Considering we are now more connected than ever before, there is no reason to have to miss out on games night or pub quizzes with your friends. No matter where you are in the world, you can log in and hang out with your nearest and dearest in a whole bunch of online games.
If you are looking for something to do with your friends, here are the best online games to play that require barely any set-up and provide hours of fun.
Virtual escape rooms
Escape rooms have become one of the most popular group games of late. You and your friends get locked in a room together and have to work out puzzles, find clues, and try to find a way to escape.
Nowadays, there are many online escape rooms suitable for groups of two to 10, even fifteen people. Multiple websites also give you all the tools you need to create your own clues and escape rooms.
There are also some made for two people to play simultaneously, where you aren’t able to escape the room if you don’t work together. There are also multiple time and difficulty levels, allowing you to play a quick 15-minute game or a much more in-depth 4-5 hour game.
Board games
No matter which board game you like, you are definitely able to find an online game version. From Monopoly to Settlers of Catan, you can play with and against your friends, or if they aren’t available, you can play against others that are online.
What makes it more fun is that many of these board game websites allow for Skype or Zoom connectivity, meaning you can hang out with your friends online and chat while you play. The games are also not limited to the traditional versions, with multiple types like speed rounds, teams, and anything else you can think of for a custom game.
There are even bespoke games such as OutSmarted that was created for just these purposes following all the turmoil that was brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Virtual game shows
Many websites and tools are available that allow you to bring a game show right into your home. The sites will provide you with topics, questions, round types, and everything else you may need to run a great game show.
One player can act as the game show host they have always wanted to be, asking questions, handing out points and prizes, and leading the game for everyone else.
One particular online game series for these styles of games we highly recommend is the Jackbox Party Games. They’re great fun, offer a variety of different games, and often get everyone in fits of giggles. We even reviewed the latest instalment, Jackbox Party Pack 8.
Online pub quizzes
Pub quizzes have always been one of the best group game activities you can do. Whether playing as a team or playing against each other. If you’re struggling to think up questions or topics, the internet can make it happen once again.
Many quiz websites will have video capabilities and countdown timers, meaning you can all join in on a call and play at the same time.
We even host our own sometimes, so come join us on our Discord server if you ever want to get involved with some of our online games.
Outburst
If you have watched an episode of Family Feud, then Outburst will be very familiar to you. To play, all you’ll need is a video calling app like Zoom or Skype, and a copy of the online game. You can play with as few as 4 players, or as many as 10.
The goal of the game is to name 10 terms associated with a particular phrase or question as fast as you can. “Things you would buy for a party” could be met with “cake”, “balloons”, and “presents”. Teams are mixed and matched every round, with the team with the most points at the end of the game being declared the winner.
Code names
Code Names is an exciting and high-speed game that is great for two teams. One person on each team is designated as the secret agent. The agent’s goal is to get all the members on their team to correctly guess all the code name cards they have been given.
The game is a combination of Pictionary and 30 Seconds, meaning you aren’t only trying to guess all of the words but do it quicker than your opponents.
Why not let us know some of the games you enjoy playing online with your friends and family in the comments below. If you can’t think of any right now, you can check out more opinion pieces like this by clicking HERE whilst you have a think about what games you enjoy.
