Quick answer
The board game accessories worth buying are those that solve a specific problem—like flimsy components, hard-to-read pieces, or slow setup. Metal coins, acrylic tiles, and custom dice sets often deliver the biggest improvement for the price. Skip generic accessories that don't match your most-played games.
What makes an accessory worth it?
A good accessory fixes something that bothers you during play. If cardboard tokens slide around or wear out fast, metal coins or plastic tiles are a clear upgrade. If you're happy with the base components, save your money. The best board game extras are the ones you'll use every time you play.
Fit is also key. An accessory only helps if it's compatible with your game. For example, the Roll Player: 60 Metal Coins are designed to replace the cardboard tokens in Roll Player and Roll Player Adventures, but they work with any game that uses coin denominations. That flexibility makes them a stronger buy than a game-specific accessory you can only use in one title.
Roll Player Adventures
When to upgrade components vs. buy new pieces
Component upgrades—like metal coins or acrylic tiles—change how the game feels in your hands. They add weight and durability. New pieces, like split dice or custom miniatures, can add new gameplay options if your game supports them. The Roll Player - Split Dice (Fiends & Familiars), for instance, let you create a copy of the Fiends & Familiars expansion using print-and-play files, giving you fresh content without buying a full box.
If you're choosing between the two, start with upgrades for games you play most. A premium set of coins or tiles will enhance every session. New pieces are a better choice when you want variety in a specific game you already love.
How to decide: three rules for buying accessories
- Rule 1: Solve a real annoyance: Only buy an accessory if it fixes something that bothers you—like slippery tokens, hard-to-read dice, or slow setup. If the base game works fine, skip the upgrade. Don't buy upgrades for games you rarely play.
- Rule 2: Check compatibility first: Make sure the accessory fits your game. Metal coins work across many titles, but acrylic tiles are often game-specific. Read the product details to avoid a mismatch. A compatible accessory is always a better value than a universal one that doesn't fit.
- Rule 3: Prioritize frequency of use: Spend on accessories for games that hit the table often. A premium upgrade for a weekly favorite pays off more than a novelty piece for a game you play once a year. Invest in the games you play most.
Accessories that deliver real value
- Roll Player: 60 Metal Coins: 60 metal coins across 2 denominations, designed to replace the cardboard coin tokens in Roll Player or Roll Player Adventures. Coins are 2.0 mm thick and collectively weigh 0.44 lbs. Metal coins are heavier and more satisfying to handle than cardboard tokens. They also last longer and work with many other games, making them a versatile upgrade.
- Lockup: Plastic Crew Tile Set: Replaces 35 cardboard crew tiles from Lockup and the Breakout expansion with durable acrylic plastic tiles. Acrylic tiles resist wear and look sharper on the table. If you play Lockup often, this set gives your components a premium feel without buying a new game.
- Roll Player - Split Dice (Fiends & Familiars): 15 split dice to use with print-and-play files for Roll Player: Fiends & Familiars, or for any other gaming needs. These dice let you add expansion content at a low cost. They're also useful as generic dice for other games, but you need the print-and-play files to get the full expansion experience.
Who should buy board game accessories?
Best for
- Players who want to improve the tactile feel of their most-played games
- Collectors who value durable, premium components that last through many sessions
Not for
- Players who are happy with standard cardboard components
- Anyone on a tight budget who would rather spend on new games instead
