Solo board gaming has become increasingly popular, offering players the chance to enjoy the intricacies of tabletop gaming even when they’re alone. Many games now come with dedicated solo modes, often designed to challenge and engage players without the need for additional participants. Here are some of the best solo board games to try when you’re in the mood to play on your own.

1. Gloomhaven

• Overview: A cooperative, campaign-driven dungeon crawler, Gloomhaven offers a vast world filled with tactical combat and deep storytelling. Although primarily designed for groups, the game includes scenarios that can be played solo.
• Why It’s Great: Immersive narrative, character progression, and a plethora of scenarios make for endless replayability. Solo play allows you to experiment with different character classes and strategies.

2. Spirit Island

• Overview: In Spirit Island, players take on the roles of powerful nature spirits defending their island from colonizing invaders. The game features a dedicated solo mode and allows for various strategy combinations.
• Why It’s Great: Each spirit has unique abilities, making every game a new puzzle to solve. The game provides deep strategy and a sense of accomplishment as you protect your land.

3. Root: The Underworld Expansion

• Overview: While Root is known for its asymmetric multiplayer gameplay, the Underworld Expansion introduces a solo mode against an automated system called the “Automa.”
• Why It’s Great: Offers a unique asymmetrical experience where you can experiment with different factions and strategies against an AI opponent.

4. Final Girl

• Overview: This horror-themed game puts you in the shoes of a “final girl” character trying to survive and defeat a killer in a slasher movie scenario. It’s designed for solo play, allowing you to craft your own narrative.
• Why It’s Great: With different villains and locations, you can create a different story each time you play, along with modular gameplay that keeps things fresh.

5. Terraforming Mars

• Overview: In Terraforming Mars, players work to make the Red Planet habitable by managing resources and advancing their corporations. The game has a well-regarded solo variant that allows players to compete against a target score.
• Why It’s Great: Offers a satisfying blend of strategy and engine-building. The solo mode is very engaging, encouraging players to beat their high scores.

6. The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine

• Overview: This trick-taking game offers a cooperative experience where players (or just one player) complete missions by working together to win tricks. The game has a solo mode that lets you play through it, focusing on completing challenges.
• Why It’s Great: Each mission offers a unique challenge, making it enjoyable solo while still retaining its cooperative spirit.

7. Arkham Horror: The Card Game

• Overview: A cooperative living card game set in H.P. Lovecraft’s universe, Arkham Horror allows for deep storytelling and strategic play. It has a robust solo mode that lets you tackle scenarios alone.
• Why It’s Great: Provides an engaging mix of narrative and tactical decisions, perfect for solo players looking for a rich, immersive experience.

8. Mystic Vale

• Overview: A deck-building game where players develop their own cards through a unique “card crafting” system. Mystic Vale has a streamlined solo mode that lets you explore and build your deck without other players.
• Why It’s Great: The card crafting mechanic provides a fresh take on deck-building, and the solo mode allows for thoughtful strategy and planning at your own pace.

9. Onirim

• Overview: This solo card game has players wandering through a dream labyrinth, seeking to find doors before the deck runs out. It’s simple to learn but features strategic depth.
• Why It’s Great: Offers quick gameplay, making it perfect for short sessions. The thematic elements enhance the immersion of the experience.

10. Friday

• Overview: A solo deck-building adventure game where players help Robinson Crusoe survive on a deserted island while facing various challenges each turn. It’s a clever mix of strategy and resource management.
• Why It’s Great: The game is specifically designed for solo play, providing a challenging and rewarding experience with a high level of replayability due to its varied scenarios.

Conclusion

Solo board gaming offers a unique way to experience the joy of tabletop gaming without needing a dedicated group. Whether you prefer deep strategy, thematic immersion, or light-hearted fun, there’s a solo board game that fits your mood. With these selections, you can dive into rich narratives, engaging mechanics, and captivating puzzles—all while enjoying your own company. Happy gaming!