10 Board Games for People Who Don’t like Board Games
What do you play with someone who swears they don’t like games?
I don’t mean the people who truly hate games; no list will fix that. I’m talking about the ones who just haven’t found the right game yet. Maybe their only experience is with Monopoly or Uno and it left them thinking games just aren’t their thing.
For these players I try to find games that do three things:
- Simple Rules: no one wants to feel overwhelmed by a rulebook.
- Something Unique: modern components and mechanics show games aren’t what they used to be.
- Quick Playtime: 30-45 minutes max, so even skeptics won’t feel stuck.
So here are 10 go-to picks for people who say they don’t like board games that might just change their minds.
Best Party & Group Games (Fun even if you’re “not a game person”)
Wits and Wagers
Trivia where being wrong can still win you points. Perfect mix of clever and silly.
No Thanks!
Fast push-your-luck game where you’ll laugh at how quickly it escalates. A great option for card players!
Best Quick and Cute Games (small boxes, big fun!)
Sushi Go
Drafting made simple! It’s hard not to love the cute sushi illustrations. I love this game because it’s easy to teach so new players of all skill levels can play with confidence!
Trio
A simple memory game that has been a hit with any group we’ve played it with!
Love Letter
The beauty of Love Letter is in it’s simplicity that always ends up feeling very clever. It’s easy to play just about anywhere, and new players light up the moment they catch on to the strategy.
Best Light Strategy Games (Feel smart without being stressed)
Tsuro
Try to create a path that keeps your pawn safe and directs your opponents off the board. The last player left standing wins!
Karuba
A puzzle-y race game where everyone works on their own board. No fighting, lots of replay value!
Azul
Beautiful tiles, tactile satisfaction, and strategy that feels elegant but not overwhelming.
Best Travel-Friendly Pick (Perfect for downtime)
Connected Clues
This is more like an activity than a game. I like to bring cards along to play on car rides or plane travel. It’s perfect for a fun little holiday activity too!
Best “Big Box” Experience (Gateway into modern games)
Ticket to Ride
The train game that has converted countless non-gamers into bonafide players. Easy to learn, impressive on the table, and a refreshing step beyond Monopoly and Uno.
If you enjoyed this post on 10 Board Games for People Who Don’t like Board Games, then you may also enjoy:
Cooperative Board Games for Families
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