Hidden Board Game Gems You Probably Haven’t Tried (But Should!)
Hidden Board Game Gems You Probably Haven’t Tried (But Should!)
We all love the classics—Catan, Ticket to Ride, Codenames. But let’s be honest: they get dragged out every game night. If you’re ready to blow your friends’ minds with something new, it’s time to dive into the weird, wonderful world of board game hidden gems.
At Playzo, we’ve got more than just the usual suspects. Here are four games that deserve the spotlight (and a permanent spot on your shelf).
1. Bitoku – A Fever Dream in Board Game Form
Imagine Studio Ghibli made a Eurogame and sprinkled it with spirit dragons, pilgrims, and an excessive number of ways to score points. That’s Bitoku.
It looks gorgeous, plays deep, and makes your friends go, “Wait, what do these dice do again?” But once it clicks, it’s pure magic.
Why it’s a gem: Equal parts beautiful and brain-melting.
2. Sprawlopolis – A Whole City in Your Pocket
This game is just 18 cards. That’s it. But somehow, those 18 cards can turn into a sprawling city grid, complete with traffic headaches and zoning nightmares.
It’s cooperative, it’s clever, and it fits in your jeans pocket. Perfect for game nights on the go or when you want to feel like a city planner without the council complaints.
Why it’s a gem: Tiny box, skyscraper-sized replay value.
3. Imperial Settlers – Civilization, But Cute
Tired of “serious” civilization games that last longer than a Marvel movie marathon? Imperial Settlers gives you all the empire-building fun—Romans, Egyptians, Barbarians, and more—with bright, cartoony art that won’t scare off newcomers.
You’ll build, expand, and occasionally sabotage your friends’ plans. And you’ll look adorable doing it.
Why it’s a gem: Big strategy wrapped in a cute package.
4. Betrayal at House on the Hill – Who Invited the Traitor?
First half: explore a haunted mansion with your friends. Second half: one of you stabs everyone in the back and unleashes vampires, ghosts, or worse.
With 50+ scenarios, no two games are the same. One night you’re the hero, the next you’re the possessed villain. Either way, it’s the most fun you’ll have screaming at your mates around a table.
Why it’s a gem: Pure, spooky chaos with endless replayability.
Why Bother with Hidden Gems?
Because they:
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Keep game night fresh.
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Make you look like the cool one with “insider knowledge.”
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Usually end with someone saying, “Where did you find this?” (Answer: Playzo, of course).
Final Roll
So next time you’re about to dust off Catan for the hundredth time, stop. Instead, wow your friends with a spiritual forest journey, a pocket-sized city, a cute empire, or a haunted house full of backstabbing.
👉 Shop hidden gems at Playzo and make your next game night legendary.