Solo board gaming: used to see it as a compromise, now I prefer it over group nights

Three years ago, I'd only play board games with at least 3 people. After a failed D&D session where two players bailed last minute, I tried Spirit Island solo and realized I actually get more strategy done alone. Is it just me, or does solo play scratch a different itch?

3 comments

3 Comments

lilyp371mo ago

Notice how the same thing happens with cooking - everyone thinks group meals are better, but cooking alone lets you actually focus on the recipe without distractions. It's part of this whole cultural pressure we put on ourselves to always be social, even when our brains need quiet focus time. Solo gaming is really just another way of saying "I know what I like and I don't need an audience to enjoy it.

ray_martinez821mo ago

Heard a buddy say he learned more about cooking in one solo session than a year of group dinners.

phoenix2461mo ago

Oh man, this is so true! I actually find solo gaming way more relaxing because I can take my time and really think through every move without someone rushing me. It's like the difference between going to a loud restaurant versus just making your favorite meal at home by yourself. Plus you never have to deal with that one person who takes forever on their turn or argues about rules. I think there's something really nice about being able to just sit with the game and your own thoughts for a while.