Offline board games for a long trip: Ludo, carrom, chess and more
Board games for a train, a plane or a waiting room: which offline board apps to load before you travel, and what each one needs.
A long journey needs something to do with your hands, and a board game on a phone is one of the best options. You do not need a board or a set of pieces. You need a battery, an offline app, and a game the group already knows. Here is how to choose one for a trip.
For short turns
Ludo is the simplest choice for a short trip. A turn is one roll and one move, so the game moves quickly, and you can stop at any point and pick it up later. Board Adda from Live Game Labs includes Ludo alongside carrom and chess. Read the Board Adda guide before you pack it.
For longer games
Chess takes longer. A full game can run for an hour, and the rules take a while to learn. If you want chess on a trip, load it before you leave and read the piece moves guide on the way.
For a mix
Board Club from Play Boom Games is built to hold many classics in one app, so a group can switch between games. Install it before you travel, and check that the games you want run without a connection.
Before you travel
Install and open every game once at home. That way you know it works offline, and you are not waiting for a download when the signal drops. Keep the battery charged, and bring a cable.
Get it
Questions people ask
Which board game is best for a short trip?
Ludo. Each turn is short, the rules fit in a minute, and a game can end before the train reaches the next station.
Which board game is best for a long flight?
Chess, if you want a full game, or Board Club, if you want to switch between games. A chess game can run for an hour or more.
Do these games need Wi-Fi?
Board Club is described as an offline app by its studio. Board Adda's site does not say so, so check its store listing before you travel.
Can I play board games against someone on another phone?
Most offline apps play against bots. Check each listing if you need a multiplayer mode.
How do I pick a board app?
Look for the games your group knows, check the offline claim on the listing, and install before you leave home.
Where can I find these board apps?
Board Adda is from Live Game Labs. Board Club is from Play Boom Games.