Board Games
Board games are making a comeback, and not just for children ages 10-14. A few of the many favorites include Monopoly, Scrabble, Clue, Chess, Checkers, Scattergories, and Life. Most merry board games are for two or more players. But alternatives, such as an electronic chessboard, let you can play a computer and you don't need a human partner.
Thrift stores are a good place to look for inexpensive board games. You can also purchase them new in most bookstores, or new or used online.
Computer Games
Almost any of the previously mentioned games can be played on a computer. Check online for people to play games with. Some games played electronically last for days or weeks, so you can play the game on your lunch break and then come back to it after dinner.
Games that are designed for computer play range from life-stimulation games such as The Sims to a couple of old favorites that almost every computer has, Solitaire and Minesweeper.
Card Games
Card games are popular for a reason. They are compact, they're usually painless to learn, they can be played almost anywhere, and cards are inexpensive (and most times they can be borrowed). So if you are seated on a plane, in the car, or at your dining room table, cards are the game for you. Some examples of well-known card games include Go Fish, Crazy Eights and poker.
Video Games
Over the years, video games have changed. Now you can do almost anything using gaming equipment, from playing professional football to boxing in the center ring, all in the privacy of your own home and without breaking bones. Although some systems are expensive, most have a warranty. If you are technologically savvy at all, grabbing one from a thrift store and fixing it yourself might save you a hundred dollars or so.