Introduction #
I’ve gone through distinct phases in my board gaming journey, much like a lot of folks. As a kid, I dabbled in the classics—Checkers and Monopoly, the kind of games you play because they’re just there. Then came what I like to call “the dark ages,” where board games faded into the background, replaced by countless hours of video games. Fast forward to adulthood, and I stumbled back into the world of board games, starting cautiously with light Euro games, dipping my toes into the waters. Little did I know, that would open the floodgates.
As I dug deeper, I was drawn into longer, more complex games—the kind of experiences where the strategy sinks in slowly, where you look up three hours later and realize you’ve only just finished setting up. But lately, life’s been busier, and finding time to gather friends or family around the table has become its own logistical puzzle. But somewhere along the way, I started to see what makes solo board gaming special. It didn’t bother me so much that I was missing the social interaction of multiplayer games–because let’s be honest, some games are just multiplayer solitaire–and it became more about appreciating the chance to fully explore a game on my own terms. I’ve learned to enjoy the quiet focus, the satisfaction of unraveling a strategy at my own pace, and the unique experience of playing for the pure love of the game.
1. Play What You Want #
Ever had to shelve your favorite game on game night because someone else wanted to play something “light”? I know that feeling. When you play solo, though, you can break out those big, sprawling epics like Gloomhaven or Mage Knight whenever you want. No one’s going to complain about the complexity or that they “aren’t really into that theme.” It’s all you, my friend. There’s nothing holding you back from the games you love, and that, in itself, is magic.
2. Play When You Want #
Organizing a game night can sometimes feel like herding cats in space. Tim’s got a work thing, Sarah forgot she signed up for salsa classes, and Jordan…well, Jordan just doesn’t respond. As I get older, I realize that my friends and I have just gotten busier and busier with…life. It gets harder to find a time that works for everyone. Solo gaming? No problem. You play when you want, where you want, without sending a billion “Can you play now?” texts into the ether.
And the best part? You can leave a game set up for days if you want. Got 10 minutes to spare? Take a turn. Need to pause for a snack or a phone call? No problem. It’s like gaming with no commitments, and honestly, that’s priceless. It might not be the most ideal way to play, but for some of us, it may be the only way to play the games we love.
3. Play How You Want #
When you play solo, something magical happens. Without the pressure of speeding up your turn for impatient players, you can really explore the mechanics of a game. Have you ever wanted to spend ten minutes contemplating the perfect move, free from judgment? Solo gaming is for you. It’s like taking a stroll through the strategic garden, smelling each decision flower, and really understanding the roots of the game design. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the mechanics–because you have the time to think, digest, and master. Conversely, do you prefer to blaze through decisions like a caffeine-fueled speed runner? Solo gaming is also for you. Solo gaming lets you dictate the tempo–slow or fast, it’s all up to you.
What about when it comes to theme? Solo gaming allows you to completely lose yourself in the theme. When you’re playing Arkham Horror: The Card Game by yourself, it’s just you and the cosmic horrors–and it’s much easier to immerse yourself in the story without Steve cracking jokes about how the Elder Gods just need a hug.
4. Embrace Your Inner Puzzle Solver #
At its heart, solo gaming is often a strategic puzzle. Whether you’re trying to build the most efficient engine, solve a tactical grid, or simply outthink an AI opponent, the experience is a high-level brain workout. It’s the same rush as solving a crossword or Sudoku but with more cardboard, miniatures, and thematic immersion. Games like Spirit Island or Marvel Champions: The Card Game offer you a cerebral challenge that scratches that “I need to feel smart today” itch.
5. Zero Pressure to Perform Socially #
There’s a real freedom in playing alone. You don’t have to make small talk, try to entertain, or pretend you’re not stressing over a suboptimal move. Multiplayer games come with social expectations, and even when we’re having fun, there’s a certain amount of energy spent making sure everyone else is, too. Solo board gaming strips away that layer. You can just focus on the game, not on making sure you’re being charming or fun. Just you, the game, and the sweet taste of pure strategy.
6. Practice Makes Perfect #
Ever found yourself the weak link at game night, struggling to keep up with seasoned veterans who know the rules inside out? Solo gaming is like a training montage for board games. You can practice at your own pace, mastering the mechanics and strategies so that next time you play with others, you’re no longer the one asking, “Wait, how does this work again?” You’ll walk into the room like a grandmaster, fully equipped to decimate–or at least hold your own.
7. A Tool for Learning a New Game #
Let’s be real: some rulebooks are…dense. And learning a game with friends can quickly turn into a collective guessing game of “Did we do this right?” When you play solo, you can dive into the mechanics at your own pace without worrying about everyone else catching on. By the time you’re ready to teach it, you’ll know the game inside out. It’s like getting a head start on the learning curve without the pressure.
8. No Screen Time #
I know what you’re thinking: “Why not just play a video game?” Sure, video games are easier in terms of setup, but they don’t have the same tactile satisfaction that comes with handling physical components, rolling dice, or sliding tokens. There’s something about a good board game spread out in front of you that video games just don’t replicate. Plus if you’re like me and work in front of a computer all day, you may be reconsidering spending more time in front of a screen. It’s you, the board, and some good old analog fun. Your eyes will thank you.
9. Surprisingly Therapeutic #
Solo gaming has a meditative quality. Without other players to interact with, it’s just you and the decisions you make. Whether you’re building a peaceful monastery in Agricola or defending the world from a villain in Marvel United, there’s something deeply calming about it—until things inevitably spiral into chaos. But hey, even that’s kind of cathartic.
10. Experiences Only Solo Games Provide #
If you’ve never tried solo board gaming, you are surely missing out on fantastic games that are only playable solitaire. Games like Under Falling Skies or Friday offer experiences that are tight, tense, and engaging–no multiplayer mode needed.
Also, not every game shines in a group. Some of the best solo games are multiplayer games with an underappreciated solo mode that truly comes alive when you’re on your own. Multiplayer giants like Gloomhaven or Scythe have surprisingly well-crafted solo variants that transform the game into a personal adventure.
Conclusion #
Look, I get it. Board gaming has a strong social element for many people. But if you’ve never tried playing solo, you’re missing out on a deeper layer of what the hobby has to offer. It’s a chance to slow down, savor the mechanics, and experience the design in a way that often gets lost in the chaos of multiplayer sessions.
Whether you’re at a stage in life where getting your gaming group together has become Euro game in itself, have a game in mind that just doesn’t seem to make it to the table, or just want to experience that perfect “Aha!” moment when a strategy clicks, solo gaming has you covered. Trust me–you’ll never look at your board game shelf the same way again.
So, go ahead. Set the table, grab your favorite game, and embrace the satisfying solitude of solo board gaming.