6 Game Night Ideas to Elevate Your Evening
Game night has been a thing since like ever! Now, in more recent times game nights are super popular. This is a fun and interactive night where friends, family or all of the above gets together to play games. With that being said, there are constant companies popping out games for consumers to pick up and buy. This can be overwhelming because some may look promising but be confusing as ever with vague directions. I know the frustration of trying to find the perfect games to play. Don’t fret, you are alone!
I, myself have hosted some game nights with loved ones in light of our current situation as a nation. This is a good way to safely social distance with your immediate circle but still feel socially active. So with that being said I’ve played my fair share of board games and video games that can be a fun alternative to just sulking in sadness. Investing in getting some games is ideal so you can host game nights that are worthwhile and fun for all! Games do not have to be expensive and the more interactive, the better! So let’s dive into these game night ideas!
1. Have Good Food
Food is a big part of game night because who doesn’t like eating good food. Taking time to plan your menu can elevate the night even more. If aren’t naturally a cooker, you can ask a friend or family member who is. Usually, people opt for easy-to-order food like pizza but having something can be a bit more special. Instead of ordering pizza, make a homemade pizza! You can specialize them into what your guest prefers and show them that you are invested into the night and their fun
If you do go with ordering food just make sure it is good quality and reputable. Trying to order from a new place can be tricky because you won’t know if they are good or not according to your taste. This is where yelp or asking someone comes into play! Don’t be afraid to read reviews good or bad. Ask a friend have they had their food, the more you know the better! Add some good drinks and appetizers to the mix. Some simple finger foods will do just fine! Try to avoid food that is messy and a hassle to clean up!
2. Have Good Games
Having a good board game can bring out the laughter, competitive and fun side of your guest. We all know the OG board games like Monopoly and Sorry but new games have arrived! Games like What Do You Meme? And Inglewoodopoly are dominating the game nights. They are because they relate to the current times and vibes. These are relatable and play on pop culture while the OGs bring a nostalgia factor.
What Do You Meme uses memes from social media to be paired with the best caption by 1 of 7 players. This game is a hit and my family and I play this all the time. It is sure to bring out laughter and competitive efforts. I highly recommend this game!
3. Place Friendly Bets
This is a great way to make the stakes a little higher and have your company participate even further! You don’t, I repeat, you don’t have to place money bets! This aspect can get messy and possibly cause disputes that unnecessary. Do bets like for food or drinks, rides to where ever you want, or getting items you want. This keeps the game at a friendly level without placing strain on anyone particular person.Â
Maybe you place a bet with your friend about whoever gets the first meme card, they’ll get drinks from the other for free next time at the club. Remind everyone to keep the environment friendly and stay true to the bets they make!
4. Invite Fun People
 This one is crucial to everyone’s fun and the success of your night! One bad apple can ruin the bunch! This means on person can ruin the night for everyone by doing something(s) bad. I’ve heard of people’s nights going so bad because one person was too intoxicated or someone invited an outsider that no one really knew.Â
Its important to know who is a good source of fun and can handle themselves responsibly in front of yourself and others. If you need to, place a restriction on the number of people invited. Make it an exclusive invite to keep good vibes flowing and bad sides from showing!
5. Have A Loose ItineraryÂ
This is good so that you won’t spend too much time on one game. That can get really boring! Having a specific time dedicated to games keeps the vibes flowing and people from snoozing at your game night! This also allows everyone to have a chance at winning a game or two. If the same game that one person is good at keeps being played then everyone else feels jaded and looses interest.
Keeping your schedule loose also allows unexpected things to be able to flow. That is usually when the most fun happens, after flowing on a routine something happens and you end up on another track of fun. Being too scheduled could also take away from the fun. It’s not meant to be a class meeting, but fun. Keep the itinerary in the back of your mind in case you hit a snag in plans.
6. Make It A Sleepover!
This is a great idea for game nights that involve alcohol! You want everyone to be safe and sound, so having a sleepover would be a wise choice. Granted this requires preparation so do that in advance. By sleeping over, no one has to worry about time or other factors in making it home afterward.
Preplan how you can set up places to sleep and accommodate your company. Have some extra blankets or let them know in advance to bring their necessary essentials. Limit your number of guests to your special accommodation and have some fun!
