You’ve heard it over and over. Even though we can’t be physically together as often, we can still find creative ways to stay connected. Platforms like Zoom, Facetime, HouseParty and Skype can transform family game night into a virtual affair. Whether across many miles or just across town, make a date with grandma, aunts, uncles, cousins and/or friends to play one of these fun, app-based games or break out an old-fashioned classic for a few hours of socially-distant family fun.
Here are some family games that are well-suited to play virtually:
- Charades – This classic requires no explanation but is sure to provide lots of laughter and fun.
- Bingo – Amp up the fun with prizes!
- Guess the song – Hum a tune and everyone has to guess what song it is. Or read lyrics without a tune.
- PlayingCards.io – Invite friends to play board games and card games like checkers, go fish, crazy eights and anything else that uses a standard 52-card deck—all online. It’s easy to play and no download is required.
- Jackbox Games – Jackbox offers a variety of games that can be played on your TV, computer or mobile device. Play titles such as Drawful, Fibbage and Word Spud. Games are rated for teens but have a family mode that is best suited for ages 10 & up.
- Exploding Kittens – The popular card game is now available in an app, for both Apple and Android users. For $1.99, the silly, easy-to-play game has a single-player and multi-play mode.
- Clue: The Classic Mystery Game – The classic board game is now available online for $3.99 in the App Store or on Google Play. Players follow the same strategies in this digital whodunnit remake, playing with friends online.
- Mario Kart Tour – You and up to seven friends can zoom around courses inspired by real-world locations. It’s available for free on the App Store or Google Play. However, players need to create a Nintendo account to play.
- Heads Up via Houseparty – Houseparty, a face-to-face social network, has built-in games users can play together. There are three, themed versions of Heads Up, plus trivia and Chips and Guac, a wordplay game where the silliest association is usually the winner.
- Trivia – Read off trivia cards from Trivial Pursuit. Make it fun by adding your own sound to buzz in, the first sound gets to answer first!
- Yahtzee – Round up your dice and scorecards and see who has the hottest hand!
Got a family game you love to play virtually not listed here? Let us know by emailing us at tips@metrofamilymagazine.com!
