Game Night Envy: How to Host the Ultimate Board Game Night Without Spending a Fortune

Ever had that moment where you’re scrolling through social media and you see someone’s perfectly curated game night? The snacks, the drinks, the laughter - and, of course, the shelf full of shiny board games. And you think: “That looks amazing, but I can’t afford to buy a dozen new games just for one evening.”

Here’s the good news: you don’t need to.

I’ve hosted my fair share of board game nights. Some epic, some chaotic, and more than a few where we ended up playing the same game for the tenth time because, well, that’s all we had. That’s actually what sparked the idea for Love Board Games. I thought,

“Wouldn’t it be amazing if people could rent board games like they do movies - no commitment, just fun?” 

And just like that, the idea for a board game rental service was born. So no one would ever have to suffer through another boring game night again.

Let me show you how to host a game night that’ll make your mates jealous, and how to do it without spending a fortune.

🎲 Step 1: Ditch the Idea That You Have to Own Everything

Look, I love board games as much as the next guy (probably more). But buying every new game? That gets expensive - fast. Some of the best ones out there cost over £60, and if you want variety, you’re easily talking hundreds of pounds and a whole lot of storage space.

That’s where a board game subscription comes in. Instead of buying, you borrow board games through a monthly plan. You get fresh games delivered to your door, and once you’re done, you send them back and try something new.

It’s like Netflix for board games - but better.

🍕 Step 2: Build the Vibe (Without Breaking the Bank)

You don’t need themed décor or fancy lighting to make a night memorable. Some snacks, comfy seats, good company - and the right game - that’s all you need. One thing I like to do is pick a theme around the games we’re playing. Borrowing a spooky game? Cue the candles and horror playlist. Playing something cozy like Azul or Patchwork? Make tea and bring out the biscuits.

And the best part? With Love Board Games, you can plan your theme after you see what games are available. You don’t have to commit to one game forever. You can rent board games that suit your mood, your group size, or even the weather (yes, rainy-day games are 100% a thing).

👥 Step 3: Match the Game to the Group

Not every game works for every crowd. Some friends love deep strategy, others want laughs and chaos. With a board game rental, you’re not stuck with one type of game. Want to try a new party game this week and a two-player brain-burner next week? Done.

Some favourites I would recommend:

• Ticket to Ride: Europe – Great for beginners and veterans alike.

• Dixit – Imaginative and perfect for groups.

• Carcassonne – Easy to learn, satisfying to master.

You can switch it up every time you host, keeping your game nights fresh and exciting.

💡 Step 4: Rotate, Refresh, Repeat

The key to avoiding game night burnout is variety. If you own five games, eventually everyone knows the rules, the strategies, and the jokes. But when you borrow board games regularly, every game night feels new. There’s always something different to explore.

And it’s not just about novelty, it keeps your guests coming back. They’ll start to look forward to your game nights not just for the snacks, but to see what game you’ve got lined up next.

Trust me, people notice.

💸 Step 5: Save Money, Still Be the Hero

Here’s the kicker: you can host epic game nights for a fraction of the cost of buying new games. No more impulse purchases that sit on the shelf. No more stressing about which game to invest in next.

With a board game subscription from Love Board Games, you get choice, convenience, and zero clutter. You can rent board games, explore hidden gems, and bring people together, all without blowing your budget.

So, Ready to Level Up Your Game Night?

Hosting the ultimate board game night doesn’t mean owning shelves of games or spending a small fortune. It means choosing the right games for the right people, and keeping things fun and flexible.

Rent board games, borrow what you love, and let your game nights become the stuff of legend.

Check out our board game subscription options at Love Board Games and start planning your next unforgettable night in.