Here are the top 5 small box games you can pick up in 2025, all easy to carry, quick to learn, and packed with gameplay.
Big things really do come in small packages, especially when it comes to board games. Whether you’re short on shelf space, want something travel-friendly, or just love games that set up in seconds but keep you coming back for more, small box games are having a serious moment right now.
1. Sea, Salt & Paper
Publisher: Bombyx
Players: 2–4
Playtime: 20–30 minutes
This charming little game made waves earlier this year, and for good reason. Sea, Salt & Paper blends set collection with push-your-luck mechanics, all wrapped in stunning origami-inspired artwork. It’s fast, clever, and surprisingly tense, with each round offering players the chance to call “Stop” or take a bold “Last Chance” to outscore everyone.
A bestseller in the UK for the first half of 2025, it’s easy to teach and offers plenty of strategic depth for such a small deck.
2. Jaipur
Publisher: Space Cowboys
Players: 2
Playtime: 30 minutes
Jaipur is a modern classic for two players, and it fits beautifully into the small box category. Set in the bustling markets of Rajasthan, players trade, collect, and sell goods while trying to outwit their opponent and earn the Maharaja’s favour. It’s a fast-paced blend of tactics and timing — easy to learn but hard to master.
Perfect for travel, date nights, or coffee shop gaming, Jaipur continues to be one of the best two-player games you can buy in a small box.
3. Dutch Blitz
Publisher: Dutch Blitz Game Company
Players: 2–8
Playtime: 15–20 minutes
This one’s been around for a while, but it still holds strong as a top seller in the UK. Dutch Blitz is fast, chaotic, and pure adrenaline. It’s all about speed and pattern recognition, a race to play cards in sequence faster than your opponents. Perfect for big groups, family nights, or anyone who thrives on friendly (and sometimes not-so-friendly) competition.
4. Flip 7
Publisher: The OP
Players: 2–6
Playtime: 15 minutes
Described as “Blackjack for gamers,” Flip 7 hit the ground running this year with its sleek mix of luck and light strategy. Players flip and stack cards, trying to build rows adding up to exactly seven, all while pushing their luck against opponents doing the same. It’s quick to play, easy to bring out at the pub or on holiday, and highly addictive.
5. 7 Wonders Duel
Publisher: Repos Productions
Players: 2
Playtime: 30 minutes
A long-time favourite among couples and two-player gamers, 7 Wonders Duel continues to dominate small box charts in 2025. It keeps the drafting and civilisation-building feel of the original 7 Wonders, but adds clever mechanics and tight pacing for a brilliant head-to-head experience. It’s a must-have for date nights or competitive duos.
Final thoughts
These top 5 Small box games are some of the unsung heroes of game nights. They’re affordable, portable, and often just as rewarding as their bigger-box cousins. Whether you’re looking for something strategic, fast-paced, or just beautifully made, there’s a small box game on this list for everyone.
So next time you’re short on time or space but still want maximum fun, give one of these a try, you might be surprised just how much game can fit in your pocket.
Enjoyed this roundup?
If you’ve got a small box favourite that didn’t make the list, let me know in the comments! And if you’re curious to see more reviews, check out my thoughts on Sea, Salt & Paper or browse the rest of the site for more quick and clever games.
Until next time,
The Board Game Wagon
