Uncertainty is a core aspect of games; it shapes gameplay dynamics and influences players’ experiences. Several dimensions of uncertainty have been studied, such as its relation to player engagement and motivation, sources, levels, and degrees. However, the relationship of uncertainty with effort and emotions that emerge as players navigate unpredictable game states remains underexplored. This study employs a qualitative methodology with eight players to examine the association between uncertainty and effort-emotion duo, analyzing two tabletop games, “Splendor” and “Azul.” Based on collected data, we introduce adverb-verb phrases to capture players’ emotions and mental exertions. Since uncertainty is a pervasive element in gameplay, it is challenging to attribute a particular emotion or the nature of mental effort solely to a specific kind of uncertainty. Hence, we group it into three distinct yet interconnected categories: continuous uncertainty, stage-specific uncertainty, and cumulative uncertainty. Our findings indicate that player emotions and efforts in tabletop games are neither static nor predictable based on game outcomes alone. Instead, they exhibit dynamic trajectories, fluctuating in response to the changing uncertainties. By highlighting the associations between uncertainty, effort, and emotion, this study offers a granular understanding of player experiences, underscoring the necessity of considering these elements in game design and analysis.