What are filler games?
Essentially, filler games are shorter, simpler games designed to be played quickly. Think of them as the perfect palate cleansers between larger, more complex games.
Imagine, you’re planning a game night with friends, but you’re not sure how long you’ll be playing for. Maybe you have a heavier game planned, but want something lighter to warm up with. Or perhaps you have some time to kill before everyone arrives. This is where filler games come in handy!
Filler games are ideal for:
- Filling gaps in your gaming schedule: As the name suggests, they’re perfect for those awkward lulls between games or while you’re waiting for everyone to arrive.
- Warming up your gaming brains: Starting with a lighter game can help everyone ease into a more complex experience.
- Cooling down after a heavy game: Sometimes you just need a break from the intense strategy of a longer game. A quick, light game can help you unwind.
- Trying something new: Filler games are often easy to learn, making them a great way to introduce new players to the hobby.
Examples of Filler Games
Filler games offer a delightful variety of gameplay experiences. Trio is a simple yet engaging card game that combines memory, deduction, and a bit of luck. Players aim to collect sets of three matching cards by strategically revealing cards from their hands or a central pool. Trio is a game I enjoyed so much when introduced to it at Uk Games expo last year on the Friday I spent 2 days trying to find a copy to no avail.
Splendor is a card game where players take on the role of Renaissance-era merchants, collecting gems and purchasing development cards to gain prestige points. I love Spledor and have tons of plays on Board Games Arena
Azul is a tile-laying game where players compete to create beautiful mosaics. It’s a quick and engaging filler game that offers a satisfying blend of strategy and puzzle-solving, making it perfect for shorter gaming sessions.
There is a huge variety of choices. For two-player strategy, Hive and 7 Wonders: Duel are excellent. For Sale is a classic for quick property speculation, while No Thanks! is a tense card-passing game with a surprising twist.
Bluffing takes centre stage in Skull and Cockroach Poker, while deduction is key in Coup and Insider. Coloretto and Sushi Go! provide fast-paced card drafting action, while Love Letter offers a unique blend of luck and deduction. Cooperative games like Just One and Time Bomb foster teamwork and communication, while Timeline tests your historical knowledge with a unique card-laying mechanic.
This list shows the huge variety of choices available for filler games, everything from strategic depth to lighthearted fun. But which games are right for you, your game night and your gaming group
Finding the Right Filler Game for You:
With so many options available, finding the right filler game can seem daunting. Consider these factors:
- Player count: Some filler games are designed for specific player counts (e.g., two-player games, small groups).
- Complexity: Choose a game that matches your group’s preference for complexity.
- Theme: If you have a particular theme in mind, there are filler games that cater to various interests.
By exploring the world of filler games, you can enhance your game nights with a variety of quick, engaging experiences. So, next time you’re planning a gaming session, remember to include a few fillers to keep the fun flowing!