Best Two-Player Board Games 2024: Top 6 Reviewed

Two-player board games are perfect for game nights. Our top picks include Patchwork, Lost Cities, Jaipur, and more.
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Patchwork coverLost Cities coverJaipur cover

Find the Perfect Two-Player Board Game for You and a Friend

Looking for the best two-player board games? We’ve got you covered! We focus on games that are easy to learn, offer deep strategy, and keep things fun and engaging. Whether you’re new to board games or a seasoned player, the right game can make your night. We tested each game with friends, laughed (and maybe cried) through victories and defeats, and narrowed it down to our six favorites. Get ready to find your next favorite game!

On this list:

6 Patchwork

Patchwork cover

  • Age Range: 8+
  • Players: 2
  • Play Time: 30 minutes

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Patchwork has won our hearts. It’s a quilt-making game that turns out to be much more strategic than you might think. We love the mix of luck and planning. Each game feels different and the simple rules make it easy for new players. Plus, we can’t resist the cute fabric pieces!

5 Lost Cities

Lost Cities cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 2
  • Play Time: 30 minutes

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Lost Cities is an adventure packed in a small box. It’s intense and requires you to think a few steps ahead. The game uses cards and strategy to take you on different expeditions. We love the balance of risk and reward, making each game exciting.

4 Jaipur

Jaipur cover

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Players: 2
  • Play Time: 30 minutes

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Jaipur is a quick, fun trading game. It’s perfect for when you want something light yet strategic. You’re trying to outsmart your opponent by trading goods and camels. The game components are beautiful, and each match is a thrilling race to riches.

3 7 Wonders Duel

7 Wonders Duel cover

  • Age Range: 10+
  • Players: 2
  • Play Time: 30 minutes

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7 Wonders Duel is based on the popular 7 Wonders game, but it’s tailor-made for two players. We love how it captures the epic feel of building a civilization. The game has so many strategies and ways to win, keeping us on our toes every time.

2 Codenames: Duet

Codenames: Duet cover

  • Age Range: 11+
  • Players: 2
  • Play Time: 15-30 minutes

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Codenames: Duet is a cooperative game that tests how well you communicate. It’s challenging and fun, making it great for date night or a friendly competition. The game is easy to learn but hard to master, keeping us coming back for more.

1 Hive

Hive cover

  • Age Range: 9+
  • Players: 2
  • Play Time: 20 minutes

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Hive is the best one for us. It’s a bit like chess but with bugs! The game is deep and requires tactical thinking. Each match is different, and the pieces are durable and portable. Hive is perfect for any two-player board game session, and we always find ourselves going back to it.

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.