Best Solo Games of 2024: Top 8 Must-Try Picks

Looking for solo games? Check our top picks: Friday, Mage Knight, Hostage Negotiator, Onirim, Spirit Island, and Wingspan.
Disclaimer: Clicking our links may result in us earning enough for a new pair of dice, but not enough to quit our day jobs as amateur board game hustlers.
Friday coverAgricola: All Creatures Big and Small coverMage Knight cover

Finding the best board game for solo play can be like locating a needle in a haystack. Fear not, fellow lone wolf gamer! We scoured the board game landscape to bring you the ultimate list of solo games. We focus on replayability, depth, and the sheer joy of playing alone. We’ve got a mix of strategy, adventure, and even some puzzle-solving. Whether you’re an experienced gamer or just starting to explore solo games, these picks will keep you entertained for hours. Ready to roll the dice on a new adventure? Let’s get started!

On this list:

8 Friday

Friday cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 1
  • Play Time: 25 minutes

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Friday is a solo deck-building game that has you guiding Robinson Crusoe through the perils of a deserted island. We picked this game because it perfectly balances challenge and fun. The theme is captivating, and the gameplay keeps you on your toes. If you enjoy strategic thinking and problem-solving, Friday delivers a rewarding experience.

7 Agricola: All Creatures Big and Small

Agricola: All Creatures Big and Small cover

  • Age Range: 13+
  • Players: 1-2
  • Play Time: 30 minutes

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Agricola: All Creatures Big and Small condenses the farming experience into a quick, solo-friendly format. It’s a great choice if you love managing resources and building your perfect farm. This game fits a lot of depth into a small package, making it a delightful and engaging solo game.

6 Mage Knight

Mage Knight cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1-4
  • Play Time: 150 minutes

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Mage Knight allows you to step into the shoes of a powerful mage, exploring and conquering a rich fantasy world. Though complex, it’s immensely satisfying for solo players who relish deep strategy. This game is great for those who love epic adventures and intricate gameplay mechanics.

5 Hostage Negotiator

Hostage Negotiator cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1
  • Play Time: 20 minutes

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Hostage Negotiator puts you in the tense role of a negotiator trying to save lives. We love this game for its intense decision-making moments and engaging narrative. It’s an excellent choice for solo players who enjoy thematic games with high stakes.

4 Onirim

Onirim cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 1-2
  • Play Time: 15 minutes

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Onirim is a fantastic solo card game where you navigate a mysterious dream world. The game is easy to learn but challenging to master, making it perfect for solo gamers seeking a quick yet deep experience. We appreciate its beautiful artwork and captivating theme.

3 Spirit Island

Spirit Island cover

  • Age Range: 13+
  • Players: 1-4
  • Play Time: 90-120 minutes

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Spirit Island flips the script by making you a spirit protecting your island from invaders. Its strategic depth and cooperative play make it ideal for those who love complex, thematic board games. Solo mode shines with unique challenges and rewarding gameplay.

2 Wingspan

Wingspan cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 1-5
  • Play Time: 40-70 minutes

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Wingspan is a beautiful and relaxing game about attracting birds to your wildlife preserve. We included it because its solo mode is incredibly well-designed. It offers a calming yet strategic experience, perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy engine-building games.

1 Gloomhaven

Gloomhaven cover

  • Age Range: 14+
  • Players: 1-4
  • Play Time: 60-120 minutes

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Gloomhaven is the ultimate solo game. It offers a rich, immersive world with endless replayability. The game combines strategic combat and a deep narrative to create an unforgettable solo experience. We chose it as the best because no other game offers such a detailed and enthralling solo journey.

Jamie in his proper element: With all of his board games
Jamie Hopkins

With years of dice-rolling, card-flipping, and strategic planning under my belt, I've transformed my passion into expertise. I thrive on dissecting the mechanics and social dynamics of board games, sharing insights from countless game nights with friends. I dive deep into gameplay mechanics, while emphasizing the social joys of gaming. While I appreciate themes and visuals, it's the strategy and camaraderie that truly capture my heart.