2024’s Best Reddit 2 Player Board Games: Top 9
Welcome to our guide on the 9 ‘reddit best 2 player board games’ that will level up your game nights! We’ve scoured the depths of Reddit threads to find the perfect balance of strategy, fun, and replayability. Our focus while picking these gems was to ensure they cater to both seasoned board game fans and newbies. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or a deep strategic duel that will have you plotting your next move days in advance, we’ve got something for you. Get ready to shuffle, deal, and outsmart your opponent with these fantastic options!
On this list:
9 Lost Cities
We love Lost Cities because it’s like going on an Indiana Jones adventure without leaving your living room. This card game is perfect for a couple or two friends looking to challenge each other while exploring ancient ruins. The first time we played, we were gobsmacked at how strategic it got as every card played feels like a crucial decision. It’s like a game of chicken, testing who will go for broke in their explorations and who will play it safe. That tension keeps us coming back for more. The simple rules make it easy to learn, but the depth keeps it fresh during every play.
8 Jaipur
Jaipur is a delightful game about trading in a vibrant market. We picked this up after seeing it recommended on various ‘reddit best 2 player board games’ lists and were not disappointed. The game has charming artwork and offers a great blend of strategy and luck. Getting the right balance between trading and collecting goods is surprisingly tricky. Every game felt like a tug of war with our friend as we tried to outsmart and out-trade each other. We’ve had some pretty hilarious moments of trying to psych each other out in this game.
7 Patchwork
If you ever wanted to make a quilt with a puzzle twist, Patchwork is your game. We found it recommended under ‘reddit best 2 player board games’ and had to try it. It’s got this lovely, calm vibe but don’t be fooled; it’s got a strategic punch. We got quite competitive over who could make the prettiest or most complete quilt. The challenge of fitting the pieces together like a fabric Tetris made every move matter, and it was hard to play just once. Plus, the satisfaction of seeing your quilt complete is just chef’s kiss.
6 Fox in the Forest
Fox in the Forest is a beautifully illustrated trick-taking game that exceeded our expectations. It came highly praised in various ‘reddit best 2 player board games’ threads. Trick-taking games are usually for three or more, so having one that shines with two players was a surprise. The fairy-tale art captured our imagination and reminded us of storybooks from childhood. We both found ourselves getting caught up in the strategy of it, balancing how many tricks to take without being greedy. It’s easy to pick up if you’ve ever played a trick-taking game before.
5 7 Wonders Duel
7 Wonders Duel took everything we loved about the original and condensed it into an intense two-player experience. After seeing it in ‘reddit best 2 player board games’ discussions, we had to try it. Drafting cards and building your civilization feels satisfying, and the game plays out like a tug of war where one misstep could cost you the game. We were on the edge of our seats trying to balance military might and scientific achievement. The range of strategies available makes every game different and keeps us coming back for more.
4 Star Realms
As fans of space battles and card games, Star Realms hit the spot for us. We discovered it thanks to the ‘reddit best 2 player board games’ lists. It felt like being captains of our own starships, deck-building and battling our way through the galaxy. We loved how the game scales with expansions, keeping it fresh and challenging. Plus, playing a quick round at the start of the evening to get us in the gaming groove became a tradition. The sci-fi theme was a winner in our group.
3 Onitama
Onitama is like chess with a twist, and it’s fantastic. We heard about it while scrolling ‘reddit best 2 player board games’ and gave it a shot. The game’s simplicity makes it inviting, yet the changing card movements keep us on our toes. It’s all about anticipating your opponent’s next move while planning your own strategy. Each game has a different feel due to the unique card combinations. Our minds often felt like they were playing chess, yet with a refreshing twist that kept it interesting.
2 Santorini
Santorini is a simple abstract game that looks stunning and plays fantastically. After reading about it on a ‘reddit best 2 player board games’ thread, we had our first game and were hooked. You’ll feel like you’re building right on the Greek island with its beautifully designed pieces. The game’s simple rules make it approachable to new players, yet there’s depth as you plan your moves, trying to outmaneuver your opponent. We’ve been caught in many tense standoffs while attempting to reach the top tier. Every game is an intense battle of wits.
1 Twilight Struggle
Twilight Struggle is the titan of two-player board games, often hailed as the king in many ‘reddit best 2 player board games’ debates. We chose this as the best because of its masterful blend of history and strategy. The Cold War theme immerses us completely, making every decision feel significant. Our games always end up as a tale of tense diplomacy, espionage, and intrigue that spans decades. It’s complex but rewarding, and we never tire of the depth it offers. With each play, we discover new strategies and subtleties, making it a game we will always return to.
