Jigsaw Puzzle vs. Puzzle Games

Whether you’re hosting friends and family, it’s a rainy evening, or you simply have the desire to have a date night in, game nights are an enjoyable form of entertainment that can include multiple people. Various gaming options are available on the market, but each comes with its own set of rules. 

One of our favorite games to bring to the table is the game of puzzles–specifically jigsaw puzzles. It can be challenging to pick the right option from board games to a jigsaw puzzle vs. regular puzzles, though.

So, let’s break down the differences between jigsaw puzzles vs. puzzles vs. games. 

What is the Difference Between Games & Puzzles?

Games, in general, have a specific set of rules with an intentional end, in which two or more players compete against one another. Puzzling games, on the other hand, usually involve one or more individuals attempting to solve a puzzle and, in a sense, competing against the maker of the puzzle. There aren’t usually specific rules to follow when playing games with puzzles unless guidelines have been set up for multiple participants. 

Puzzles are often referred to as “solitaire games” because they can be played alone, while a traditional game usually requires a minimum of two people. While puzzles can be played solo, multiple people can participate as well.

A Puzzle vs. Jigsaw Puzzle

A puzzle is a broader category of puzzle games, including jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, matchsticks, and more. A jigsaw puzzle is an interlocking puzzle that involves piecing together and connecting smaller sections to form one large image.  

What is a Jigsaw Puzzle vs Puzzle Game?

Puzzle games and jigsaw puzzles are both types of puzzles, but they differ in several ways. Puzzling games refer to any type of game that involves solving puzzles, typically through logic and problem-solving skills. Examples of puzzle games include Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and brain teasers. These games may or may not involve physical pieces, and can be played alone or with others.

On the other hand, jigsaw puzzles specifically refer to puzzles that involve assembling a picture by interlocking various shaped pieces. Jigsaw puzzles require players to use spatial reasoning skills and visual processing to match the shapes and colors of the pieces to complete the image. They are typically completed alone or in small groups and often involve physically manipulating the puzzle pieces.

In Summary

The broader category of games usually has a particular set of rules with a specific outcome, that often involves two or more individuals competing against one another. Jigsaw puzzles and puzzle games can be played solo or in a group. While both puzzle games and jigsaw puzzles require critical thinking skills, they offer different types of challenges and experiences. Puzzle games can be more abstract and varied in their challenges, while jigsaw puzzles offer a more tactile and visual experience.