If the weather keeps you indoors or you run out of things to do during school vacations, family game nights are a great way to spend time together without spending lots of money. Pull out your games for post-dinner entertainment or when the weather is too cold or too hot to go outside.
Here’s our guide to find the best family games for any age or budget. (We categorize games as “splurge” are $25 and up.) You’ll love these cheap family games! (be sure to check the tips at the end of the post to find out how to make your own homemade board game, too!)
Stuck at home game guide for indoor fun
If you’re looking for cheap kids games, or games that you can create on your own, don’t miss this list. You’re sure to find a “stuck at home game” on this list to provide hours of fun.
Families with preschoolers
Best Game Under $15: Yahtzee Jr.
You don’t need to play original Yahtzee to enjoy the kids’ version of the popular dice game. Available in several licensed character themes, Yahtzee Jr. is simple enough for a 3-year-old to learn but entertaining enough to hold an adult’s attention. Players roll pictured dice and earn points for rolling the same character multiple times. The game teaches matching, counting and simple strategy.
Kids and adults can easily learn how to play Yahtzee Jr together.
- YAHTZEE GAME FOR KIDS: Do you love playing the classic Yahtzee game? Introduce your little ones to the game with the Yahtzee Jr.: Marvel Spidey and His Amazing Friends edition board game for kids
- SHAKE AND SCORE WITH SPIDEY AND FRIENDS: This preschool game features Marvel characters that kids love: Spidey, Miles Morales: Spider-Man, Ghost-Spider, and more
- ROLL, MATCH, SCORE: Players roll the dice and try to match as many characters as they can. The more Amazing Friends they can match, the higher their score
Best Free Game: Plunge
Preschoolers can’t get enough of this game that requires one adult and one or more children. The adult writes a secret word on a slip of paper and lies down with back on the floor and knees bent. The child sits on the adult’s knees, facing the adult and holding the adult’s hands. The adult asks questions with one-word responses, such as What’s your name?, What town do you live in? and How many pets do you have?
The child answers each question until speaking the secret word, whereupon the adult tips his or her knees and the child “plunges” to the ground (while still holding the adult’s hands for safety). Kids love the suspense, and they get some reading practice verifying the secret word written on the adult’s paper.
Families with Elementary Schoolers
Best Game Under $15: Uno
UNO, the familiar card game where players try to get rid of their cards by matching the color or number at the top of the deck, is simple, portable and fun for families of all sizes. It’s a great game for practicing sportsmanship because it relies more on luck than skill and eventually everyone has an opportunity to win. The more subtle aspects of sportsmanship come into play with the high-point cards like Skip and Draw 4.
- Four suits of 25 cards each, plus the eight Wild cards.
- Earn points from other players when you go out first.
- Reach 500 points to win the standard game.
Best Free Game: Five W’s
This Mad Lib-style game requires five or more players who can write simple words; strips of paper at least one inch wide and six inches long; and a pen or pencil for each player. Players sit in a circle. Each player starts with a blank strip of paper and, at the top, writes an answer to the question Who? For example: Mickey Mouse, Abraham Lincoln, The U.S. Olympic Team. When all players have finished writing, they fold the tops of their papers to the back so their responses don’t show and pass their papers to the right.
On the paper now in front of them, each player writes a response to the question What? This can be any past-tense action, such as: ate an entire turkey, raided the piggy bank, crossed the street without looking both ways. Again, players fold their responses to the back and pass their papers to the right.
Play continues with the questions Where? (under the boardwalk, on top of Old Smokey), When? (on the twelfth day of Christmas, when the moon came over the mountain) and Why? (in order to form a more perfect union, because a vest has no sleeves). On the final round, each player unfolds and reads the silly sentence on his or her paper.
Best Game Splurge: Ticket To Ride
While the rules of this game are simple enough for an 8-year-old, the complexity of play depends upon players’ strategic and tactical decisions. Players compete for points by collecting cards and building railroad routes across a board map of the United States. Your family can play this game again and again, with no two games alike, and play becomes more entertaining as players mature.
- FAST-PACED STRATEGY: Race to build your train routes across iconic American cities in this award-winning board game.
- COMPETITIVE FUN: Challenge friends and family in a 2-5 player game, where every move counts.
- COLLECT TRAIN CARDS: Strategically gather train cards to claim routes and earn points.
Families with Middle and High Schoolers
Best Game Under $15: Sorry
A classic family board game, Sorry combines luck and strategy, which makes it easier for younger kids while remaining challenging enough for adults. Billed as “the classic game of sweet revenge,” its object is for a player to get all of his or her playing pieces around the game board and safely into the space marked home — but the “Sorry” card, when drawn, allows other players to send them back to the very beginning. The game is similar to an even older game, Pahrcheesi.
- Ditch the TV, and re ignite family night with the get together amusement of a Hasbro game
- Hasbro gaming imagines and produces games that are perfect for every age, taste, and event
- Includes game board, 12 Sorry Pawns, 44 cards, and instructions
Best Free Game: Euchre
With hundreds of game options, a deck of cards provides countless hours of free entertainment. Euchre is a great card game for older kids because it is commonly played, it can accommodate 2 to 7 players, and once you know the basics you can change things up with several variations and extensions. The basic rules are available on the Bicycle Cards website. For a fun extension of Euchre, try American Five Hundred.
Best Game Splurge: The Settlers of Catan
If you have fond memories of playing The Oregon Trail computer game, Settlers of Catan is for you. Players collect points as they settle the fictional island of Catan, trading commodities to build roads and villages. The first player to collect 10 points wins. The game is for 2 to 4 players, but it also works with teams functioning as individual players. Subscribe to the Catan email list for discounts and special offers.
- EXPLORE CATAN: Set sail to the uncharted island of Catan and compete with other settlers to establish supremacy.
- RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: Strategically gather and trade resources like ore, brick, lumber, grain, and wool to expand your settlements.
- BUILD AND UPGRADE: Use your resources to build roads, settlements, and cities to earn victory points.
LOTC tip: Look for used board games at thrift stores and garage sales, but make sure the game you’re buying has all the essential pieces.
More cheap family board games
Here’s a list of 10 budget-friendly games that’ll turn a cold, wintry day into a bundle of fun. From timeless classics to fresh picks, there’s something for everyone.
Skip-Bo
A fun, easy-to-learn card game where players use strategy and sequencing to be the first to play all their cards. It’s got just the right mix of luck and planning, making it perfect for kids and adults alike!
- Skip-Bo is a timeless card game and a family favorite from the creators of UNO
- Players use skill and strategy to create sequential stacks of cards
- First player to use all the cards in their stockpile wins
Connect 4
Take turns dropping checkers into the grid and aim to make four in a row. It’s easy for little ones to grasp while still being a challenge for older players. Plus, there’s nothing more satisfying than blocking someone’s win at the last second!
- Add a blue disc to block opponents and lift discs higher
- Features blue Blocker Disc: This game includes blue Blocker Disc that open doors to new strategies
- Features blue Blocker Dics: this game includes blue Blocker Dics that open doors to new strategies
Exploding Kittens
This wildly fun card game combines strategy, luck, and humor. The quirky illustrations and crazy gameplay make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Bonus? It only takes about 15 minutes per round.
- HOW TO PLAY: Dive into the excitement of Exploding Kittens: Party Pack Edition, a thrilling card game where players draw cards, dodge explosions, and outsmart friends using clever strategies. Ideal for family card games, kids games, and party games for adults!
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: The Party Pack Edition features 120 cards with hilarious illustrations by The Oatmeal, plus an easy-to-follow guide for quick setup. Packaging may vary, but the fun and excitement are always guaranteed in this ultimate family card game!
- WHO’S IT FOR? Designed for 2-10 players, ages 7 and up, this card game is a hit with everyone! Whether you're looking for kids games, family games, or board games for adults, it’s ideal for any crowd or occasion.
Jenga
Pull a block, place it on top, and try not to make the tower crash! Jenga will have everyone holding their breath—and then bursting into laughter when the inevitable happens. Classic fun at its finest!
- Pull out a block without crashing the stack to win at Jenga
- Includes 54 Jenga hardwood blocks, stacking sleeve with instructions
- Simple, solid, and timeless. Each block is three times as long as its width, and one fifth as thick as its length 1.5×2.5×7.5 cm (0.59 in×0.98 in×3.0 in)
Trouble
Pop the dice in the iconic bubble and race to get all your pieces home. It’s simple to play and oddly satisfying to see your opponents stuck—and hear that pop sound, of course!
- Fun game for ages 5 and up: Just 2 players are needed to play the trouble board game; engages kids ages 5 and up
- 2-4 players: The trouble game is a fun activity for play dates, after school, and family time; Enjoy playing the game with 2, 3, or 4 players
- Power up spaces: The game instructions include options for playing the classic trouble game or using power up spaces
Throw Throw Burrito
Think dodgeball meets card game. You collect matching sets to score points, but beware—those squishy burritos will be flying across the room. It’s silly, active fun and perfect for burning off some snow-day energy.
- How to Play: Prepare for a party game like no other! Deal out cards, collect three of a kind to score points, and play Burrito Cards to trigger an epic battle. Duck, dodge, and dive as you and your friends hurl squishy burritos at each other. Accumulate points, avoid Burrito Bruises, and duel to determine the ultimate champion!
- What’s Included: Your Throw Throw Burrito set features 120 vibrant game cards, 2 soft, squishy foam burritos, 6 Burrito Bruise tokens, and 1 Fear Me Badge. It also includes a quirky instruction manual (that you might just skim) for hours of laugh-out-loud gameplay.
- Who's it For?: Perfect for 2-6 players, ages 7 and up, Throw Throw Burrito is ideal for kids, teens, and adults. Whether you're a party game veteran or trying something new, this game sparks excitement and friendly competition for everyone!
Candy Land
For younger kids, this colorful classic is a crowd-pleaser. Travel through the Gumdrop Mountains and Chocolate Swamp (no reading required!) and see who can reach King Kandy first.
- CLASSIC BEGINNER GAME: Do you remember playing Candy Land when you were a kid. Introduce new generations to this sweet kids' board game
- RACE TO THE CASTLE: Players encounter all kinds of "delicious" surprises as they move their cute gingerbread man pawn around the path in a race to the castle
- NO READING REQUIRED TO PLAY: For kids ages 3 and up, Candy Land can be a great game for kids who haven't learned how to read yet
Sorry!
Apologize (but not really) as you send players back to the start while advancing your own pawns. It’s easy to learn, full of surprises, and always keeps things interesting.
- CLASSIC SORRY GAMEPLAY: Get ready for classic Sorry. gameplay with an edge-of-your-seat race to home, so hurry up and get there first
- UNPREDICTABLE FUN BOARD GAME: The Sorry game is known as the game of "sweet revenge" since players can send each other's pawns back to the starting point
- GREAT GAME FOR FAMILIES: Do you remember playing the Sorry game when you were growing up. Bring back memories playing the Sorry game with family members and introduce it to a new generation
Spot It!
A compact, lightning-fast game where players race to find matching symbols on cards. It’s crazy addictive and comes in handy if you need a short game to break up the day.
- LIGHTNING-FAST MATCHING GAME: Challenge your observational skills and lightning reflexes with Spot It!, where players race to spot the only matching symbol between any two cards.
- FIVE GAMES IN ONE: Enjoy diverse gameplay with 5 built-in variations included in the set, ensuring endless entertainment and replayability for all ages.
- PERFECT FOR QUICK GAMES: Each round is fast-paced and energetic, ideal for quick game sessions that fit into any schedule, whether at home, school, or on the go.
Blokus
This puzzle-like game is all about claiming territory on the board. Each piece you place has to touch one of your other pieces, but only at the corners. It’s perfect for sneaky strategists and offers just the right amount of competition for parents and kids.
- The XL game board measures 12 x 12 inches – almost 2 inches larger than the regular game!
- Perfect strategy game for the whole family -- less than a minute to learn with fun challenges for all ages!
- Players take turns placing their 21 pieces on the board: each piece must touch another of the same color, but only at the corners!
Grab a game, gather your crew, and make the most of that snowy wonderland outside while staying warm inside! What’s next? You’ve got the snacks covered—now it’s game time!
How to make board games at home
Did you know that you can make your own board games to play as well? For an even more frugal board game approach, check out these tips!
Whether snowed in or just looking for a rainy-day project, designing a game lets you be imaginative while creating something you can play repeatedly.
Here’s an easy step-by-step guide to get you started.
Materials Needed:
- Large, sturdy cardboard or poster board (for the game board)
- Paper and pens/pencils
- Colored markers, crayons, or paints
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Glue stick or tape
- Index cards or small pieces of paper (for cards or instructions)
- Small objects for game pieces (think buttons, coins, beads, or LEGO figures)
- Dice (or make your own with paper or cardboard)
- Imagination and a sense of fun!
Steps to Create Your Own Board Game:
Come Up with a Fun Theme
Start by brainstorming ideas for your game. Will it be about space exploration? A treasure hunt? Maybe a baking contest or a wild jungle adventure? The theme sets the tone and helps guide your design.Design the Game Board
- Use your cardboard or poster board as the base.
- Sketch out a game path or layout using a pencil. This could be a winding path, grid, or creative shape like a snake or treasure map.
- Add spaces or “stops” along the way. These could mean drawing cards, rolling again, losing or gaining points, or funny challenges!
- Color and decorate your board to match your theme. Add mountains, rivers, treasure chests, or whatever fits your game’s vibe.
Create the Rules
Decide how players will move around the board. Here are some questions to guide you:- How do players start? Do they need to roll a dice or draw a card?
- How do they win? Is it about reaching the end, collecting items, or earning the most points?
- Are there special spaces with unique rules (like “go back three spaces” or “take a shortcut”)? Write these out clearly and keep it simple!
Make Game Pieces
- Gather small objects from around the house to use as game pieces. You could use buttons, coins, figurines, or even draw and cut out your characters.
- If you feel crafty, customize the pieces by painting or decorating them to match the game’s theme.
Build Cards or Special Items
- Use index cards or cut small pieces of paper to create cards for actions in your game. For example, a “Wild Card” might say, “Move ahead 2 spaces,” or “Lose a turn.”
- You can also make collectible pieces or tokens for players to pick up, like gold coins, treasures, or magical potions.
Playtest and Adjust
Gather your family to play a test round. Are the rules fair? Does the game flow smoothly? Adjust as needed to make sure everyone has a blast. You might need to add special challenges, tweak movement rules, or balance out the difficulty.Customize and Make It Unique
Add your own flair to make the game one-of-a-kind. Include:- Personal touches, like naming spaces after family members or inside jokes.
- Silly challenges or mini-games, like balancing something on your head or making animal noises when you land in certain spots.
- Learning elements, such as trivia questions or math problems, to add an educational twist.
Package It Up
Once your game is done, please keep it safe for future play! Store the pieces in a small box (like a shoe box) or a large resealable bag, and write the rules on a sheet of paper to include.
Tips for Creativity & Fun:
- Keep It Simple if you’re making a game with young kids. Too many rules can be confusing, and straightforward games are often the most fun.
- Use recycled materials! A cereal box can become a sturdy game board; old magazines are great for cutout decorations.
- Collaborate as a Family. Get everyone involved in coming up with ideas and designing the game. One person can draw, another can write the cards, and another can decorate the board.
- Don’t forget to name your game! Something catchy and fun will make it even more special.
Why It’s Awesome:
Making your own board game isn’t just a fun craft project—it’s an opportunity to learn, collaborate, and bond as a family. You can tailor every detail to suit your style and play preferences. Plus, it’s a great way for kids to get creative, practice problem-solving, and explore teamwork. Who knows? Your game could become the next family favorite!
Now, grab your supplies and start creating your masterpiece. Game on!
Thank you so much for these great ideas! During the holidays, our family (finally) has time to sit down together for board games, and this article has given me some great ideas. Come to think of it, some of these games will help break the ice and be a companionable way to spend time with out-of-town relatives when we go for a visit. (I LOVE the Five Ws game idea. That one is sure to be a hit with my family.)