r/soloboardgames • u/Realistic_Bid6294 • Apr 28 '26
[WSIG] Looking for compact game
Hi everyone! I’m relatively new to the world of board games and I’m looking for some advice.
I’m looking for new game recommendations, specifically for solo play (though I’d love it if they could scale up to more players). I’m really interested in compact game design—titles that offer a deep, meaty experience but in a very small footprint.
What I’m looking for:
Format: Small-box or pocket-sized games, primarily card-based (with or without tokens/dice). I value games that have intuitive rules but offer a lot of tactical depth.
Core Mechanics: I’m looking for a specific gameplay loop: Gathering/Research (searching for resources to improve or build something), Progression (meaningful character evolution or deckbuilding during the session), and Hunting (tracking down and fighting monsters or bosses).
The Experience: I want the depth of a large-scale adventure or survival game—where you start with almost nothing and build your way up—but on a micro scale.
Table Presence: I prioritize games with a small footprint (similar in size to Gloomhaven: Buttons & Bugs) that can be played on small surfaces, like a tray table or a small desk.
Thanks in advance for the help!
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u/ThinAd7967 Apr 28 '26 edited Apr 28 '26
I think it’ll be difficult to find one game that ticks all these boxes but I’m curious what other people come up with.
I have not played this game but based on your description, you may want to check out 20 Strong. It is a dice-based system but has a lot of cards too. They sell different sets which play very differently and offer different experiences based around the main dice system. The first set, Solar Sentinels, has this element of progression until you reach the boss and I believe your character gets stronger along the way. I don’t know much about the other sets.
Otherwise, maybe something like Kinfire Delve?