Upgrade Your Game Night: Top Must-Have Board Game Accessories

Best Board Game Accessories That Are Totally Worth the Money

Board games are already a glorious rabbit hole, but accessories? That’s a whole other level of geeky delight. Whether it’s about pimping your setup, protecting your precious components, or just making life easier during a 12-hour Twilight Imperium session, there are some upgrades out there that are absolutely worth dropping a few gold coins on.

The Personal Power-Up: Twilight Imperium Edition

I’ll never forget the day I spent my tax return on board game bling. My target? Twilight Imperium — the sprawling space opera of a game I cherish more than my own kitchen table. First up: a Folded Space insert for about $80. That thing changed how quickly we set up and packed down.

But I wasn’t done. I went full space-nerd and ordered a custom eight-player neoprene mat from a guy in Spain (thank you, Etsy). It cost more than the base game. Worth it? Oh yes. Every time we play, I’m reminded why I went that far.

Inserts: Game-Changers for Setup and Sanity

Whether you’re buying from a brand like Folded Space or going DIY with foamcore and glue, a good insert is like a magical wardrobe for your components. Suddenly, instead of bags and chaos, everything has a home. Bonus points if it’s modular and works with expansions.

And if you’re crafty? Foamcore + PVA glue + Stanley knife = a custom insert masterpiece. One of our writers even made their own from scratch for Flamme Rouge, and it's still holding strong years later.

Game Mats: The Underestimated MVP

If you’ve ever tried picking up a card from a wooden table, you know the pain. Neoprene mats solve that instantly. A three-millimeter-thick stitched mat doesn’t just protect your cards, it turns your table into a card-sliding dreamscape.

And sure, custom mats are cool — but even a generic galaxy-themed mat makes Gloomhaven feel a little more... epic. Bonus: they help with dice rolling too. No more runaway crits under the couch.

Bowls, Bags & Bit Holders

Don’t underestimate a good token bowl. From IKEA toddler snack containers to 3D printed magnetic bowls (yes, really), keeping your tokens in easy reach keeps the game flowing.

Got a laser cutter at your school or a friend with access? Get creative with cork coasters that double as holders. Or go full DIY and upcycle cereal boxes — there are templates online that’ll turn your trash into token treasure.

Sleeves, Capsules & Component Protection

Card sleeves are one of those love-hate things. Sure, they protect your cards, but they’re not cheap. Personally, I only sleeve games I know I’ll keep forever. (Looking at you, Blood Rage.)

Now let’s talk coin capsules. Ever played Quacks of Quedlinburg until your tokens started shedding ink like a bad Sharpie? Pop those suckers into cheap coin capsules and boom — durability + satisfying clink. Bonus: they make your tokens feel like real currency.

Bags, Boxes & Battle Stations

Transporting your board game collection doesn’t have to be a back-breaking juggling act. A dedicated board game bag is high on my wishlist — something that can handle 6+ standard-sized boxes and still fit on my back.

If you want to go full legendary-tier accessory, we have to talk about board game tables. Yep, the ones that double as dining tables with hidden compartments and built-in cup holders. Are they expensive? Heck yes. Do I want one more than a new TV? Also yes.

We played TI on one recently — shoutout to GameWay — and it was everything. The built-in mat, the storage space, the prestige. It elevated the whole experience.

3D Printing and Maker Magic

If you’ve got a 3D printer (or know someone who does), the world of custom accessories is your oyster. Think token trays, modular storage, even card stands. And if you don’t? Public libraries and maker spaces often have printers you can use for free or cheap.

There’s also a thriving community online — from Reddit to Thingiverse — sharing free STL files for inserts and upgrades galore.

So What's Actually Worth It?

Start small. If you love a game, trick it out. Mats, inserts, sleeves, and bowls make a huge difference in how smooth and enjoyable your game nights are.

It’s easy to go overboard (hello, $120 mat), but a few smart purchases can turn your favorite game into a centerpiece experience.

So, what board game accessories are worth your hard-earned gold? The ones that you’ll use, that solve an actual problem, or just make your table look extra slick. Whether it’s a custom mat from Spain or a cereal box token tray — it’s all part of the love we pour into this hobby.

Level up your tabletop adventures with more geeky guides at Land of Geek Magazine!

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