Minigames: Which Are Actually Fun?
Introduction
Minigames are short, often simple games embedded within larger video games or standalone experiences. They serve as a break from the main gameplay, offering quick entertainment, rewards, or even skill-building opportunities. However, not all minigames are created equal—some are forgettable distractions, while others become fan favorites.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes a minigame truly enjoyable, highlight some of the best examples across gaming history, and discuss why certain minigames stand out while others fade into obscurity.
What Makes a Minigame Fun?
Before diving into specific examples, let’s identify the key elements that make a minigame engaging:
- Simplicity & Accessibility – The best minigames are easy to pick up but hard to master. They don’t require extensive tutorials.
- Rewards & Incentives – Whether it's in-game currency, power-ups, or unlockables, good minigames offer meaningful rewards.
- Variety & Replayability – A great minigame remains fun even after multiple plays, often due to randomness or increasing difficulty.
- Integration with the Main Game – The best minigames feel like a natural extension of the core experience rather than a forced addition.
Now, let’s look at some standout minigames that excel in these areas.
Top Minigames That Are Actually Fun
1. Gwent (The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt)
Why It’s Fun:
- A fully fleshed-out card game with deep strategy.
- Collectible cards scattered across the world encourage exploration.
- Standalone versions (like Thronebreaker) prove its lasting appeal.
Tags: #CardGame #Strategy #RPG
2. Blitzball (Final Fantasy X)
Why It’s Fun:
- A mix of soccer and underwater strategy.
- Recruitable team members add depth.
- Optional but rewarding for those who invest time.
Tags: #Sports #RPG #TurnBased
3. Triple Triad (Final Fantasy VIII)
Why It’s Fun:
- Simple rules with surprising depth.
- Card collecting and regional rule variations keep it fresh.
- Winning rare cards feels incredibly satisfying.
Tags: #CardGame #Nostalgia #JRPG
4. Fishing (Stardew Valley)
Why It’s Fun:
- A relaxing yet skill-based activity.
- Different fish types and seasons add variety.
- Essential for completing the Community Center.
Tags: #Relaxing #FarmingSim #SkillBased
5. Poker (Red Dead Redemption 2)
Why It’s Fun:
- Authentic Wild West poker experience.
- NPC interactions make it immersive.
- A great way to earn in-game money.
Tags: #Gambling #OpenWorld #Immersion
6. Chao Garden (Sonic Adventure 2)
Why It’s Fun:
- Raise and evolve creatures with unique stats.
- Racing and battling add competitive elements.
- A surprisingly deep side activity in a fast-paced game.
Tags: #VirtualPet #Sonic #Nostalgia
7. Lockpicking (The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim)
Why It’s Fun:
- A tactile, skill-based minigame.
- Rewards patience and precision.
- Feels rewarding when you crack a master lock.
Tags: #Stealth #RPG #SkillBased
Minigames That Miss the Mark
Not all minigames are winners. Some suffer from:
- Repetitiveness – Like Mako Reactor (Final Fantasy VII), which feels tedious.
- Poor Controls – QTE-based minigames that rely too much on button mashing.
- Lack of Incentive – Some minigames offer no meaningful rewards, making them feel like filler.
Why Do Some Minigames Become More Popular Than the Main Game?
In rare cases, minigames overshadow their parent games. Examples include:
- Gwent – Became so popular that CD Projekt Red released a standalone version.
- Tetris (From Puyo Puyo Tetris) – Originally a minigame-like concept that became a global phenomenon.
This happens when:
- The minigame has strong core mechanics.
- It offers endless replayability.
- It stands alone without needing the main game’s context.
Conclusion
The best minigames enhance the gaming experience by offering variety, challenge, and meaningful rewards. Whether it’s the strategic depth of Gwent, the nostalgic charm of Chao Garden, or the immersive poker games in Red Dead Redemption 2, great minigames leave a lasting impression.
What’s your favorite minigame? Let us know in the comments!
Tags: #Gaming #Minigames #FunGames #VideoGames #RetroGaming
