Zoom has probably become your most-used app—besides Netflix and Hulu, of course—over the past year. Whether it's a meeting for work, a catch-up call with family, or a happy hour with your BFFs, we've all been using the video chatting service during coronavirus quarantine.
If you're like me, you have a specific night of the week you set aside for some one-on-one time with the people you care about the most. Sure, those first few minutes are probably great for catching up—but after some back-and-forth, the conversation dies down, and you and your Zoom backgrounds are left to look at each other. Therefore, to pass the time and so my friends don't have to hear me go on and on about The Queen's Gambit anymore, here are 10 games sure to inject some fun into your next virtual hangout.
Games You Can Easily Play Online
bingo
Matthew McConaughey might not be calling out the numbers, but don't let that stop you from playing. Using the website Bingo Maker, create a virtual game with as many players as you please. They all just have to have the password from you to log into the game. Best part? You can enjoy the game from any device, so if your laptop charger magically went missing before your call, don't sweat it.
"Tabletop Simulator"
Always wanted to create your board game but never had the tools? Same. Meet Tabletop Simulator, which boasts a library of classic thrills like Chess, Poker, Jigsaw Puzzles, and Dominoes while also giving you the option to create your game through its workshop tool. Just choose a game from their library, or come with your own and invite friends virtually using a handy-dandy link. All the fun happens on the site, so don't stress if your connection is lacking.
"Jackbox Games"
Purchase one of their party packs (some are on sale right now!) and enjoy a selection of games, ranging from ones that will test your artistic abilities to one that requires you to fill in the blanks. It's a lot of fun, and the games can quickly transfer to other gaming devices, like your Playstation or Nintendo Switch. Now all you have to do is make the hard decision of what game to play.
"Mafia"
If you have a larger group, Mafia might be the game for you. Developed by Russian psychology students, it's a complicated game that involves a high level of social deduction—but that's the fun of it. You split into two groups, the villagers and the werewolves (so, not the Mafia at all, confusingly), and each player is secretly affiliated with one of the two teams. Head on over to the site to get started.
"Quiplash"
Growing up, I spent hours filling out Mad Libs to recite to my mother in a fit of giggles. Now, thanks to JackBox Games, my childhood memories have grown up. Quiplash asks players to respond to prompts with the wittiest answers they can come up with; the group then votes on the best response. Up to eight players can play, but one person needs to own the online game so they can share the fun.
Guess Who?
This is a great family game because it's fun for people of all ages. Basically, you're assigned a character, and others have to guess who you are—the rules can differ a little depending on the size of the group and your preferences—using a series of "yes" or "no" questions. This is one that always leaves everyone laughing. Make sure no screens are shared, so it's fair gameplay.
Playing Cards
Classic games like Checkers, Go Fish, Crazy Eights, etc. are all available at the click of a mouse on PlayingGames.io. The website allows you to select a card game, invite as many people as you please to your link, and get ready to play. Best of all, it's free and requires no spotty screen sharing.
"Taboo"
Divide your Zoom party into two teams, take turns sharing screens, and choose someone each round to be clue-giver. This person will help their team guess the main word using one word at a time or by picking two words total from the list. Just make sure you don't say anything over Zoom except the words on your list!
"Psych"
Get everyone in your online party to download Psych, and let the fun begin. Each player makes up fake answers to real trivia questions, and it's your job to find out the real answer. It's from the same creators of Heads Up!, so you get an idea of what fun is in store. You'll be able to play over your phone for this one, so don't worry if your Zoom connection is lacking.
"Overcooked! 2"
Up to four players can try to serve diners in this virtual cooking game. It's a lot likeDiner Dash, where you seat customers, wait on, cook, and serve all kinds of guests but with weird twists. It's chaotic, fun, and will fill the void where dinner parties once stood.
"Skribbl"
Your 5th-grade art skills are put to the test in the free multiplayer game Skribbl. Create a private room with your party, choose a word from their list, and try your best to create a masterpiece in 80 seconds. As you sketch, players will type what they think you're drawing into the chat. The quicker a person guesses correctly, the more points they get.
