Difficulty varies a lot, so read the age guidance and the suggested group size. A game aimed at families with younger children keeps the clues fairer and the reading lighter, while a harder title will have adults scratching their heads. Working through the puzzles together is good fun, and there is a real sense of satisfaction when the last lock clicks open.

For a hand-picked selection of brain teasers across easy, medium and fiendish levels, have a look at the adult puzzle range at puzzle games for adults.

The image matters as much as the count. Scenes with plenty of variety, such as busy street scenes or landscapes with lots of colour, give you clear areas to work on and tend to feel achievable. Puzzles that are all one colour, or that repeat a pattern, are far harder because you cannot rely on the picture, so save those for someone who likes a proper challenge.

To compare word games by pace and age suitability, happypuzzle.co.uk and see which reward speed versus vocabulary, take a look at the word games at brain teaser puzzles.

These games are a good pick if you want screen-free play that travels well and does not need a long rulebook. You can compare the full Genius line-up and read how each version plays at games for children.

For a hand-picked selection of Christmas games and stocking-filler puzzles for every age, browse the seasonal range at outdoor garden games.