Best Cheap Games 2025: Top 12 Reviewed
Board games don’t have to cost an arm and a leg! We know the struggle of wanting fun without breaking the bank. When we pick our favorite cheap games, we focus on games that offer quick setup, easy rules, and exciting gameplay. Whether you’re into bluffing, strategy, or just plain chaos, there’s something for everyone. The best thing? These cheap games offer endless replayability and can easily become your new go-to for game night. Say goodbye to your wallet woes and hello to lots of laughs with friends and family. Let’s explore these affordable gaming treasures!
On this list:
12 Love Letter
We picked Love Letter because it’s affordable and packs a lot of fun into a small package. No need to break the bank for a good group game night. With its simple rules and quick rounds, it’s easy for new players to learn and old players to master. We always take it to the pub — it fits in your pocket! It’s a game of deduction and quick thinking. And trust us, watching your mate’s face when they get knocked out is priceless.
11 Sushi Go!
We love Sushi Go! because cheap games that offer great replayability are rare. This card game lets you collect sushi combos for points, and it really brings out competitive spirits. It’s easy to teach, which stops us from fumbling with rules for ages. And its cute sushi art never fails to bring a smile. Whether you’re a sushi lover or a card game fan, it’s pure fun. Plus, it’s a great icebreaker for those awkward family gatherings.
10 Hanabi
Hanabi is a cooperative card game where you can’t see your own cards. We chose this because it’s all about communication and trust. Imagine trying to give hints without saying a word — it’s as hard as it sounds! But that’s what makes it unique and enjoyable. It’s not just a cheap game; it’s an experience in frustration and triumph. You either end up congratulating each other or laughing at your collective failure.
9 The Mind
The Mind is a hit among cheap games because it turns silence into strategy. It’s like telepathy without the superpowers. You can’t talk or signal. You just play cards in ascending order. What happens when you guess wrong? Hilarity. It’s simple but challenging, and you’ll be surprised how close you can get to reading someone’s mind after a few rounds. It’s a fun, quick game perfect for breaking the ice or filling the gap between longer games.
8 No Thanks!
No Thanks! made our list because it’s a cheap game that keeps us engaged and thinking. You only have cards and chips, but it creates a wild ride of risk-taking and strategy. We love how it’s easy to teach and quick to play. You can decide in seconds whether to take the card or not, but that decision can cost you, literally. We often find ourselves shouting ‘No thanks!’ around the table, and isn’t that what makes a game fun?
7 For Sale
For Sale is a quick and fun auction game about buying and selling properties. We added it because it’s brilliant how a cheap game can mimic real estate ups and downs. We appreciate its easy rules and fast play. The best part is that you get to play the market with fake money, so no real financial loss. It’s a great way to practice bidding wars and strategy without risking your wallet. You’ll really feel like a savvy investor by the end.
6 Coup
Coup is a game of deception and strategy, ideal for those who love bluffing. We couldn’t resist adding it because it’s engaging and keeps us on our toes. With each turn, you must decide whether to call your friend’s bluff or believe their lie. It’s budget-friendly, quick, and filled with tense moments that can turn the tides. It always leads to laughter, accusations, and sometimes, angry looks. A true test of poker faces.
5 Rhino Hero
Rhino Hero is a delightful stacking game that combines dexterity with strategy. We picked it for the list because it’s cheap and fun for all ages. You stack cards to build a skyscraper, and let’s face it, who doesn’t love toppling towers? It’s easy enough for kids but challenging enough for adults, making it the perfect family game. Balancing fun and frustration, it might cause both laughter and a tiny bit of nail-biting.
4 Qwixx
Qwixx is a fast-paced dice game that’s low-cost but high-reward. We chose it because it’s a simple game of numbers and luck. You play with dice, marking off numbers on your sheet, aiming for that high score. Even when it’s not your roll, you’re involved — no idle hands here. It’s an addictive game that’s easy to learn and a breeze to play. Perfect for a quick break or when you want something straightforward.
3 Welcome To…
We picked Welcome To… because it’s a budget-friendly flip-and-write game that lets you feel like a city planner. Filling in your little neighborhood, you’ll find yourself rethinking decisions, but that’s part of the fun. Sure, it sounds simple, but the intricate planning challenge is oh-so-satisfying. You compete to design the perfect suburb, and if things don’t work out, it’s back to the imaginary drawing board for another go.
2 6 Nimmt!
6 Nimmt! is a card game that’s both affordable and addictive. It’s a game where bad decisions give you cows, literally. We picked this one for its simple concept and how it keeps us coming back. You try to avoid picking up cards with cows, but that’s easier said than done. It’s hilarious to see a table of friends sigh collectively when stuck with a bunch of cows. It’s quick, fun, and a truly cheap gem.
1 Ticket to Ride: Stay at Home
This special version of Ticket to Ride is perfect for those who adore a classic. We picked it because it captures the same joy in a smaller box and price tag. The familiarity is comforting, and we love how it innovatively brings the train adventure home. The rules are easy, and it’s a great pick for families and travelers alike. You still get that ticket-collecting thrill, just without the need for deep pockets.
0 The Crew: Quest for Planet Nine
Our top pick is The Crew: Quest for Planet Nine because it redefines cheap games by offering a cooperative trick-taking experience. There’s something special about strategizing with friends to complete missions, and this game does it excellently. We love how it challenges us each time, with a story arc that keeps us coming back for more. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys shared victories and tense moments. We always end up discussing tactics long after the game’s over — that’s a sign of a great game!
