The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word JACKSTRAW
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
J
A
C
K
S
T
R
A
W
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "a bit of a game" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case a bit of a game = jackstraw.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does JACKSTRAW mean?
JACKSTRAW noun- (usually plural) One of the pieces used for the game variously called jackstraws or pick-up-sticks.
- An insignificant person.
- Resembling a bundle of jackstraws that has been strewn on a surface.
- (of a person) Of no substance or worth.