Top Gaming Picks for Family & Friends Game Night
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When was the last time you intentionally carved out a corner of your busy life for pure fun? Amidst your busy schedule (and everyone else’s), it might require a touch of planning, but imagine setting aside an evening, stowing phones away, and creating new memories full of connection, laughter, and maybe some healthy competition! Whether you want to bring your inner circle together or do something different on date night, I’ve got suggestions for you!
Best played with: Family & Friends (4-12 players)
How to play: Combine drawing, guessing, and telephone in Telestrations. Begin with a word or phrase, draw it, and then pass the drawing to the next player, who guesses what it is. As the cycle repeats, witness how the original prompt evolves into delightful chaos, showcasing the humor in misinterpretation. P.S. There is also an adult version of this game available.
Best played with: Family & Friends (4-8 players)
How to play: Codenames is a riveting word game where players split into two teams and take turns giving one-word clues to help their teammates guess the words on the grid that correspond to their color. The twist lies in avoiding the opposing team's words and the perilous assassin. It's a game that tests your ability to make connections and keeps the energy high with strategic tension. Check out the classic version or its many other versions available (Disney, Harry Potter, or Adult, to name a few).
Best played with: Date (2 players)
How to play: As you might guess, this is a version of the classic Codenames games adapted for two players! You are working as a team, rather than against each other, using a single-word clue and a number, aiming to uncover as many agents as possible without stumbling upon the opposing team's words or the assassin.
Where Should We Begin - A Game of Stories
Best played with: Date or Family & Friends (2-6 players)
How to play: Open up meaningful conversation with these carefully curated prompts by psychotherapist and New York Times Bestselling Author Esther Perel. This stylish deck promises to unlock a spectrum of emotions, sparking not only moments of shared laughter but also fostering an environment of authentic vulnerability. These cards facilitate deepening connections, whether with familiar faces or new acquaintances.
Best played with: Date or Family & Friends (2-5 players)
How to play: Sushi Go! is a delightful and fast-paced card game that invites players to create their own delectable sushi meals by drafting and passing cards. Players aim to assemble the most tempting combination of sushi dishes for the highest score. The game's compact size, simple rules, and charming artwork make it not only easy to learn but also enjoyable for players of all ages!
More Likely To
Best played with: Partner (2 players)
How to play: In this lighthearted yet revealing activity, partners secretly jot down on paper who they believe is more likely to perform various actions or scenarios. Think “Who is more likely to plan a spontaneous road trip without any prior notice?” or “Who is more likely to try exotic foods without hesitation?” You can choose from any of the infinite lists on the internet. Then, when you’re both ready, reveal your answers simultaneously. This simple game leads to funny surprises and offers a window into each other's perceptions.
St. Noire (powered by Alexa)
Best played with: Date or Family & Friends (1+ players)
How to play: Here’s a contemporary twist on the timeless Clue board game, infused with a touch of technological innovation. Immerse yourself in a murder mystery brought to life by the voice of Alexa, lending a cinematic allure with narration and sound. Enjoy the moody setting including dive bars and jazz clubs, which might even inspire you to host a themed dress-code night. As you unravel cryptic clues, interrogate suspects, and navigate a web of truths and deception, race to unveil the killer's identity before the clock runs out.
Best played with: Partner (2 players)
How to play: This top-rated deck of 200 cards contains the perfect balance of provocative questions to guess and fun challenges to perform with your partner (not a first date). Elevate your date night, as your conversation and activities are guided through a series of entertaining prompts, leading you to explore exciting territories you may not have otherwise ventured into.
DIY Trivia Night
Best played with: Family or Friends (3+ players)
How to play: Take some prep time to craft tailor-made trivia questions that span shared interests, historical anecdotes, and pop culture references. You can even mix in questions about the people present! This personalized touch adds extra excitement to your game night and guarantees a dynamic atmosphere and a surge of competitive camaraderie.
Best played with: Family or friends (2-10 players, depending on the game)
How to play: OK, screens are required, but here is a platform with a wide variety of super fun, interactive game packs available to play using your desktop, laptop, gaming console, or smart TV. Each player uses their phone to submit their answers, which will then appear on the main screen for all to see. From trivia to quick drawings to wordplay, Jackbox Games are a sure hit!
Let the games begin!
xx, Danae