Top 10 Solo Board Games to Start Your Collection

In this video, I talk about over 30 solo board games to start with your collection, while highlighting 10 specific games that top the list. BGG links for all the games below.
Disclaimer: I bought all games except for one, Siege of Valeria, which was a review copy.
51st State
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1...
Aeon's End War Eternal
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2...
Arkham Horror The Card Game
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Astro Knights
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Bloodborne the Board Game
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2...
Bullet
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Cascadia
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2...
DustRunner
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Elder Sign
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1...
Empires of the North
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2...
Gate
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Glass Road
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1...
Gloom of Kilforth
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/9...
Gloomhaven Jaws of the Lion
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2...
Guild of Merchant Explorers
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Horizons of Spirit Island
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
It's a Wonderful World
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2...
Marvel United
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2...
Marvel Zombies Heroes Resistance
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Nusfjord
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2...
Planet Unknown
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2...
Roll Player
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1...
Rolling Realms
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Rolling Realms Redux
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Siege of Valeria
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
SpaceShipped
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2...
Spirit Island
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1...
Terraforming Mars
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1...
The Pursuit of Happiness
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1...
Tin Helm
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Warfighter Modern
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1...
Welcome to the Moon
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Wild Tiled West
boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3...
Let me know which solo board games you think are best to start a collection. Please like and subscribe to this channel. Thank you for watching Tabletop For One!
If you'd like to support this channel, please check out my Patreon page here:
/ tabletopforone
Music by Paul Shapera
00:00 Introduction
00:12 Overview
01:46 Honorable Mention
02:38 #10 Dice-Based Games
03:40 Roll Player
05:10 #9 Lunch Break Games
06:08 DustRunner
07:17 #8 Roll & Write Games
08:08 Super Mega Lucky Box
09:18 #7 Dungeon Crawler Games
10:53 Gloomhaven Jaws of the Lion
12:47 #6 Adventure Card Games
13:54 Warfighter Modern
16:48 #5 Resource Management Games
18:38 The Pursuit of Happiness
19:59 #4 Tile Laying Games
21:09 Cascadia
22:00 #3 Boss Battler Games
22:54 Aeon's End War Eternal
24:27 #2 Engine Building Games
26:39 It's a Wonderful World
27:45 #1 Crisis Management Games
28:16 Horizons of Spirit Island
31:17 Final Thoughts and Outro
#boardgames #solo #letsplay #sologameplay #tabletopgaming #boardgaming #playingsolo #sologaming #top #review #multiplayer #tutorial #howtoplay #unboxing

[@tabletopforone]

Hey everyone, I just noticed that a friend of mine, Lola from Inspired 2 Game, did a similar list video. So, please check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioPPdZufaNqhjrs And if you would, please give her a like and subscribe her channel. I appreciate any support you can give her.

[@inspired2game]

Thanks for the shoutout friend! 😊 Great video!

[@darth-ludic-rous]

You're killing it, my dude. You and Sir Thecos (highly recommend) are my favorite game KZbinrs. Great content from great people. ❤

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I'm humbled by your kind words. I'm so glad you enjoy the channel. I'll check out the other one you mentioned.

[@brad_wilson]

Appreciate the focus on cost and categorization! Thanks!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the list. 🙂

[@VerenaFuchs]

Great topic! I love the recommendations for budget-friendly, small version, and lunch break games.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you enjoyed the list.

[@finneogan]

That was a great video, so much to love about it: Your natural mix of enthusiasm and nuance, leaving the well-trodden path for hidden gems, highlighting some showcases with visuals and a glimpse of gameplay, casually tipping cthulhu over and over again (not afraid of the elder ones, are you?) but most of all: The structure of the list. I love your categories, and think they should become canon. Starting off with an obvious choice, and bringing a less-well known, the community favourite or finally your own heart's cherished treasure. I also love that you deal with the price point, and how you do it. Subscribed, liked, look forward to more of your content.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much for all you kind words and feedback and for subscribing to the channel. It is so encouraging that you enjoyed this video so much. I hope you continue to enjoy the content, and I'm glad you are here.

[@daleking6972]

Thanks so much for making this video. So glad you included more than just 10 games! I would like to suggest another category some might want to consider for solo game play and that is the many escape room games out there like Exit. I love these a lot when playing a solo game.

[@tabletopforone]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it. That's a great suggestion. I think the only reason why I didn't have that category is because -I haven't played any yet-. 😆 I know...I should remedy this especially since I have two Exit games in shrink. Maybe someday soon. Thanks for watching!

[@lordmittens3659]

One of the best channels on KZbin! 🥰 Love all of your videos!! Thank you so much!

[@tabletopforone]

Wow, that is such a compliment I hope I live up to. I'm humbled, and thank you. I'm so glad you enjoy the channel.

[@weswhamilton]

Confident, concise, well paced content. Great job

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much!

[@steg0]

very helpful list! also having the categories of games is something I didn't know that I needed to know. Great video and Thank You!

[@tabletopforone]

You're welcome! Thank you for your kind words.

[@markengle3999]

Great video. I love that you included games that you yourself don’t enjoy but think others wil (e.g., Aeon’s End). Many of these titles I’d not heard of. I also appreciate that you focused on more affordable and approachable titles as many board game reviewers often ignore cost.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you enjoyed the video and the focus on affordability. I made that the focus as a last minute change when I was brainstorming the video, and it seems to have resonated with so many of you. Thank you for watching!

[@djseitz425]

You’re guide of spirit island made my entry into that game so much less daunting. It’s such a fun game man! You’re killing it.

[@tabletopforone]

That's the best thing I could hear. I'm so glad it helped you with the game, and that you enjoy it! That made my day, thank you.

[@donreed3532]

Great video! I knew I was in the right place when you professed your love for Warfighter and Roll Player. I love Warfighter because of the story it tells while you play. I will definitely be checking out some of the other recommended titles. Keep up the great work!

[@shawngilbert4237]

Stumbled upon this video and your channel, and just wanted ot say that this was great! I thoroughly enjoyed your video and the approach you took. From the various catagories, to the way you approached your recommendations... it was great! Keep up the good work

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much, Shawn. I'm glad you are here and enjoyed the video. I hope you continue to enjoy this great hobby we share.

[@86Disab]

Man. Loved the format of this video! Fantastic recommendations. Going to need to grab some of these. Got my sub!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the video, and am glad you are here. 🙂

[@PlayGamzWithMe]

Great video as usual bro!! Well done on every level.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much, Mark 🙂

[@dimasresende]

Hi, i'm from Brazil and we don't have all the games that you mention here to buy. I use to play boardgames solo too, and recently i'm playing Under The Falling Skies, Arkham Horror 3ed, Everdell, Wingspan, Verdant, Roll Player, Keep the Heroes Out, This War of Mine and Robinson Crusoe. Congratulations for your channel and a shout from Brazil

[@tabletopforone]

I'm so glad you found my channel! That is such a great list of games. Thank you for watching and for being here 🙂

[@apollonia6656]

Gosh,how could I forget This War of Mine ! It got me emotional first time I played it but it has to be my number 1 with Robinson Crusoe:Cursed Island at number 2. Apologize for butting in.

[@tabletopforone]

I still haven't played/owned This War of Mine. But I do have Halls of Hegra which may be similar. I need to play it soon.

[@donaldhouf8377]

This is a solid list!

[@tabletopforone]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching.

[@bankingonmoney8224]

We just received Pursuit of Happiness. We will be playing this one two player. It's a wonderful world is a fantastic game. I'm currently playing 51st states Ultimate Edition. This version was so much cheaper in comparison to Masters plus the new solo mode. I am enjoying it but does not beat out IAWW. Horizons spirit Island didn't hit the mark for us. Don't know just didn't enjoy that much. I would definitely recommend this version to see if you like. I haven't tried Warfighter as I heard from multiple people the rules are bad, watch the playthrough. So I avoided this series. Great list. Have a great day!

[@mikeckma]

Great suggestions. Many thanks.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! I'm glad you found the list helpful.

[@neunadi5147]

That's a list and half:) ill certainly be checking out a few of your recommendations

[@tabletopforone]

Haha, yeah, it was a long one. Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

[@ChrisSolarski]

Great list!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you!

[@bookaddict777]

Great list! I love both Role Player and Pursuit of Happiness.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! Glad you enjoy those games 🙂

[@psyience3213]

I love all the suggestions, I’ve heard of almost none of those games except war fighter. I’m just getting into solo gaming and have bought a few. The two id recommend as a beginner myself is 1: one deck dungeon. Great dice rolling game, very fun and casual, you get build a character that levels up across multiple play throughs. A lot of expansions and tons of replayability. Fairly quick game, especially to setup and put away which I’m finding to be a big factor. And then my next favorite I just got a couple days ago is Hornet Leader. I’ve always loved aviation so that was right up my alley. Not a cheap game at about $110 but worth it imo. There are hundreds of cards, tons of different airplanes and pilots each with their capabilities and limitations. A large array of munitions to choose from. Half the fun is choosing the pilots/aircraft’s and their load outs. Another game I got which is not too bad though I haven’t played it too much so I can’t give a great opinion is Sky Horde Tear. Seems fun, and challenging, with a lot of expansions. Deck building opportunity. Different enemies, different allies/play styles. I’m leaning more to the positive side on that game though, I think after a few more play throughs it’ll be more fun. Mini Rogue. I’m not sure how I feel about this one. Some weird things like 5 boss slots but 4 boss cards. An apparent ghost card that it tells you to fight as part of the core but only comes in an expansion. Seems overly simplistic if nothing else. Mage knight I bought thinking it was solitaire game after about $80 and 4 hours of learning I realized there’s 1 lousy single player mission that it says is simply for learning the game. That sucked. Takes a long ass time to set up and put away too. And it’s huge. The type of game I left on the floor for a few days as I played the same single mission a few times. Fun game but not a solitaire.

[@hopefultraveler3543]

I like that you are up-front about the costs of games, thanks!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@manuelandre3561]

Very good content , your thoughs come fast and easy without cuts,you make good points and we can se you are passionate about it. Nice to see such quality !

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! Although, I'm afraid there is a lot of cutting/editing. I struggle speaking in front of people and the camera. So, I often have to say what I want to say multiple times until I don't stumble over my words. I'm glad you like the content!

[@manuelandre3561]

Yeah i did not notice , anyway is subtle enough i did not notice and props to you to force you into doing things you are not confortable doing. Only good can come out of it !

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you 🙂

[@beakerkell]

First time viewer and wow... Such a high quality list with excellent talking points. Thanks for the recommendations. I may have to go find a copy of Warfighter now!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I'm so glad you found the channel and found enjoyment in the video. Warfighter is definitely near and dear to me, and I can't recommend it enough.

[@dmoodz]

First video for me too! Officially subscribed. Also using these recommendations to try and get my brother into the solo portion of the hobby

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much!

[@joellen5984]

There were a few here I had not heard of - and what a great variety of games and list! Really enjoy all the video's and tutorials. For those that love puzzle games I recommend Dragon Castle. Tile laying Dorf Romantik. Both of these are one's I enjoy a ton. I enjoy Skulls of Sedlec and Food Chain Island from Button Shy a great deal - and those are so easy to travel with too!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you for watching. I have seen some posts recently about Dragon Castle, and now I want it so much....same with Dorfromantik. Thank you for the Button Shy recommendations. I'll have to pick those up too.

[@AcceberSk]

Are you me? Played a couple solo rounds of both Dragon Castle and Dorf Romantik today. Food Chain Island was yesterday 😉

[@dominikd.1507]

Amazing video, thank you!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you!

[@SoloBoardGamingKnight]

Very entertaining video! Roll Player Adventures is a phenomenal game that I believe you may enjoy. You included some very heavy hitters in your list! Aeons End, Bullet Heart/Star/Orange, JotL as well as a few that have flown under my radar like It’s a Wonderful World and I still haven’t played Spirit Island. Great video!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! Spirit Island is one of those games where it is as heavy a game as you make it. The Horizons version definitely makes it a medium or less complex game, and I highly recommend starting there. Thanks for watching, and I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@citruunaw7862]

Earned a sub and like from me. Really good and different view on making lists. Really like this format!

[@areallystupidguy630]

You're the only person I've ever seen talk about Warfighter but it looks really cool, thanks man

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. If you'd like to see Warfighter in action, I have a tutorial solo playthrough of the North Africa (WWII) edition.

[@mojojojo123]

Amazing list!!!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! 🙂

[@Board_Halfling]

Just ordered Dust Runner! Looking forward to it

[@tabletopforone]

Awesome! I hope you enjoy it. It might be my favorite mint tin game from Jason Glover.

[@j.v.1093]

Awesome video, as always. Your hair is awesome! AND it grows back!

[@tabletopforone]

Haha, it does. I'm like a chia pet.

[@tyrroo]

Amazing video, thank you so much! I especially love that you talk about price and recommend a lot of inexpensive games. And you listed several games that I've never heard of before, so that's very helpful, too.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you very much! I'm so glad you found the video helpful.

[@Randi-Rabbit]

Very interesting, that was a wide variety of games, was quite unexpected but pleasantly surprising, I've noted quite a few of those and will add them to the Wishlist on BGG, I already got the Arkham Horror and Spirit Island sets, you said to mention what games new comers should try, I'm new as of 2 weeks ago but I'm already ravenous for complex, convoluted, mind wrenching heavy weighted games, and the one I've got my eyes locked onto for my next purchase is one that is all those things and renowned for it's difficulty to comprehend and follow, I'm talkin' about Voidfall. I'm gonna be taking the dip next week and can't wait to get stuck in.

[@tabletopforone]

I think Voidfall is a great pick! I'm going to get it eventually also.

[@Filthyanimal9]

Fun video and sone great games. I would add a couple of space-themed games to your list: Under Falling Skies and Warp’s Edge!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! Absolutely Under Falling Skies in the dice category. I haven't played Warp's Edge, but have heard a lot of good things about it. I hope to get it someday. Thanks for watching!

[@homosapsap]

Great video dude! Really enjoyed the content and the way it was presented. You have a new subscriber! I love Roll Player, but did not enjoy the monsters and minions expansion either. Some games you did not mention that I enjoy solo include The Bloody Inn, Cartographers, Paper Tales, Hadrian's Wall and Ganz Schon Clever. Own Nusfjord and Spirit Island but yet to table it. Will try to get to it soon! Cheers

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much. I'm glad you are here and that you enjoy the content. Those games you mentioned are great ones as well, and I did consider some of them for the list. You'll have to let me know what you think of Nusfjord and Spirit Island when you play them. If you have an questions about their rules, let me know anytime. Thanks again.

[@terry3733H]

waiting for Nusfjord big box 😊

[@sydneyo.649]

this is a great list, I like the categories he put in.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@vistathon]

First time viewer and now subscribed. Don't know how I've missed your videos before but this one popped up to watch while having my breakfast. Great stuff and I'm holding you responsible for pushing me over the edge to buy Wild Tiled West (not that I needed much persuasion 🤣)

[@tabletopforone]

I'm so glad you found the channel and enjoyed the video. I accept the responsibility 😆. Let me know what you think of Wild Tiled West.

[@terry3733H]

just found this channel 😅 game group is on/off so rent / buy play solo lately

[@204017754]

Thanks for all the recommendations! I have been looking at Spirit Island and Terraforming Mars for some time but have not pulled the trigger due to price. Maybe Horizons is a good option for me. Appreciate the vulnerability talking about Warfighter and your mental health. That topic touches just about everyone.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm glad you found this list helpful. If you end up getting Horizons of Spirit Island, I have a tutorial solo playthrough video to help get you started.

[@yodennis2000]

HILARIOUS! I had already seen you with a shaved head so the first thing I did think when I played this today was, "HEYYY THIS IS AN OLD VIDEO"

[@tabletopforone]

🤣🤣 that's too funny!

[@88callisto22]

First time viewer. I have been playing multi player for less than 3 years and have amasses over a 100 games😊. I realized lately the only way I am going to get to play them all is to start playing solo. I avoided solo play as I did not think I would really enjoy it. To my surprise I love it. liked and subscribed to your channel. I actually own some of the games you mentioned and have added at least a half dozen to research more. Can’t wait to watch some of your play throughs.

[@boboy1000]

I agree about Gloomhaven, I want that experience with a group of people, the game is so good.

[@Neilios1000]

Good work recommending games you personally don't like but can appreciate are good games that you just don't click with. I know so many people who think a game is bad just because they personally don't like it.

[@tabletopforone]

Oh yeah, I see that all the time. It's really unfortunate. I prefer to encourage and share in the joy of others in the hobby than to say what they like is bad. Besides, I'm only human and am often wrong in my opinions 😁

[@Akihito007]

Great video and nice Marvel Zombies Galactus. I don't have enough room to put mine together yet lol.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! I had to move mine to a different room. Hopefully, I can find the time to paint him.

[@joshwomack1954]

Liked and subscribed.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I hope you enjoy the channel. 🙂

[@hugsncuddles]

You sir, have an excellent radio voice! Have you considered a podcast?

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! Yes, I may start a podcast soon.

[@ihmpall]

Thanks I have no friends it’s perfect for me

[@tabletopforone]

I'm sorry. I have no local friends eithee (online only). I hope you enjoy whichever games you play. I'm glad you are here.

[@sirtrevis]

Depend on no one, be disappointed by no one.

[@noahhi7556]

i love you vidio thanks for giving links for all games im checking out roll play right now

[@tabletopforone]

I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and found it useful. Thanks for watching!

[@nathansutterfield]

Great video and wonderfully produced. I will have to check some of these out - maybe you missed it. Also, this is the first video I have seen from you. How do you like Dune Imperium, Heat, Parks and Mosaic solo? Some of these are among my favorites- any recommendations from those. Of course, you just gave me 30 haha. I am planning picking up wild tiled west, rolling relams- glad you like them too.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you found the channel. Of the games you mentioned, I've only played Dune Imperium. Dune Imperium is one of my favorite worker placement games. I'm definitely interested in trying the others at some point. I do hope you enjoy Wild Tiled West and Rolling Realms! Thanks for watching.

[@pauls3585]

A great list of games

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you!

[@rhondarettig1610]

Fantastic list! I have at least 2 games (and many 3) in most of these categories. The only categories I lack in are dungeon crawler, adventure card, and crisis management which are none my favorite genres of games. I do have some that fit the category though. :) And thanks for the heads up about Under Quest, I hadn't seen that mentioned yet.

[@tabletopforone]

Thanks, Rhonda! Oh yes, I think he's almost done with UnderQuest and it looks fantastic. Glad you enjoyed the video. 🙂

[@terry3733H]

I play adventure RPG dungeon video games AI runs the setup… solo board games I end up with extra unused components 😢 Keep the Heroes Out is a dungeon crawler parody: you play the monsters keeping heroes from taking treasures in the dungeon 🤣

[@doflamingo141]

Hey, this is the first video i saw of your channel. I Like your video and your spirit, keep it up 👍✨

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you found and enjoyed the video. I hope you continue to enjoy the channel and this hobby we share.

[@doflamingo141]

​@@tabletopforoneyou have talked about you Loving bloodbourne. Ive Heard its Not that good, have you played the actual Game? Or have you maybe played dark Souls the Board Game and recommend that? I loved dark Souls I-III, never actually played bloodbourne. Do you Plan on making a bloodbourne review or maybe dark Souls the Board Game review? Sorry my english is Not the best, greetings from Germany my friend :)

[@tabletopforone]

Yeah, I have not played Bloodborne the video game at all. I wonder if that's why I love it more than others. It's super challenging, but I love the card play. I haven't played Dark Souls the board game, but have played the original video game. I do plan on making a tutorial solo playthrough video of Bloodborne soon, maybe next month. I hope this finds you well.

[@doflamingo141]

@@tabletopforone interesting, yeah im definitely looking forward to it

[@waynev.8200]

Glad to see Spaceshipped getting some love. One of my favorite Button Shy games.

[@tabletopforone]

Yeah, for some reason it gets overshadowed by the other games, but it is such a solid solo game. Thanks for watching!

[@jonathanantscherl]

Hey Daniel, big fan of spaceshipped too… not sure if you are aware but there is a “spiritual sequel” on the way called Fantasyform - “a powerful Alchemist has set out to become one with the elements, seeking to dominate others by becoming an Elemental Lord. Can you harness enough power in your journey across the Outlands to defeat the villain before all hope is lost?” Could be of interest!!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! I don't think I've heard that mentioned before. I'm definitely looking forward to it. Thank you for the recommendation and for watching!

[@jonathanantscherl]

No worries (!) Also just forgot to shout-out how not only informative this list is but how clear and thoughtful your content is and how much your passion and knowledge comes through. Lovely to see. Have a great week, J

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I hope you have a great week as well. 🙂

[@corey3145]

Awesome vid! Was planning on getting Under Falling Skies as a dice driven game, but your take on Roll Player has got me thinking. Your thoughts? I lean more towards the Sci fi theme, but would you say Roll Player is that much better to get that 1st? Was glad to see Horizons of SI listed on your list as I recently got that And your play through video was super helpful and appreciated! Currently looking for videos on basic strategy on how to play defensive versus offensive players (I'm a slow learner on my own🤣), so play thrus like yours are very helpful.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much for your kind words! Under Falling Skies was definitely one I had considered for the list (but the list just became so long). If you like the sci fi theme, you really can't go wrong with UFS. There is a ton of content in the box and it's inexpensive as well. There isn't as much dice manipulation, but plenty of rolling and placement. I'm glad my Spirit Island playthrough helped you. Thank you, as this is so encouraging. Thanks for watching!

[@corey3145]

@tabletopforone No Man, I appreciate you hooking me up with the info and take on the games. I'm very particular on games I buy so channels like yours makes me confident in what I spend my money on. I used to think golf was an expensive hobby, but board gaming is right up there with it🤣

[@tabletopforone]

Haha, no doubt. I hope I never have to confess on how much I've spent in the hobby. A couple tips on remaining budget friendly. Sign up for email notifications from online board game retailers and publishers. Often, great solo games go on clearance or liquidation. Those notifications will keep you in the loop. Also, check out Noble Knight (if you are in the states). You can pick up a lot of used games for half price or less. Noble knight is really good about standing behind their used games, and their customer service is top notch if something is wrong with your order (only ever happened once). I hope those tips help you enjoy the hobby in a more budget friendly way. 🙂

[@corey3145]

@tabletopforone Thanks Boss!

[@bankingonmoney8224]

We just received Pursuit of Happiness. We will be playing this one two player. It's a wonderful world is a fantastic game. I'm currently playing 51st states Ultimate Edition. This version was so much cheaper in comparison to Masters plus the new solo mode. I am enjoying it but does not beat out IAWW. Horizons spirit Island didn't hit the mark for us. Don't know just didn't enjoy that much. I would definitely recommend this version to see if you like. I haven't tried Warfighter as I heard from multiple people the rules are bad, watch the playthrough. So I avoided this series. Great list. Thanks as always. Have a great day!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I do hope you enjoy The Pursuit of Happiness. Spirit Island will be a miss with some, but I do hope that means you know better about what you will enjoy instead 🙂 Have a great week!

[@ChadHensley]

Great list but I'm still struggling to get Spirit Island to work for me. Had a really bad first play and been trying to convince myself to dive back in. Definitely a few games I was unfamiliar with or had limited knowledge of that I might need to look at a bit deeper when finances clear up. Thanks again for all your great content!

[@tabletopforone]

Thanks, Chad. Is there any way I can help you with Spirit Island? What particularly was bad about the first play?

[@ChadHensley]

@@tabletopforone I honestly do not remember. It was around the beginning of the year. I had watched several videos and read through the rules but when I tried to play I couldn't get the types of cards I needed to accomplish what I had been seeing online. It may have been my choice of spirits, though I chose two very easy ones I remember. When I first ran into difficulties I did post on a couple of groups but everyone spent time telling me how great the game was and not offering any real solutions so I just gave up trying again.

[@tabletopforone]

Well, if you try again and need any help, I am happy to help as much as possible. As for the cards, did you use the Power progression cards for the spirits? It's a way to always get cards that are useful to each spirit. Anything I can do to help, let me know. I'm not opposed to even talking you through the game over the phone.

[@markus4479]

Thx for this video - and especially for the recommondation of warfighter - sounds interesting :-) is there any other games similar felling in play ? Will check this out :-) THX again and happy gaming :-)

[@tabletopforone]

Gloom of Kilforth definitely gives a similar feeling in play. Marvel Champions as well, but not as a thematic experience. Thanks for watching!

[@markus4479]

@@tabletopforone thank you so much :-)

[@terry3733H]

glass road resource wheel is fun too! pre-ordered Nusfjord. Taverns of Tiefenthal is fun solo too 🎉

[@tabletopforone]

I hope you enjoy Nusfjord! Indeed Glass Road is great. I haven't played Taverns, but interested in it.

[@GregHu77]

I don't own many games, i play only solο, my favourite games are Arkham horror LCG and Spirit Island. I think i can live with those two.

[@tabletopforone]

Fantastic choices. Both are in my top 20 🙂. Thanks for watching!

[@jamesman9208]

Great video

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you!

[@Giannis_Krimitzas]

Thank you Daniel

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! 🙂

[@aorakis5795]

Hi there, some nice little ones there! If I had one list it would go as follow, with no specific order : -Astro knights (or aeon's end) -Bullet -Sprawpolis -Warp's edge (or under falling skies) -Spirit island -Raiders of schytia -The isle of cats explore&draw (or welcome to the moon) -Set a watch -Street masters (or Gears of war) (both are unfortunately very hard to find) so... Cthulhu Death may die might be the best (and only avaible) pick here :) And finally, the most expansive one : Any one if the solo/cooperative LCG (LOTR, Marvel or Arkham horror) A list with a bit of everything and every style, from worker placement, to flip/write to crawler to bagbuilding etc.. I could also add those really cool confort game such as : Cascadia, merchant of guild explorers, after us, legacy of Yu... Happy playing and Take care Daniel! Cheers from Belgium!

[@tabletopforone]

Wow, great list you have there. Very comprehensive, hitting all the good notes of solo gaming. I love how large solo gaming has become that we can come up with different lists for the same goal, and both lists still be very solid choices. (Maybe you should make your own video on the same topic 😉). I hope you are well!

[@darrenpellichino2923]

Thank you for the list. I have tried to get my D&D friends(mostly family) into playing board games by buying some very interesting ones but so far to not much success. So maybe I will try to do some solo games to scratch the board game itch that I have. I like the roleplaying but really really enjoy a good hobby board game =)

[@tabletopforone]

I would definitely suggest looking into solo RPGs as well such a Four Against Darkness, Fabled Lands (rpg book), and Fox Curio's Floating Bookshop (journaling rpg). Those might give you the sense of D&D you like. Other than that, games like Warfighter (war-themed adventure), Massive Darkness (fantasy dungeon crawler), and Sleeping Gods (open world adventure) might give you some good content. Some of those are expensive, so definitely do your research. Sleeping Gods has a new smaller version that is around $40 I think that can give you an idea of the system. Anyways, thanks for watching!

[@darrenpellichino2923]

@@tabletopforone Thank you for the suggestions. I do have jaws of the lion and we did play it some but it doesn't seem, at least for me, like one I would enjoy solo. Again thanks =) BTW sleeping gods looks so amazing. How can one guy be so talented?

[@donnakeferlis1649]

Just do it!!! Get those clippers out (no attachment, lowest setting) and free yourself. You'll feel super clean and look fresh as hell. Great list! But with Gloomhaven JotL, a used copy would have stickers all over the map. Wouldn't they need to buy the extra map/decal set?

[@tabletopforone]

Haha, I will soon. As for the Jaws of the Lion map, it really doesn't matter. You just have to track which quests you've completed on a piece of paper. I'm not even sure why they did the sticker thing in this version, since it really doesn't matter much at all. I think maybe they did it to introduce the idea of permanently altering game pieces so that it's less of a shock when people graduate to big box Gloomhaven.

[@ronaldbell7429]

My favorite "Lunch Break Game" is Doom Machine. It also fits in a tin. It's a very cool little game where you're trying to inactivate a doomsday machine by dice placement. Every turn the Doom Machine displays a new card, and every turn those cards have actions you're not going to like. You're rolling dice, trying to get rid of those cards before you get overwhelmed. When you defeat a card, you've got 1 more die in your pool so you get better. Hopefully you get better fast enough not to lose. It's quick to play, easy to learn but has enough going for it that it's fun to play again. I carry it in my computer satchel, just in case I have a few minutes

[@tabletopforone]

I'm so glad you enjoy it. I've always been intrigued by that game. I should order it the next time I order from Game Crafter.

[@RaiderVicent]

Great idea to recommend cheap solo board games with different mechanics.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you!

[@terry3733H]

bedtime relaxing: grove 9 card solitaire, food chain island, ohanami. intriguing: black Sonata, maquis 😊

[@tabletopforone]

Haha, great additional categories. I haven't yet played Black Sonata or Maquis

[@lajeit]

What a great name for a KZbin channel ❤

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much 🙂

[@lajeit]

​@@tabletopforonejust discovered your channel through this video, and I can tell you are loving it. Thanx for sharing your love for the hobby. I appreciate this.

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much for watching! I'm glad you're here.

[@cassiepius6267]

Pursuit of life is too triggering for me. But thanks so much for the excellent list! So many suggestions that I look forward to trying.

[@tabletopforone]

I can understand that. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching! 🙂

[@bobsantosjr]

@cassiepius6267 why is pursuit of happiness triggering for you? im on the fence in getting the big box pre-ordered for essen.

[@cassiepius6267]

@bobsantosjr , theme wise, it's too much like real life. I much prefer the fantasy genre when it comes to my games.

[@bobsantosjr]

@@cassiepius6267 i can see that. thanks!

[@thankim]

Fantastic list! I’d add Troyes to the list of dice-driven games. It’s got a great solo mode and I like it way better than Roll player :) Another great entry level solo game is Parks. Beautiful, broadly appealing theme, inexpensive and available

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you so much! I definitely need to pick up Troyes Dice. I almost did yesterday at my FLGS, but not sure why I passed.

[@thankim]

@@tabletopforone I meant the original Troyes. I haven’t played Troyes Dice… maybe as good but not sure…

[@tabletopforone]

Ahh, haha, my mistake. I've heard great things about both. Guess they are going on the wishlist 😁

[@dennisaarts30]

Tip: Under Falling Skies is a very good solo game, as is Agricola (Uwe Rosenberg) and the Lord of the Rings - the card game.

[@tabletopforone]

Great suggestions, thank you!

[@user-iz9qp5hn9d]

thank you for mentioning bloodborne. im my opinion its absolutely great board game that people flame on.

[@tabletopforone]

Yeah, I'm not sure why it wasn't more well received. It's definitely one of Eric Lang's best.

[@simarshall2474]

Great video, but as a Brit my main take away is holy crap you guys get your games cheap! :) I really like the sound of that Warfighter game, cheapest I can get it in the uk today.. $79 usd. At $45 it's a no brainer, at 80 though...

[@tabletopforone]

Yeah, I'm sorry the video was mostly US-based. I hope you can find it cheaper, maybe second hand.

[@nirszi]

There are only two games here that I liked, I guess our tastes differ a lot :) Here's my items in the same categories: Tile Laying: Planet Unknown, it's not even close to the second place. X and Write: If Hadrian's Wall is too complex to start with, I'd say Dinosaur Island Rawr and Write or Demeter. Dice based: I can't argue with Roll Player, it's great but I will add Vengeance Roll and Fight which is fantastic. Dungeon Crawler and Boss Fighter: still looking for one I like, to me they are all boring. Nemesis i guess goes into this category and I like it so I'll go with it. (Two handed). Engine Building: there are many but I'll mention Furnace with the expansion that now has a solo mode. Love this game. Crisis Management/Coop/Events games: also have not found one I like, I tried Spirit Island and I bounced off of it very hard. I'm sure there's one out there I would like.

[@tabletopforone]

Those are all solid choices. I thought about Hadrian's Wall and Dinosaur, but I only omitted them from the list because the other ones are more budget friendly (although Dinosaur isn't to bad). The same goes for Planet Unknown, as it's not close to budget friendly, but it is absolutely a great entry into tile laying. I haven't yet played Furnace, but definitely want to. I think I have reached out to the publisher for a review copy. We'll see if I get that chance. Spirit Island isn't for everyone, and neither is crisis management in general. I'm trying to think of a Crisis management game that would work for you. I have to wonder if perhaps crisis-themed games would be more your style like Clinic Deluxe? Just a thought. Thank you as always for watching. I appreciate your comments here and our interactions on Facebook.

[@nirszi]

@@tabletopforone Thanks for the detailed reply, I do have Clinic, and I need to play it! Somehow I never liked the idea of Events in most games, same for Pandemic. And that's the main driver of many (most?) co-op games. Btw I also don't play with events in Planet Unknown :)

[@tabletopforone]

Yes, events are one of those things in crisis management that really help set the thematic gameplay, but I completely understand not liking them. I absolutely agree with you about the events in Planet Unknown. I personally think they were thrown in there with little to no playtest, and they are far too frustrating and random for a game like that, especially some that can literally cripple you from scoring well (like the one that removes a rover). As for Clinic, I think you might enjoy it. The spacial puzzle is fascinating, the theme is spot on, and the art is really good. Definitely post about it if you play (whether you like it or not).

[@davidt4233]

Nice list. Thanks. I have Warfighter ww2 and Arkham LCG. Eventhough Iike both, I prefer Marvel Champions. Sold Feast 4 Odin as I'm not crazy about beat your own score. I agree on JOTL, did not like it solo. Sold it. My favorite crawler is Warhammer Quest Blackstob=ne Fortress. Expensive but worthit because of the fantastic minis and game play. Best thematic euros solo I feel are Anachrony, Kanban EV, and Scythe

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! You have some great games in your collection. I haven't added A Feast For Odin to my collection yet, because I just don't know I will enjoy it (even though I like beat-your-own-score). I love thematic euros too, such as Clinic Deluxe and Tramways.

[@sebastianruizromo637]

Great Video as always. A new solo game that will fulfill soon is 20 Strong by Chip Theory Games. Have you seen that one? 😅

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! Yes, I am an all-in backer for that one. I am looking forward to it. Great recommendation, as I think it will be a solid solo experience.

[@sebastianruizromo637]

@@tabletopforone definitely! Any other CTG game you like? 😇

[@tabletopforone]

Actually, I haven't yet played a CTG game. So, 20Strong will be my first.

[@conscript900]

Have you considered doing a how to play video for warfighter ww2? I personally been struggling to grip the rules

[@tabletopforone]

Actually, I have already done one for Warfighter WWII North Africa. Most of the rules and mechanics I go over in that one carryover to the other WWII core games. Here's the link if you want to check it out. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJKqh2lto9aHi9E

[@conscript900]

Thanks a ton!@@tabletopforone

[@apollonia6656]

Love Roll Player (not Minions as much). Isle of Cats. All Elder Signs. It's a Wonderful World. Cartographers. Deck of Dungeons (but not Deck of Galaxy). Dungeons,Dice and Danger (R&W) Gosh....lots of others ,but I don't want to bore people 😊

[@apollonia6656]

PS: So sorry,forgot SOS Titanic 2edition......love it,love it,love it 😊

[@tabletopforone]

Haha, you sound like me. 🙂 Elder Sign is my favorite dice game for sure. I'm so glad you enjoy the hobby so much.

[@Kalcemo]

I would like to exho Under Falling Skies. But, one no one mentioned is the 0-2 player game "So you've been eaten". Absolute blast solo. Yes i said 0 player haha.

[@tabletopforone]

I haven't heard enough mentioned about So You've Been Eaten. I'm glad you enjoy it!

[@normstewart546]

I really like Elder Sign

[@tabletopforone]

I'm glad you do! It's such a great game. Thanks for watching!

[@guillermoyaroslavlverduzco1551]

Roll Player: You DO get to use the characters in Roll Player Adventures. You should get that one, it's pretty awesome. Dungeon Crawler: What a crawler would be without dice rolling? I rather stick to Heroes Resistance or Dungeon Lite. Gloomhaven is also so repetitive: Kick the door, kill'em all, loot, repeat. Deck Builder: Aeon's End is expensive and not cool. After the Virus is a better solo and much cheaper. Also Hero Realms with the campaign system. Engine Building: Café is pretty cool and much cheaper. Crisis Management: Flash Point: Fire Rescue. It is much more entry level and so fun to play.

[@kitcarpo4745]

Warp's Edge is a good one. Under Falling Skies as well. I am tabling Frostpunk right now, not a good "starter" though...

[@tabletopforone]

Great choices! I wish I had Frostpunk. It looks like a great thematic experience.

[@kitcarpo4745]

@@tabletopforone It's hard. I haven't won yet. 10 games. But now I am in what the designer guy told me is "the game mode". Got the principles down, not just need to use them. Have a good one.

[@sanderzwaenepoel1145]

i recently bought Warfighter second hand but unpunched but only the big rulebook is holding me back from playing it sooner.

[@tabletopforone]

If there is anything I can do to help, let me know. I have a playthrough of Warfighter WWII North Africa that teaches a lot of Warfighter core concepts. I hope you can play it soon. Thanks for watching!

[@slynavi]

Do I need gloomhaven base game to play jotl?

[@tabletopforone]

No, they are independent from each other. So, JotL makes it very accessible and inexpensive to try the system out.

[@vincentgaliano]

Gloomhaven at 20 $ ? Man, games are cheap where you live... Lucky you !

[@tabletopforone]

Yeah, it goes on sale at Target for that price. I wish prices were better where you live.

[@vincentgaliano]

@@tabletopforone in France, probably because of translation, games (from USA, or Germany for instance) are usually more expensive. Gloomhaven (the Lion one) is around 70 €.😅

[@kjellkanin]

I wonder, does people who play solo tend to naturally gravitate towards it or is it something one learns to love? I have loads of board games but only one person to play them with. Playing solo would allow me to get games out more often, but somehow it doesn't feel very tempting. Just wondering if it is possible to get more used to the idea.

[@tabletopforone]

Everyone has a different story as to why they play solo. Many people found solo gaming during the pandemic, some do it for mental health reasons (like myself), others do it because they love board gaming and want to play unrestricted, and there are many more reasons. I think most people are a combination of those types mentioned. I've seen some people talk about how they thought solo board gaming was "dumb," but later tried it and realized that they enjoyed it. I've seen some spend a lot of time solo gaming due to accessibility or not having a gaming group, but then later find a group and play multiplayer more. As for you, even if you are not tempted, have you ever played Solitaire, the card game with a regular deck of cards? If you have, and have enjoyed it for what it is, there are many games out there that will offer you more. Then again, you already have a collection. So, maybe try one out? If you have any Pencil First Games (Floriferous, The Whatnot Cabinet, Herbaceous), those are easy to try out solo. Also, The Guild of Merchant Explorers is great both solo and multiplayer. But don't feel any pressure from me. I'm happy if you enjoy the hobby whichever way you do. Thanks for watching!

[@kjellkanin]

@@tabletopforone Thank you for your reply! I do have Floriferous as it happens, I might give it a go. I guess I feel like it is the lesser option if other people are available. Yet I admire those who find great enjoyment in solo gaming because I'd love to be one of them!

[@tabletopforone]

Haha, before you know it, you'll be a solo gaming aficionado. As for Floriferous, it's very easy to play solo (not too different from 2p). I don't have a solo playthrough of it yet, but it's on my to-do list. Nevertheless, if you have any questions, let me know and I'll do my best to help.

[@jacobramirez5974]

I completely agree with everything you said about TM. I thought I was the only one that felt that way! BTW - get a haircut, hippie! 😂 For real, it'll feel so good. What are you waiting for?

[@tabletopforone]

Haha, no, you're not the only one. Now there's two of us! 😆 What if I need my hair to lose in a bet? 🤣

[@ultraelectromagneticburniq439]

will anyone recommend Parks?

[@tabletopforone]

I haven't played it myself, but I know many people recommend it.

[@romanthekat]

have you had a chance to check too many bones? :)

[@tabletopforone]

Not yet...maybe one of these days.

[@MrSahdred]

Calling Bloodborne expensive kinda made me laugh. The dungeon crawlers I play most are Kingdom Death: Monster and Shadows of Brimstone. I easily have at least $1000 sunk into each

[@tabletopforone]

Haha, very true. Same with my copy of Tanares Adventures. I only meant it as expensive since my list was geared towards budget friendly options (less than $50)

[@wishmeheaven]

Regarding Aeon's End, I find it somehow not authentic to recommend a game that you're not enjoying from. I appreciate the honesty though...

[@tabletopforone]

I can understand that. My thoughts regarding Aeon's End has everything to do with many of my friends in the solo board game community rating it so highly and the way they talk about it. My enjoyment is purely subjective in this case. Furthermore, I recognize that the design is well done, and that it introduces a lot of key mechanics and experiences that a newer solo gamer might benefit from. The same reasons apply to Gloomhaven. Thank you for your comment and for watching!

[@vladkillgore8266]

Where's this guy buying his boardgames so cheap?

[@aviarun9427]

How did you manage to make such a comprehensive list of 30+games across different mechanics, yet without a single game that's available on board game arena? One of the biggest reasons solo games appeal to me is the flexibility to play it anywhere and not be at the same place and time as other people. So digital availability is perhaps the most important thing for me in this category. It's also the first thing I'd have thought of when I am considering budget as a factor for ranking.

[@tabletopforone]

Oh, I'm sorry. I actually play no digital implementations of any board games. So, I don't know what is available on Board Game Arena or other platforms.

[@aviarun9427]

@@tabletopforone thought as much. It's cool, just was a mild grr moment for me when I searched each of the recommendation on bga and none of them were there. Which also means a lot of these are hidden gems. Future content idea perhaps if you ever try digital versions

[@brendanobrien69]

Ahem. I still think you should shave your head.... 🤗

[@tabletopforone]

Haha, I just did yesterday 🙂

[@brendanobrien69]

@@tabletopforone I'm very much looking forward to seeing that handsome scalp... It's probably way past time for my next episode of Baring It All Up Top... LOL

[@tabletopforone]

Yeah, it's totally your turn. 😆 My next top 10 video will show it.

[@nydaloth]

Great list!

[@tabletopforone]

Thank you! 🙂