 5 players and usually takes about 45 minutes to play.
2. King of Tokyo
If you want something faster and a little more chaotic, King of Tokyo is a fantastic choice. This game combines monster battles with dice rolling, giving players a chance to feel powerful while still being easy to learn.
In King of Tokyo, players take on the role of giant monsters battling for control of the city. You roll dice to attack, heal, gain energy, or earn points. It’s a great game for fans of action and excitement. With a player count of 2 to 6 and a playtime of around 20 minutes, it’s perfect for casual game nights or parties.
3. Sushi Go!
Sushi Go! is a fast-paced card game that’s super easy to pick up. Players are dealt a hand of sushi-themed cards, choose one, and pass the rest to the next player. You keep doing this until all the cards are gone, and then you score based on the combinations you collected.
It’s a light game with adorable artwork and simple scoring. Since everyone plays at the same time, there’s very little downtime, which makes it great for groups. It plays 2 to 5 players in about 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a tile-laying game that introduces new players to the idea of building a board as you go. In this game, players take turns placing tiles to create a medieval landscape of cities, roads, monasteries, and fields. After placing a tile, you can also place a follower to score points based on how that feature develops.
It’s a relaxing and strategic game that doesn’t take long to learn. Carcassonne is perfect for 2 to 5 players and typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. It’s also a great introduction to tile placement mechanics and spatial planning.
5. Qwixx
Qwixx is a roll and write game that mixes luck with light strategy. Each player gets a scoresheet with rows of numbers. On your turn, you roll six dice, and everyone at the table can choose to mark off numbers based on the results. The more numbers you cross off, the more points you earn.
There’s no waiting around because everyone plays on every turn. It’s quick, fun, and works well with just a few players or a full table. Qwixx is easy to teach and usually finishes in about 15 to 20 minutes.
6. Azul
Azul is a visually stunning game that’s easy to play but offers some nice depth. Players take turns choosing tiles and placing them on their personal board to complete patterns and earn points. The challenge comes from balancing your strategy with the tiles other players leave behind.
With its unique tile placement mechanics and elegant design, Azul is great for players who enjoy both strategy and aesthetics. It supports 2 to 4 players and lasts about 30 to 45 minutes.
7. Just One
Just One is a cooperative party game that works well with groups. In each round, one player tries to guess a mystery word while the others write down single-word clues. The twist? Any duplicate clues are eliminated before the guesser sees them.
It’s a simple, social game that’s perfect for parties or family gatherings. Since there’s no complicated setup or scoring, it’s very beginner-friendly. Just One is best with 4 to 7 players and takes about 20 minutes to play.
8. Kingdomino
Kingdomino is a mix of tile laying and simple strategy. Players take turns selecting tiles and adding them to their kingdom, trying to create matching terrains and score bonus points based on the number of crowns in each area.
It’s a smart yet easy game that’s great for newcomers. With quick turns and plenty of room for thoughtful decisions, it works well for families and couples. Kingdomino plays 2 to 4 players in around 15 to 20 minutes.
9. Love Letter
Love Letter is a card game that’s small in size but full of tension and fun. Using just a deck of cards, players try to knock each other out and win the favour of the princess. Each card has a different ability, and knowing when to play each one is key to winning.
It’s perfect for travel or quick games, supports 2 to 4 players, and usually takes about 20 minutes. The simplicity and replay value make it a great game for new players.
Start Your Board Game Journey
Getting into board games doesn’t mean you have to get into something complex right away. These easy board games are designed to welcome new players with simple rules, quick playtimes, and lots of fun. Whether you’re into card games, tile laying, or party games, there’s something on this list that’s sure to be a hit at your table.
Looking for Your Next Favourite Game?
Obsidian Games in Vernon has everything you need to get into board gaming or expand your collection. With our wide selection, knowledgeable staff, and a welcoming space for players of all levels, it’s the perfect local spot to explore something new.
Visit in-store or online and see what’s waiting on the shelf for you!
