Who says quality board games need to come with a hefty price tag? For under £30, you can dive into hours of entertainment with games that bring creativity, strategy, and social interaction to the table. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the hobby, these five titles are, in our opinion, some of the best budget-friendly options available.
1. Hues & Cues
Price: ~£24.99
Players: 3–10
Playtime: 30 minutes
In our experience, Hues & Cues is a wonderfully unique game that tests your creativity and colour perception. Players give simple one- or two-word clues to help others pinpoint a specific colour on a vibrant spectrum board. It’s simple to learn but deceptively tricky, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual game nights. If you enjoy laughter-filled moments and creative challenges, we think you’ll love this one.
You might like
- Easy and fun
- Good for larger groups
- children can easily join in
You might not like
- Only a party game
- Need at least 4 to work well
2. Magic Maze
Price: ~£29.99
Players: 1–8
Playtime: 15–30 minutes
For fans of fast-paced cooperative games, Magic Maze is, in our opinion, an absolute must-try. Players work together silently to guide their characters through a shopping mall heist. Each person can only perform specific movements, creating moments of chaos and hilarity. With escalating difficulty and quick playtime's, it’s a game we’ve found to be both exciting and refreshingly different.
You might like
- Quick to explain
- Easy to set up
- Lots of replay-ability
- Plays well in larger groups
You might not like
- The time pressure
- Yelling at each other when you lose
3. One Night Ultimate Werewolf
Price: ~£24.99
Players: 3–10
Playtime: 10 minutes
Social deduction games are always a hit, and One Night Ultimate Werewolf is one we think stands out for its quick playtime and endless replay-ability. Players take on secret roles, trying to figure out who among them are the werewolves—or bluff their way to victory as one. It’s a thrilling, fast-paced game that keeps everyone engaged, and in our view, it’s one of the best options for parties or game nights.
You might like
- Flexible game play time
- Free app
- Great concept , fun to lie to your friends
You might not like
Trying to absorb the roles and rules4. Splendor
Price: ~£29.99
Players: 2–4
Playtime: 30 minutes
If you enjoy strategy games, Splendor is, in our opinion, a must-have classic. Set in the Renaissance, players collect gems and compete to build wealth and attract nobles. Its simple rules and strategic depth make it accessible for beginners and satisfying for experienced players alike. We’ve found it’s the perfect blend of elegance and strategy, making it a staple in any game collection.
You might like
- Simple game play ,good gateway game
- Nice feeling components
You might not like
- Simple game play not challenging for advanced gamers
- Limited replay-ability
5. Tiny Epic Galaxies
Price: ~£29.99
Players: 1–5
Playtime: 30–60 minutes
For space enthusiasts and strategy fans, Tiny Epic Galaxies delivers big game play in a small box, and we think it’s an excellent choice. This game combines resource management, dice rolling, and planet colonisation into an engaging experience. Whether solo or with a group, we’ve found it to be consistently rewarding and fun—proof that great games can come in compact packages.
You might like
- Easy to learn
- Quick play time
- Plenty of depth
You might not like
- Little player interaction
- Small pieces can be fiddly
Why We Love These Games
These five games represent, in our opinion, some of the best value you can get for under £30. They each offer unique game play experiences, whether it’s the creativity of Hues & Cues, the strategic depth of Splendor, or the high-energy fun of One Night Ultimate Werewolf.
Of course, everyone’s tastes vary, but we’re confident these titles will bring hours of enjoyment to your tabletop. Which one will you try first? Let us know your favourites!