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  • 9 Best 2-Player Board Games | UK Gaming Blogger Reviewed 1
  • 9 Best 2-Player Board Games | UK Gaming Blogger Reviewed 2
  • 9 Best 2-Player Board Games | UK Gaming Blogger Reviewed 3
  • 9 Best 2-Player Board Games | UK Gaming Blogger Reviewed 4
  • 9 Best 2-Player Board Games | UK Gaming Blogger Reviewed 5

9 Best 2-Player Board Games | UK Gaming Blogger Reviewed

If you're looking for something to entertain yourself on an afternoon or evening in the house or even in the garden, a board game is a perfect way to keep yourself entertained; adults love them just as much as kids! Ones that have been designed especially for two players are a great option for couples or if you fancy a quick game with a friend.

There are so many different types of board games to choose from though – should you go for a cooperative strategy game or a horror-themed competitive one? To help you out, we’ve created a guide alongside a list of recommendations to buy at Amazon and John Lewis from brands like Lookout Games, Fantasy Flight Games and Asmodee.
Last updated 31/01/2025

Quick List - Top 2-Player Board Games

1

Asmodee

7 Wonders: Duel
7 Wonders: Duel

A Special 2-Player Version of the Captivating Civilization Builder

2

Gen42 Games

Hive: A Game Crawling With Possibilities
Hive: A Game Crawling With Possibilities

A Chess-Style Game That You Can Set Up Anywhere

3

Fantasy Flight Games

Hey, That’s My Fish!
Hey, That’s My Fish!

Fast-Paced Action for Those Wanting a Quick Game

4

Winning Moves

Bananagrams
Bananagrams

A Legendary Word Game That's Ideal for Travel

5

Z-Man Games

Pandemic
Pandemic

Work Together With a Partner or Friend to Save the World

Benjamin Titmus
Expert
Writer, Gaming Blogger
Benjamin Titmus

Benjamin is a writer of fiction and occasional video-game reviewer. He gained his MA in English Literature from Birmingham City University, where he was the editor for The Student Anthology. Though his main enjoyments are reading, writing, music and gaming, he has time for anything that tickles his fancy.

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Table of Contents

With Specialist Consultation From Gaming Blogger Benjamin Titmus

With Specialist Consultation From Gaming Blogger Benjamin Titmus

Benjamin is a writer of fiction and occasional video-game/game reviewer. He gained his MA in English Literature from Birmingham City University, where he was the editor for The Student Anthology. Though his main enjoyments are reading, writing, music and gaming, he has time for anything that tickles his fancy. Learn more about him and his blogs from here.

How to Choose a 2-Player Board Game in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Decide Your Preferred Game Theme or Genre
  2. Choose Between Co-op or Competitive Games
  3. Look Out for the Game Duration
1

Consider Theme and Genre for a Game You Will Enjoy Playing Again and Again

Consider Theme and Genre for a Game You Will Enjoy Playing Again and Again

Choose Strategy or Escape Room Games to Shake Up Date Night and Build Communication With a Partner

Spending date night at home? Strategy and escape room board games can be a good way for couples to spend some quality time, whether working together or against each other for some healthy competition that's sure to be exciting. If you are still in the early days of dating, these can also be an organic way to get to know each other even better and break down any awkward barriers. 

These types of games often include solving puzzles and following clues, which are great for encouraging and strengthening communication. They also take longer to complete and requires some dedication - perfect for long term couples who are looking for a new hobby to spend time together. 

Go for Trivia and Word Games If You Want Something Quick and Easy to Pick Up When Friends Are Over

Trivia and word games are perfect to have on hand as it can quickly bring excitement to any gathering at home with friends and family. These are quick and easy to understand as they don't involve any backstory or complex rules to learn, so are ideal for quick after-dinner games or for taking out on a whim during boring days. Some can even include more players of up to 6 or 8 people.


Looking for games where the whole family can join in? Browse our best family board games here!

Benjamin Titmus
Writer, Gaming Blogger
Benjamin Titmus

Many a time, have I bought a game based on a theme I love, only to find the gameplay isn't as good as I thought it would be. Don't just learn what theme you like; make sure you learn what mechanics you prefer. Do you like co-op or a tableful of players? Card-based or area control board games? You may surprise yourself and find that a mechanic alone is enough to keep your attention.

2

Choose Co-op Games to Work Together or Competitive Styles if You Don't Mind Battling Against a Partner or Friend

Choose Co-op Games to Work Together or Competitive Styles if You Don't Mind Battling Against a Partner or Friend
Depending on your personality, your mood and who you're playing with, you’ll either want to play peacefully alongside a partner or friend or wage an epic battle against them. Many games rely on two players fighting each other to gain the most pieces or to reach a target first.


Whilst the majority of our recommendations are competitive games that set you against your opponent, it’s also worth considering a cooperative game if you enjoy teamwork and playing at a more relaxed pace.


For a fun and rewarding way to wind down, explore our favourite jigsaw puzzles!

Benjamin Titmus
Writer, Gaming Blogger
Benjamin Titmus

It's worth remembering that many board games can be cooperative and competitive depending on your group's rules. If you allow allegiances to be formed, where players can strategise between themselves, you can add another dimension to your game time. 


Some players may not be used to playing certain games; therefore, it's a good idea to allow them to team up temporarily with other players. This often helps to diffuse those competitive moments and encourages everyone to have a good time. Competitive gameplay is naturally intense, but it's important to make competition fun.

3

Take Note of the Length: Some Shorter Games Take Less Than 20 Minutes While Others Can Last for Hours

Take Note of the Length: Some Shorter Games Take Less Than 20 Minutes While Others Can Last for Hours
When you’ve got a long evening ahead, there’s nothing better than a game that will last for hours and keep you entertained until bedtime. But if you’re only after a quick gaming fix, it’s best to choose something short and sweet.


Luckily, there are a plethora of games out there that range in duration from 20 minutes and even up to 4 hours. So, check the approximate time stated on the packaging to ensure you pick the right one for what you have planned, whether that's an upcoming train journey or a regular Friday game night.


Check out our best board games for adults!

Benjamin Titmus
Writer, Gaming Blogger
Benjamin Titmus

If you only have one hour, you're not going to play a game with a long setup that you'll never finish in time. Regardless of the estimate provided on the box, learn how long games take your group to complete. If I don't take one, I'll at least bring four or five shorter games with me, so we're never without something to do.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

9 Best 2-Player Board Games in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Asmodee

7 Wonders: Duel

Asmodee 7 Wonders: Duel 1

A Special 2-Player Version of the Captivating Civilization Builder

2

Gen42 Games

Hive: A Game Crawling With Possibilities

Gen42 Games Hive: A Game Crawling With Possibilities 1

A Chess-Style Game That You Can Set Up Anywhere

3

Fantasy Flight Games

Hey, That’s My Fish!

Fantasy Flight Games Hey, That’s My Fish! 1

Fast-Paced Action for Those Wanting a Quick Game

4

Winning Moves

Bananagrams

Winning Moves Bananagrams 1

A Legendary Word Game That's Ideal for Travel

5

Z-Man Games

Pandemic

Z-Man Games Pandemic 1

Work Together With a Partner or Friend to Save the World

6

Fantasy Flight Games

Star Wars Rebellion

Fantasy Flight Games Star Wars Rebellion 1

Choose a Side and Fight for the Galaxy

7

Paul Lamond Games

Stupid Deaths

Paul Lamond Games Stupid Deaths 1

A Game That'll Have You Trying to Escape the Clutches of the Grim Reaper

8

Lookout Games

Patchwork Express

Lookout Games Patchwork Express 1

Quick and Easy, Great for Creative Minds

9

Thames & Kosmos

EXIT: Catacombs of Horror

Thames & Kosmos EXIT: Catacombs of Horror 1

The Perfect Spooky Story for Older Players

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Asmodee
7 Wonders: Duel

7 Wonders: Duel 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£17.82
Mid
Reference price
£17.82
Mid

A Special 2-Player Version of the Captivating Civilization Builder

This scaled-down version of the best-selling Duel game is designed exclusively for 2 players. You’ll play as a civilisation, deciding whether to invest your money in scientific development, military power, or building world wonders. But be warned – whatever you spend your resources on, there’s always the chance that your opponent will attempt to destroy your cities and all of your hard work!

We love the fact that there’s no one way to win this game – victory can be won through different means which all depend on the cards you draw. You can also buy an expansion pack if you want to create even more exciting scenarios, so this is a product that will keep you playing for hours. Endless entertainment for an affordable price, what more could you ask for?
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No.2

Gen42 Games
Hive: A Game Crawling With Possibilities

Hive: A Game Crawling With Possibilities 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£21.95
Mid
Reference price
£21.95
Mid

A Chess-Style Game That You Can Set Up Anywhere

If you’re looking for a fresh take on chess, try Hive! This addictive strategy game is designed for 2 players, and your objective is to completely surround your opponent’s queen whilst protecting your own. Each bug piece has a different role and movement style, so there’s no easy way to win – you’ll have to stay sharp at all times!

Although Hive doesn’t have a board, this is an advantage because it means you can play it on any flat surface and it doesn’t require setting up. While the rules are simple, this is a detailed game which you’ll love to replay again and again.
No.3

Fantasy Flight Games
Hey, That’s My Fish!

Hey, That’s My Fish! 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£43.40
High Mid
Reference price
£43.40
High Mid

Fast-Paced Action for Those Wanting a Quick Game

In Hey, That’s My Fish!, players control angry penguins trying to collect as many fish as possible, but there’s a catch – every time you move, the iceberg below you breaks away! If you don’t plan out your moves carefully, you may find yourself trapped in an area with very few fish.

We recommend this game because although it’s a simple concept, it’s fast-paced and requires lots of strategising. Plus, as each game only lasts about 20 minutes, you can easily fit in a quick round whenever you feel like having some fun.
No.4

Winning Moves
Bananagrams

Reference price
£9.59
Low

A Legendary Word Game That's Ideal for Travel

If you love games like Scrabble but want something more exciting (and more competitive!), then we recommend Bananagrams. Rather than taking turns, players race side by side – the first person to use up all of their letters on one grid wins.

Although this game technically doesn’t have a board, we think it’s such a great game for 2 players that we just had to include it in our list. It’s particularly useful for both adults and kids who want to improve their vocabulary whilst having fun. We also love that it’s inexpensive and very portable – the banana-shaped carry bag means it’s perfect for when you’re on the go!
No.5

Z-Man Games
Pandemic

Reference price
£17.99
Mid

Work Together With a Partner or Friend to Save the World

Teamwork is everything in Pandemic, with players working together to keep the world safe from outbreaks of disease. The game involves travelling across the globe, using your character’s unique skills to treat infections and find resources for cures. Will you find all four cures before time runs out?

The co-operative aspect of this game is a real selling-point, and makes it ideal for just 2 players. The fact that you can take on a new role with different strengths each time means you’ll be sure to re-play this game often!
No.6

Fantasy Flight Games
Star Wars Rebellion

Star Wars Rebellion 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£87.99
High
Reference price
£87.99
High

Choose a Side and Fight for the Galaxy

In Star Wars Rebellion, the fate of the galaxy rests in your hands. Which side will you choose – the heroic rebels or the villainous Imperial forces? Depending on who you play as, you’ll have different win conditions so you’ll need to plan out your attacks carefully. It’s up to you to command starships, move troops, and persuade systems to join your cause.

This is an impressively designed board game that will keep you occupied for many hours. If you’re a hardcore Star Wars fan then you’ll be happy to splash your cash on this game, but for many people it may sadly be a bit too expensive.
No.7

Paul Lamond Games
Stupid Deaths

Stupid Deaths 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£18.98
Mid
Reference price
£18.98
Mid

A Game That'll Have You Trying to Escape the Clutches of the Grim Reaper

In Stupid Deaths, it’s up to you to work out whether each death scenario is true or false – and some of them are quite amusing! As you move around the board, you’ll be racing against the Grim Reaper who is determined to catch up with you before you reach home.

The unique premise of this game is sure to keep you entertained, and it’s pretty affordable. However, once you’ve played it a few times, you’ll start to know the answers – so unfortunately it can lose its appeal fairly quickly.
No.8

Lookout Games
Patchwork Express

Patchwork Express 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£17.60
Mid
Reference price
£17.60
Mid

Quick and Easy, Great for Creative Minds

Patchwork Express is a smaller version of the classic quilt-designing game Patchwork, which is specially designed for 2 players. The aim of the game is to build the most aesthetically pleasing (and high-scoring) patchwork quilt, by collecting buttons and covering as many spaces as possible. If you’ve got a creative brain, this is definitely the game for you!

Whilst we love the design aspect of Patchwork Express, it’s a shame that each game tends to only last around 10 minutes. However, this does mean you can replay it lots of times in one evening if you want to!
No.9

Thames & Kosmos
EXIT: Catacombs of Horror

EXIT: Catacombs of Horror 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£16.99
Mid
Reference price
£16.99
Mid

The Perfect Spooky Story for Older Players

This escape room game by Thames & Cosmos is set in the catacombs of a crypt in Paris. After your friend mysteriously disappears, you must make your way through the underground labyrinth to find them, before escaping the darkness of the catacombs. This game is definitely not for those who are easily scared!

The downside to this game is that it can only be played once because you have to mark up and tear the materials in order to crack the codes. The difficulty rating is also high, and it’s only suitable for mature players due to the scary content.

Tips From Game Blogger Benjamin Titmus

Tips From Game Blogger Benjamin Titmus

Spend plenty of time reading through the instruction manual whilst you play the game for the first time so that you probably won't have to refer back to it that often in the future. If you try to 'play by feel', you'll be continually opening the booklet, which will waste time and lead to breaks in the gameplay and lapses in concentration. 


It can also be tedious for friends who may not play board games as regularly. Longer, more strategic games will usually have overly comprehensive instructions, so YouTube is a fantastic tool where various channels teach you how to play. It's best to take your time, stop, ask questions so that future play-throughs are much smoother.

Written and Researched by Nicola McClements

Top 5 2-Player Board Games

No. 1: Asmodee7 Wonders: Duel

No. 2: Gen42 GamesHive: A Game Crawling With Possibilities

No. 3: Fantasy Flight GamesHey, That’s My Fish!

No. 4: Winning MovesBananagrams

No. 5: Z-Man GamesPandemic

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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