Have you observed how your preferences for board games evolve over time? There are times when you want something satisfying and meaty. Something you can spend an entire evening immersed in, like a crunchy Euro or an RPG epic. Sometimes we’re looking for something easy and fast. Whether it’s a simple strategy game or something a bit more intricate that takes up half an hour of your evening, it doesn’t matter.
Well, I’ve been in this situation lately. Recently, my spouse and I have been enjoying popular games that are only available in two-player mode. I want to discuss four of the greatest player-only game versions in this blog, some of which you may already be familiar with or even own.
Azul: Duel
The poster child for abstract gaming is a good place to start. Because Azul has gained so much popularity, Highstreet retailers are now carrying a variety of versions. Michael Kiesling’s Duel version of the game, which was already highly acclaimed and rated at two players, was released in 2024.
Instead of tiling a wall for the Portuguese king, you are now tiling the palace’s beautiful ceiling. The original board’s pattern side limitations have been lifted, allowing players to choose dome plates in a variety of colour combinations. Additionally, there are still tight player interaction options where blocking your opponent from a particular tile colour may yield greater profits.
The gameplay has been tightened but is there anything else Azul: Duel has to offer? there is now a smaller box with the same excellent graphics and plastic tile production at a lower price point. For players who are returning, Duel offers a fresh challenge. Despite their similarities, the gameplay results in a quite different line-completing dance. This latest version offers bonus points in a novel way, in contrast to the original, which focused on rows and columns. It is a great rendition of an already perfect game, different and challenging without running the format.
Splendor Duel
Marc André was able to make his childhood hobby of modifying board games into a fulltime job thanks to the game Splendor. He has collaborated with renowned designer Bruno Cathala on this competitive across-the-table version. With his magnificent masterpiece 7 Wonders Duel, Bruno is arguably the most well-known developer of two-player games. You know you’re going to be treated when you enter Splendour Duel.
No devoted fans are let down by it. Combining Splendor’s finest features with the additions that some of the expansions offered for the game. However, this game also features a new gem display and new privilege tokens, which both increase the game’s tactical elements. Additionally, there are now three ways to win instead of just one. Either ten crown icons (new to Splendor Duel), ten of the same gem colour in a single column, or twenty points (it was fifteen in the original). Any of these methods will secure you the win and helps open the game a little.
With multiple victory conditions it allows for players to rush their own paths but also consider blocking off opportunities to each other. This is where Splendor Duel shines. In most games of base Splendor, one person’s engine far outperforms the others, but in this one, victories are much closer and tight fought.
The direct tension that two-player games are known for is heightened by the inclusion of pearl gems. With up to three choices of gems available at once, I also appreciate how simpler it is to obtain gems from the central board. This in addition to the card reservation system, keeps the game interesting and fun to play again.
Wingspan Asia
In contrast to other games on this list, this one is still a two-player exclusive despite its name. Part of one of the most recognisable titles this game is part of the Wingspan universe. Beyond gameplay there is the artwork which can be hung on your wall. As well as interactive birds sounds and music within the digital versions to help immerse you in the world even more. This game the theme is king.
Wingspan Asia offers a new game mode that is exclusively for two players, as well as new birds that allow you to discover the wonders of Asia. Duet is a brand-new game mode that is exclusive to this standalone expansion. It turns the end-of-round scoring concept into an area control battle. After each bird on the map, you place a token based on the criteria it satisfies in each of the three habitat areas. There is a catch however, if you are second, you will score zero for that end of round goal, but you will be able to go first on the next round.
Building your engine of pretty birds is no different from other games with the Wingspan name. But the draw for many people will be the choice to include it in your standard Wingspan games or play it on its own. The duet board is compatible with all other versions of the games so you can play Asia, Oceania, Europe and original Wingspan with tighter and deadlier competition. If you feel like you want a new challenge or want to try Wingspan out before taking the more expensive plunge, then Asia is a great purchase for you.
Codenames Duet
Codenames has made its mark as a great game for a large group of friends or family to enjoy and unwind with. The problem was that with less than 4 people the games never quite hit the same heights. Well, enter Codenames Duet which features the same deduction skills needed in the original. Only now you work cooperatively to reveal 15 agents.
The same name and number system is used, and player are allowed to take alternating turns. This allows a deeply engaging game, where you have a time-limit alongside not revealing the Assassin. Providing a fun spin on a tried and tested formula is not always easy but Codenames Duet does this so well. By having some of the information before you can help make educated guesses about who an agent is or isn’t. This along with the 15-word limit means that you must be on the same page and be willing to take risks with your clues.
This is one that will easily slot into your collection whether you have Codenames or not. The game is different enough that if there is only 2 of you, then it plays quicky and engagingly. 2 player games should be a smoother, more relaxed and speedier experience. It also is a win for some couples who do not want too much conflict on a Wednesday date night. Knowing who you are playing with, really make a difference between success and failure. Any two-player advocate will love the fun cooperative experience that is Duet!
This blog is part of a trio of features I have done on 2-player games. You can read my love letter to 7 Wonders Duel here. And you can also read my in-depth analysis of why 2 player versions are so great here.
