Finding Time for Board Games: How to Keep Your Passion for Play Alive in a Busy World

Life moves fast. Between work, family, social commitments, and everything else that fills up our days, it’s easy to let our hobbies fall by the wayside. But for many of us, board gaming isn’t just a hobby—it’s a passion. It’s that one thing we do to relax, connect, and escape. So, how can we make sure we’re still carving out time to game, even when life gets busy? Let’s explore some practical tips and mindset shifts that can help you keep the joy of gaming alive, whether you’re flying solo or spending time with friends and family.

1. Prioritize Play: Treat Gaming Like an Appointment

The first step in making time for board games is giving them the same priority you would any other important event. Too often, gaming is seen as something we squeeze in "if we have time." But what if we flipped that mindset?

Try treating your game nights like an appointment. Whether it’s a Friday evening with friends or a quiet solo session on a Sunday afternoon, block it out on your calendar. Set a reminder and stick to it, just like you would for a meeting or a dinner reservation. By prioritizing play, you’re sending a message—to yourself and others—that gaming is a valuable part of your life. And if you’re someone who thrives on routines, a weekly game night can quickly become something you look forward to as much as any other regular activity.

2. Solo Gaming: Quality Time with Yourself

Not every game night has to involve a group of people. In fact, solo board gaming has become a huge trend, with more and more games offering dedicated solo modes that are just as engaging and rewarding as playing with friends. Games like Ark Nova, Spirit Island, and even the newly hot Unconscious Mind offer deep, rich experiences for solo players.

Solo gaming is a perfect fit for busy schedules because you can play whenever you have a spare moment. Whether it’s setting up a small game before bedtime, playing a couple of rounds on a lazy Sunday morning, or diving into a long solo campaign, solo gaming lets you engage with the hobby without the need to coordinate with others. Plus, solo gaming can be incredibly meditative—it’s you, the board, and the quiet satisfaction of strategizing and winning against the odds.

So, if you’ve ever thought you couldn’t game because you couldn’t gather a group, remember: some of the best gaming sessions are the ones you play alone.

3. Micro-Sessions: Gaming in Bite-Sized Chunks

Let’s be real—not everyone has the luxury of long, uninterrupted evenings for games. If you’re juggling kids, work deadlines, or an ever-growing to-do list, sitting down for a four-hour game of Twilight Imperium might seem impossible. But that doesn’t mean you can’t game!

Think about micro-sessions—quick, bite-sized gaming moments that can fit into your daily routine. Even if you only have 30 minutes, there are plenty of games that offer meaningful gameplay in short bursts. Games like The Crew, Cascadia, and 7 Wonders Duel are perfect for a quick gaming fix when time is tight. Even heavier games can be broken down into smaller sessions—try leaving the board set up and returning to it over a few days.

In fact, many solo gamers already adopt this approach. With longer solo campaigns like Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion or SILOS, you can leave the game set up and play a round or two whenever you find the time. These mini-sessions still scratch the gaming itch, without demanding long chunks of your schedule.

4. Make Gaming a Social Tradition

One of the best ways to ensure you’re making time for gaming is to turn it into a social tradition. Game nights with family or friends can become a regular part of your routine, offering the perfect way to stay connected in a busy world. Whether it’s a monthly meetup with your gaming group or a standing date night with your partner, scheduling regular gaming sessions makes it easier to prioritize.

The key is to make it fun, not stressful. If getting everyone together feels like a logistical challenge, start small. Keep the games simple and easy to set up, like Azul or Ticket to Ride. If friends are far away, consider playing over apps or platforms like Tabletop Simulator or Board Game Arena. This way, you can stay connected with your gaming circle no matter the distance.

Family gaming traditions are also a great way to introduce kids to the world of board games. Start with shorter games that are easy to explain, and gradually work your way up to more complex games as they grow. Games like King of Tokyo or Catan are excellent choices for bringing families together around the table.

5. Embrace the Joy of Unplugging

In our hyper-connected world, where screens dominate most of our daily interactions, board games offer something precious: an opportunity to unplug. Gaming allows us to disconnect from the digital world and immerse ourselves in something tactile and social. When we sit down for a game, we’re focused on the people around us and the experience on the table, not on notifications or emails.

This simple act of stepping away from screens can be incredibly refreshing. Whether it’s a solo session that helps you unwind after a long day or a social game night where you and your friends disconnect from your phones, board gaming gives us a rare chance to be fully present in the moment.

6. Keep the Passion Alive: A Reminder to Yourself

Finally, remember why you fell in love with board games in the first place. In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to put our passions on the back burner. But your love of gaming is still there, waiting to be rekindled.

Think back to your favorite gaming memories. Was it the thrill of discovery when you first played Terraforming Mars? The epic strategy session of Brass: Birmingham? Or maybe it was the simple joy of sharing a lighthearted game like Codenames with friends. Hold onto that feeling, and use it as motivation to keep gaming in your life, no matter how busy things get.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Life Push Your Passion Aside

In the end, finding time for board games in a busy life is all about intentionality. It’s about prioritizing play, whether that means a full-blown game night or a quiet solo session. It’s about creating social traditions that bring loved ones together, and remembering the joy of stepping away from screens to be fully present.

No matter how hectic your schedule, don’t let life push your passion aside. Board games offer a world of fun, strategy, and connection—and making time for that world is worth every moment.

So, next time you feel like there’s no time for gaming, pause and ask yourself: when’s my next game night?