The best solo board games you can play in the UK (top 5)
Board Games aren't just a great way to pass the time, they can also be fun and really educational too. And there is so much choice out there now when it comes to board games that there really is something for everyone and every taste.
There is no denying that playing board games with others can be fun, but just like with video games, sometimes it can be fun to play a board game on your own. There are lots of excellent solo board games out there, and we thought it would be useful to round up the best, based on our experiences and third-party reviews. Let's get into it:
ALIEN: Fate of the Nostromo
If your idea of a fun board game involves turning the lights down and getting a little creeped out, then the Alien Fate of the Nostromo board game is ideal for you. And although this board game can be fun when played with friends, we think it's extra enjoyable (and extra creepy) when played solo. You play as a member of the Nostromo crew (either Ripley, Lambert, Parker, Brett, or Dallas), and your task is to collect scrap, make items, and complete different objectives, all while trying to avoid the Alien. Playing it on your own definitely makes it a little scarier, but also a lot more interesting, as it's just you and the Alien. We love this board game and think it's perfect for playing on your own, learn more and buy it here - amazon.co.uk
Wingspan
Wingspan is such a popular board game that it has now actually been turned into a video game which is very popular on Steam. This board game is also a step down in scariness from the Alien board game - the idea is to attract birds to your wildlife reserves and to make them lay eggs and stay there. The more birds you manage to attract, the more points you win. You can play this game with others, but it's actually a very relaxing and enjoyable board game to play solo too. What we love about this game is that it's not only very fun and relaxing, but it's also educational - all of the birds included in the game are real birds, and you'll learn about what habitats they prefer as you play the game. The artwork of the birds on the cards is also beautiful. Learn more and buy it here - board-game.co.uk
The Princess Bride Adventure Book Game
Even if you're not familiar with The Princess Bride story, this strategy board game is really fun and challenging and is actually a great introduction to the story. We also really like the variation of this board game - rather than controlling 1 character, you control several characters at once, trying to get around the board by completing challenges. There is a sick grandson after you (apparently, that's part of The Princess Bride world) and a host of other interesting challenges which pop up as you play, and it all keeps you on your toes. It's a great board game to play solo because there is so much variation and the world-building is so interesting. Learn more and buy it here - thirstymeeples.co.uk
Terraforming Mars
This tactical board game is ideal for playing solo as it really allows you to lose yourself in the world-building (literally). The idea is simple - you have to terraform Mars. You collect cards which give you different materials and options for terraforming the Red Planet. It's set in the future and we love that you can get creative with your world-building. It's one of those board games that you could sit on your own and play for hours, so be prepared for that. Learn more and buy it here - amazon.co.uk
Spirit Island
The Spirit Island board game is all about defending your island from colonizing Invaders, but it feels much more like a spiritual game rather than a war game. The invaders range in difficulty to defend against, and it's up to you to be up to the challenge of defending your island. It's a great board game to play on your own as you really feel like you've taken charge of the island and that it's yours to defend. Learn more and buy it here - amazon.co.uk
Hopefully, this guide helps you to find a great board game to play solo, and proves that you don't need a group to have fun playing a board game. Let us know if you've played any of these or if you have any other suggestions for us! If you're interested in similar guides, check out our guide to the best spiritual board games you can buy.
Finn H
Finn is the editor of You Well and has been writing about travel, health, and more for over 10 years.