Few things beat an evening of games with good friends. The right game gets everyone talking, laughing and planning their next move. The wrong one leaves half the table bored. Here’s how to pick board games to play with friends, with ideas for different kinds of groups and tips for hosting a great game night.
Know your group
Every friend group is different. Before choosing a game, think about:
- Group size. Some games shine with three or four players; others need six or more.
- Experience. Are your friends regular gamers or complete beginners?
- Mood. Do they want to laugh, think hard or work together?
- Time. Is this a quick game before dinner or the main event of the evening?
Party games for big, lively groups
Party games are easy to learn and focus on laughter. They usually involve guessing, drawing, bluffing or quick reactions. They’re ideal when you have a big group or friends who don’t usually play games. See our guide to board games that will keep your friends guessing for word and guessing game ideas.
Cooperative games for friendly groups
In cooperative games, everyone plays together against the game. They’re great for groups who don’t enjoy direct competition, and they let experienced players help newcomers without spoiling the fun.
Community Garden leans in this friendly direction. Players gather resources such as water and compost and play crop cards to grow their gardens, while also helping fellow players get the resources and tools they need. It’s a relaxed choice for a mixed group.
Themed games for fans
If your friends share a favorite series, a themed game can be a big hit. Sci-fi fans who love the Mass Effect video games may enjoy Mass Effect: Priority Hagalaz, in which players lead Shepard’s squad through a crashed Cerberus research cruiser on the planet Hagalaz. A familiar story makes it easier for new players to get into the game.
Strategy games for thinkers
Friends who enjoy planning and outsmarting each other will love strategy games. These usually take longer and have more rules, so they’re best for smaller groups of regular players. Our list of strategy board games is a good starting point, and our Catan strategy guide helps you improve at a modern classic.
Mystery and deduction games
Mystery games ask players to gather clues and solve a puzzle. They’re great for friends who enjoy a challenge. Read five mystery board games to spice up game nights for ideas.
How to host a great game night
Pick the game in advance
Choose one main game and one backup. Learn the rules before your friends arrive.
Teach it simply
Explain the goal first, then how a turn works. Save rare rules for when they come up.
Set the table
Clear space, add good lighting and keep drinks on a side table to protect the cards.
Plan snacks
Finger foods that don’t leave greasy fingers are best. Popcorn, pretzels and veggies work well.
Keep it fun
Let new players ask questions and take back mistakes. The goal is a good night, not a perfect game.
Building a game collection for friends
If you host often, aim for a small, varied collection: one party game, one cooperative game, one strategy game and one quick filler. That covers most groups and moods.
Games for two friends
Not every game night needs a crowd. When it’s just you and one friend, choose games built for two or games that still play well at that count. Card games, abstract strategy games and two-player cooperative games are all good options. Our list of board games you can play with 2 players has plenty of ideas. A small game you can carry in a bag also makes coffee-shop and travel meetups more fun.
FAQ
What’s the best type of game for a big group of friends?
Party games that use teams or allow many players. They’re easy to learn and keep everyone involved.
What if some friends don’t like competitive games?
Try a cooperative game, where everyone wins or loses together.
How long should a game night last?
Two to three hours is typical. Plan one longer game or several short ones.
How do I teach a new game quickly?
Explain the goal, walk through one turn and start playing. Answer questions as they come up.
Should we play the same game every week?
It helps at first, because everyone learns the rules. Once the group is comfortable, rotate games to keep things fresh and let different friends pick.
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