Miniatures bring a board game to life. Instead of flat tokens, players move detailed figures of heroes, monsters, spaceships or fantasy creatures across the board. For many players, the look and feel of the pieces is half the fun. Here’s what you need to know about board games with miniatures, from the main types to choosing, storing and painting them.
What are miniatures board games?
Miniatures board games use small, sculpted figures to represent characters or units. The figures usually come unpainted in gray or colored plastic. Some games use only a handful of figures, while big-box games can include dozens.
Miniatures don’t change the rules on their own, but they make the game easier to read at a glance and much more fun to look at.
Common types of miniatures games
Dungeon crawlers
Players control a team of heroes exploring rooms, fighting monsters and collecting loot. These games often play cooperatively against the game.
Skirmish games
Two players or teams face off with small groups of figures on a map. Positioning and planning matter most.
Story-driven adventure games
Some games follow a story or campaign, with scenarios that connect from one session to the next. Many are based on books, films or video games.
Tabletop roleplaying
Games like Dungeons & Dragons often use miniatures to show where characters stand in a battle. Read about the benefits of games like D&D if you’re curious about roleplaying.
How to choose a miniatures game
Theme
Pick a world your group loves, whether that’s fantasy, sci-fi or horror. A familiar setting makes rules easier to remember.
For example, fans of the Mass Effect video games may enjoy Mass Effect: Priority Hagalaz, a board game in which players lead Shepard’s squad through a crashed Cerberus research cruiser on the storm-wracked world of Hagalaz.
Player count
Check the box. Some games are built for two players, while others handle a whole group.
Complexity and play time
Miniatures games range from an hour to a whole afternoon. If you’re new, choose a game with a shorter play time and a simple first scenario.
Table space
Big boards and many figures need a large table. Measure before you buy.
Shop the gear
Upgrading your game
Many players enjoy small upgrades that make their games feel special:
- Dice. A distinctive set adds flair. A gem dice set of seven polyhedral stone dice suits roleplaying and adventure games.
- Card sleeves to protect cards from wear.
- Organizers or inserts to speed up setup.
- Painted figures for a personal touch.
Painting miniatures: a quick start
Painting is optional, but many players find it relaxing.
- Wash the figures in warm, soapy water and let them dry.
- Prime them with a thin coat of primer so paint sticks.
- Start with base colors using thin layers.
- Add a wash to bring out details.
- Highlight raised edges with lighter colors.
- Seal them with a clear varnish to protect your work.
Go slowly, work in good light and don’t worry about mistakes. Even simple base colors make the table look better.
Storing and caring for miniatures
- Keep figures in compartment boxes or foam trays so they don’t bend or chip.
- Store boxes flat and away from heat, which can warp plastic.
- Handle painted figures by their bases.
- Label boxes so setup is quick next time.
Are miniatures games good for families?
Many are. Kids often love the figures, and cooperative adventure games let families work together. Choose a game with a suitable age range, and see our guide to board games for kids. For more strategy ideas, read top strategy board games.
Gifts for miniatures fans
If you’re shopping for someone who loves miniatures games, small extras are always welcome: a distinctive set of dice, a storage case with foam trays, a starter paint set or a new scenario for a game they already own.
FAQ
Do I have to paint the miniatures?
No. Games play perfectly well with unpainted figures. Painting is just an optional hobby.
Are miniatures games hard to learn?
Some are, but many have simple starter scenarios. Check the play time and age range for clues.
What’s the best way to store miniatures?
Use foam trays or compartment boxes and keep them away from heat.
Can I use miniatures in other games?
Yes. Many roleplayers use figures from board games to represent characters.
Are miniatures games expensive?
They can be, because the figures add cost. Start with one base game before buying expansions.
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