It is worth thinking about the setting too. Games with a drawstring bag or a tin survive being thrown in a rucksack better than a large flat box. For a caravan or a beach hut with limited space, pick a few small games rather than one big one, so you can match the game to the mood without taking up a whole shelf.

By eight to twelve, most children enjoy games with a little strategy or a competitive edge. Word and number games, such as WordSnap XL, and family favourites like Snakes and Ladders in its bigger 3D versions give them something to plan around and enjoy together. Mixed-age families get on best with games that scale, so older and younger siblings can play the same round.

Difficulty varies a lot, so read the age guidance and the suggested group size. A game aimed at families with younger children keeps the clues fairer and the reading lighter, while a harder title will have adults scratching their heads. Working through the puzzles together is good fun, happy puzzle co and there is a real sense of satisfaction when the last lock clicks open.

For a hand-picked selection of Christmas games and stocking-filler puzzles for every age, browse the seasonal range at brain teaser puzzles.

For gift ideas sorted by age band, with the number of players and rough playing time listed for each, browse the games-by-age pages at puzzles and games.

To compare escape room games by difficulty and player count, and find one that suits your group, see the escape room range at puzzles and games.