Small board games make perfect stocking stuffers. They are easy to find, inexpensive and there are so many different games that there’s something for everyone. That said, staring down the options in the game aisle can be overwhelming, so here is a list of our favorite small board games for this holiday season.
These games can be found at major retailers, but we ask that you give your local game store a chance first. They offer games at the same price as the box stores but will greatly appreciate your business.
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In Vino Morte
In Vino Morte is a bluffing game that is like playing the “Battle of Wits” scene from The Princess Bride in real life. In the game, the dealer will choose and distribute wine/poison cards. Each player can keep theirs and drink or swap it with another player. It’s quick, fun and sneaky and works with a large group from Button Shy Games.
Game Mechanics:
- 3-9 Players
- Bluffing/Table Reading Game
- Playtime: 10-15 minutes per round
- Party Setting/Novice Player Friendly
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Plotalot
Plotalot is a small game that packs hours of fun. In this game, players must ride out opponents’ attacks and fill their space with vegetables. Protect, steal, fertilize or unleash pests; do whatever you can to earn the most money from the land and be victorious. Plotalot is a fun, family-friendly fair from Moonstone Games.
Game Mechanics:
- 2-5 Players
- Playtime: 20-45 minutes
- Conflict/Strategy Card Game
Friday
Friday is a solo deck-building game in which you optimize your deck of fight cards to defeat the island’s hazards. It is the second game based on the classic story of Robinson Crusoe and his loyal partner, Friday (Freitag). I’d suggest it as a gift for more experienced players who like narrative or puzzle-based adventures and are from Rio Grande Games.
Game Mechanics:
- Solo Play
- Playtime: 20-30 minutes
- Strategy Deck Building Game
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Dobble Connect
Dobble Connect is a great game to bring to any holiday party or drop into any stocking. You play this game in teams, working to be the fastest team to connect four cards of your color in a row. Everyone plays simultaneously, so watch for the other teams and block them with your cards before they do.
Game Mechanics:
- 2-8 Players
- Playtime: 15 minute rounds
- Party Game/Pattern Recognition
Catan: Console Editon
This final entry is a board game turned video game, which makes this usually bulking board game the perfect stocking stuffer size. Catan is a classic, beloved tabletop board game that was many people’s first introduction to the hobby. If you have a board and video game player on your list, this is the perfect crossover gift. Especially for busy nights when getting a gaming party together in one room is impossible.
Catan: Console Edition launched for the Nintendo Switch on November 9, 2023, just in time for the holidays!
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