Print and Play (PnP) games are an amazing way to explore new titles while adding a personal touch to the creation process. This guide provides everything needed to get started with crafting Print and Play games.

PnP games offer an affordable solution for trying new titles without the expense of boxed versions, requiring only basic stationery found at home. They also unlock innovative ideas from independent designers who create unique, thought-provoking games.

Plus, assembling games with scissors and glue can be a rewarding and therapeutic activity, turning quiet afternoons into productive fun. For those looking for a more polished presentation, services like business pamphlet printing can be a great option to professionally produce game components.

Types of Print and Play Games

PnP games come in various forms, making them accessible to everyone. For beginners, simple projects like Utopia Engine are easy to tackle. This solo game fits on two sheets of paper, where players roll dice and write numbers to power up a world-saving device. Laminating the game allows for reusable gameplay with dry-erase markers, enhancing durability.

Where to find print and play games

To find PnP games, BoardGameGeek (BGG) is a top resource, hosting annual game design contests that produce creative new games, such as those in the 9-card or 18-card challenges. Other platforms like Itch.io, PnP Paradise, PnP Arcade, and DriveThruRPG also feature games from talented designers at affordable prices.

Tools and materials needed

Getting started with PnP is easy with just a printer and scissors, but a few extra tools can improve results:

1. A4 laminator: Adds durability and reusability to game components, especially for roll-and-write games.
2. Cutting board and craft knife: Provides clean, precise cuts for intricate designs.
3. PVA glue: Offers strong, long-lasting bonds for assembling boards and tokens.
4. Optional extras: Corner cutter: Creates polished, rounded edges for cards. Grayboard: A dense card material ideal for creating sturdy game boards.

For those looking for professional results, consider exploring commercial printing in Dubai for high-quality, precision-printed game components.

Making your own print and play games

Crafting game boards

To replicate the thicker, durable boards found in commercial games, use materials like grayboard or upcycle items such as delivery boxes or old board games. Print the board design, glue it onto the material, and laminate for added durability. If reusing existing boards, carefully attach the design while preserving features like folding hinges.

Creating playing cards

Cards can be printed on 200gsm cardstock, which works with most home printers. For extra durability and shuffle-ability, place the cards in sleeves. Alternatively, repurpose an old deck of playing cards by covering the original artwork with printed designs.

Tokens and standees

Sturdy card, such as the punchboard material in commercial games, works well for tokens and standees. Delivery boxes or leftover punchboard sections from other games can also be used. For better adhesion, remove glossy layers from the card before applying glue.

Step-by-step example: making butterfly effect

For the game Butterfly Effect by Birgit Röscheisen, a finalist in the BGG 2023 Solitaire Print and Play Contest:

1. Prepare the board: Smooth cardboard sides from a recycled box were cut into two pieces to create a folding board. The design was printed on A4 sheets, laminated, and glued to the cardboard. Masking tape was used as a hinge.
2. Make the cards: Double-sided cards were printed on 200gsm cardstock and sleeved to make shuffling easier.
3. Assemble components: The game required 26 cubes in five colors, sourced from an existing game.
4. Finishing touches: The board edges were cleaned up by folding and gluing extra border space around the back. The rules were printed into a booklet for easy learning during gameplay.

Print and Play games offer an affordable, hands-on way to explore unique titles and create something tangible. With a little effort and a few tools, PnP games bring engaging and creative gaming experiences to life — all from the comfort of home. Start crafting and discover the joy of Print and Play gaming!