AI results: Top 5 Board Games for Solo Players
- Aaron Baillio
- Mar 23
- 4 min read
Board games have long been a source of entertainment and social interaction, but what happens when you want to enjoy them alone? The good news is that many board games are designed specifically for solo play or can be adapted for a single player. In this blog post, we will explore what AI thinks is the top five board games that are perfect for solo players.
Why do I care what AI thinks?
Without going into a whole separate diatribe on AI, the pros and cons and ethical usage, I just want to state that I think it's a great tool for specific tasks. In this case, AI is great at statistical analysis and aggregate summary. What does that mean for this post? The AI tool here checked out all the published "lists" of top solo board games. So aggregated, these are the top 5 games that showed up the most.
Bottom line - this list comes from content creators across the internet! So there is a basis in realty. These are the games that most gaming content creators have said are the best for solo game play.
1. Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars is a strategic game where players take on the role of corporations working to make Mars habitable. The solo mode allows you to focus on your own corporation's development without the competition of other players.
Gameplay Overview
Objective: Raise the temperature, create oceans, and increase oxygen levels to make Mars livable.
Mechanics: Card drafting, resource management, and engine building.
Solo Mode: You play against a set of milestones and requirements to achieve terraforming goals within a limited number of turns.
Why It's Great for Solo Play
The game offers a rich narrative and deep strategy, allowing you to experiment with different tactics. The solo mode provides a satisfying challenge as you try to meet the terraforming requirements before time runs out. It's very challenging and so achieving victory, even if it's against the game "system," is extremely satisfying.
2. Spirit Island
Spirit Island is a cooperative game where players embody powerful spirits defending their island from colonizing invaders. The solo mode allows you to control multiple spirits, creating a unique and challenging experience.
Gameplay Overview
Objective: Protect your island from invaders by using your spirit powers strategically.
Mechanics: Area control, cooperative strategy, and resource management.
Solo Mode: You can choose to play with one or two spirits, each with unique abilities, to fend off the invaders.
Why It's Great for Solo Play
The depth of strategy in Spirit Island makes it a compelling solo experience. You can explore different combinations of spirits and tactics, making each game feel fresh and exciting. At this point, there are so many spirits to try out, the variability is nearly inexhaustible. On top of that, this one is very easy to play "multi-handed", i.e., playing several spirit players simultaneously. Since the game is designed to play against the "game system" anyway, this is great for solo play.
3. Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is a standalone entry in the Gloomhaven series, designed to be more accessible while retaining the core elements of the original game. It features a campaign mode that can be played solo.
Gameplay Overview
Objective: Complete scenarios and quests while developing your character's abilities.
Mechanics: Tactical combat, character progression, and scenario-based gameplay.
Solo Mode: You can control multiple characters, allowing for a rich narrative experience.
Why It's Great for Solo Play
The campaign structure provides a sense of progression and achievement. The tactical combat system allows for deep strategic planning, making it a rewarding solo experience. This one does require you to play multi-handed. If you're new to solo play, I'd recommend trying one of the other items on this list before coming to this one. While thematic and has that RPG feel, it's going to be a little more complex that other games on this list.
4. Wingspan
Wingspan is a beautifully designed game about birdwatching and conservation. The solo mode allows you to enjoy the game at your own pace while still engaging with its intricate mechanics.
Gameplay Overview
Objective: Attract the best birds to your wildlife preserves and score points.
Mechanics: Engine building, resource management, and card drafting.
Solo Mode: You play against an automated opponent, which adds a layer of challenge.
Why It's Great for Solo Play
The serene theme and stunning artwork make Wingspan a relaxing yet strategic game. The solo mode allows you to immerse yourself in the game without the pressure of competing against others. This is definitely the entry level game on the list and a great way to be introduced to solo gaming. The "automa" AI player is easy to manage and presents a pretty decent challenge to the game. There are some great app adaptations of this if you want to learn the game without shelling out for the cardboard. Definitely a cozy game that presents a challenge.
5. Onirim
Onirim is a solo card game that combines elements of strategy and luck. Players navigate through a dream world, trying to find doors before the deck runs out.
Gameplay Overview
Objective: Find all the doors in the dream world before the deck is exhausted.
Mechanics: Card management, luck, and strategic decision-making.
Solo Mode: Designed specifically for solo play, making it easy to set up and play.
Why It's Great for Solo Play
Onirim is quick to learn and play, making it perfect for short gaming sessions. The dreamlike theme and engaging mechanics create a captivating experience that can be enjoyed anytime. I personally haven't played this game yet, and I really don't have any interest in it despite the rave reviews. That being said, I can recognize that it provides an excellent game play with an interesting challenge.
Conclusion
Solo board gaming offers a unique way to enjoy the strategic depth and creativity of board games. Whether you're terraforming Mars, defending an island, or attracting birds to your preserve, these top five games provide engaging experiences for solo players.
So, gather your game pieces, set up your board, and dive into the world of solo board gaming. You might just discover a new favorite pastime!
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