Best Solo Board Games of 2024: Top 5 Picks
Stuck at home and craving some solo board game action? We’ve tried a bunch. Some games are better than others for those quiet nights alone. In our list, we focus on replayability, ease of learning, and how well the game captures the thrill of solo play. Whether you’re a hardened gamer or a newbie, these solo games promise hours of fun. Get ready to dive into a world where you’re the hero, strategy master, and ultimate decision-maker—all by yourself!
On this list:
5 Friday
We all know what it’s like to be stuck on a desert island… right? Okay, maybe not. But with Friday, you get a taste of that while playing solo. It’s a deck-building game where you help Robinson Crusoe survive all the perils of the island. The game itself is compact and travel-friendly. It’s challenging but rewarding, and you really feel a sense of progression as Robinson gets better and better at surviving. We’ve spent countless hours at home trying to beat this one.
4 Wingspan
Wingspan is perfect for bird lovers and solo players alike. In this game, you’re a bird enthusiast aiming to attract the best birds to your wildlife preserve. The solo mode is well thought out, mimicking a real opponent. It’s a beautiful game with gorgeous artwork and high-quality components. We love how relaxing and zen it feels to play, even when you’re strategizing to outdo the automated player.
3 Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is a beast of a game. If you crave deep, strategic gameplay and a rich storyline, this one’s for you. While it’s better known for its multiplayer, it has a fantastic solo mode. You take on multiple characters in this massive campaign, and it’s a blast navigating the dungeons and making choices that affect the story. Be prepared for a long haul; it’s not a game you’ll finish in one sitting.
2 Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars is all about, well, terraforming Mars. You’re competing against other corporations (or in solo mode, the game itself) to make Mars habitable. The mechanics are solid and the theme is immersive. We love how even in solo, there’s a good sense of competition and achievement. Plus, who doesn’t like the idea of reshaping a planet?
1 Spirit Island
Spirit Island is our top pick for the best solo board game, and for good reason. You’re a powerful spirit defending your island from invaders. It’s complex, strategic, and incredibly satisfying. The solo mode is brilliantly designed to offer a challenging experience that’s different every time you play. We’ve spent many nights trying out different spirits and strategies. The game’s depth and replayability are unmatched.
