Virtual game nights have become a popular way to stay connected with friends, no matter the distance.
With the right apps, you can enjoy everything from trivia and drawing games to party-style challenges.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 apps that make hosting a fun and interactive game night easy and exciting.
Houseparty
Houseparty is a social video chat app that offers built-in games, allowing friends to play together while staying connected in real-time.
Key Features
- Group video calls with up to 8 participants
- Built-in games like Heads Up, Trivia, and Chips and Guac
- Easy-to-use interface for instant group chats and game access
- Notifications when friends are online, making it simple to join a game
- Private rooms for secure and exclusive hangouts
Pros:
- Easy to use with a simple, intuitive interface
- Built-in games that add fun and variety to video calls
- Free to use with no hidden charges
- Real-time notifications make it easy to catch up with friends
- Supports up to 8 people in a video chat
Cons:
- Limited variety of games compared to other platforms
- Privacy concerns, with potential for data exposure
- Requires a stable internet connection for smooth gameplay
- Some users experience glitches or lag during calls
Jackbox Party Pack
Jackbox Party Pack is a collection of party games that can be played on any device with one person hosting and others joining via their phones or tablets.
Key Features:
- Multiple game packs with popular games like Quiplash and Fibbage
- Players use smartphones or tablets as controllers
- Supports 3-8 players with interactive content
- Only one person needs to buy the game pack
- Quick and easy setup
Pros:
- Wide selection of games for all tastes
- Fun and interactive, ideal for groups
- No downloads needed for participants
- Perfect for casual, humorous settings
Cons:
- One person must purchase the game pack
- Some games require quick thinking or creativity
- Limited player count per game
- Not all games may appeal to everyone
Scribble & Guess: IO Game
Scribble & Guess: IO Game is a free multiplayer drawing and guessing game where players take turns drawing a word for others to guess quickly.
Key Features:
- Free to play with no registration required
- Customizable word lists or use default words
- Supports private rooms for friends to play together
- Simple and fun gameplay with no download needed
- Easy-to-understand interface
Pros:
- Completely free and accessible in a web browser
- Quick and easy to play, no complicated rules
- Customizable game settings
- Great for all ages and quick sessions
Cons:
- Basic graphics may not appeal to everyone
- Limited game modes and customization options
- Can become repetitive with frequent play
Among Us
Among Us is a multiplayer game where players work on a spaceship, with some impostors sabotaging the mission while others try to identify them.
Key Features:
- Online multiplayer for 4-10 players
- Players are assigned roles as Crewmates or Impostors
- Includes tasks for Crewmates to complete while trying to avoid the Impostors
- In-game voice chat or text chat for discussions and voting
- Different maps with unique challenges
Pros:
- Fun and engaging social deduction gameplay
- Easy to learn with simple mechanics
- Great for group play and voice chat interaction
- Regular updates and new features
Cons:
- Can be confusing or overwhelming for new players
- Matches can take a while, especially with larger groups
- Impostor gameplay can lead to frustration or arguments in some groups
Tabletopia
Tabletopia is a virtual platform offering a wide range of board games for interactive online play.
Key Features:
- Wide selection of board games to choose from
- Realistic, interactive tabletop experience
- Allows private or public games with friends or strangers
- Supports cross-platform play (PC, Mac, iOS, Android)
- Includes detailed game rules and tutorials
Pros:
- Extensive library of board games
- Easy-to-use interface with a realistic feel
- No need for physical board game pieces
- Great for groups looking for diverse game options
- Regularly updated with new games
Cons:
- Some games require a premium subscription
- Can be difficult to navigate for new users
- Requires a stable internet connection for smooth play
- Some games have complex setups and longer learning curves
Pogo
Pogo is an online gaming platform offering a wide range of classic card and board games for multiplayer play.
Key Features:
- Classic card and board games like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Solitaire
- Multiplayer options for social play
- Free-to-play with the option for premium memberships
- Simple interface for easy navigation
- Regular updates and seasonal events
Pros:
- Large variety of games for all ages
- Easy to use and accessible
- Great for casual gaming with friends
- Offers both solo and multiplayer modes
Cons:
- Ad-supported, which can disrupt gameplay
- Some games are locked behind a paywall
- Limited new game options compared to other platforms
Codenames Online
Codenames Online is a digital version of the popular word association game, where players guess words linked to a secret code.
Key Features:
- Online play with friends via invite
- Simple word association gameplay
- Customizable word lists or use default ones
- Quick rounds with easy-to-understand rules
Pros:
- Fast and simple gameplay
- Ideal for small groups or teams
- Customizable for different word preferences
- Easy to set up and play
Cons:
- Limited game modes and variations
- Can become repetitive with frequent play
- Slower pace for larger groups
Spaceteam
Spaceteam is a cooperative, fast-paced game where players shout instructions at each other to fix a malfunctioning spaceship.
Key Features:
- Cooperative gameplay requiring communication and teamwork
- Players give and follow chaotic, time-sensitive instructions
- Voice-based interaction for increased fun
- Supports both local and remote play
- Colorful and engaging interface
Pros:
- Fun and chaotic, ideal for parties
- Encourages teamwork and communication
- Quick rounds that keep the energy high
- Easy to learn and play with friends
Cons:
- Voice chat can become confusing
- Requires everyone to be in the same virtual space
- Can be frustrating if players don’t communicate effectively
- Might be too chaotic for some players
QuizUp
QuizUp is a competitive trivia game that offers a wide range of topics for players to test their knowledge against friends or strangers.
Key Features:
- Trivia games across various categories like history, science, and pop culture
- Competitive real-time matches with friends or other players
- Global leaderboards to track your performance
- Daily challenges and achievements for extra fun
- Simple interface for easy navigation
Pros:
- Large variety of trivia categories
- Competitive and engaging gameplay
- Great for casual and serious trivia fans
- Real-time matches for fast-paced fun
Cons:
- Requires sign-up to play
- Limited multiplayer options in some categories
- Ads can disrupt the experience unless upgraded to premium
Exploding Kittens (Online Version)
Exploding Kittens is a fast-paced card game where players draw cards to avoid “exploding” while using various action cards to disrupt others.
Key Features:
- Digital version of the popular card game
- Simple mechanics: draw cards and avoid exploding kittens
- Includes action cards to skip turns, reverse play, and shuffle the deck
- Play with friends or strangers online
- Supports various game modes and customization
Pros:
- Easy to learn and quick to play
- Fun for all ages with a lighthearted and humorous tone
- Great for casual game nights with friends
- Playable in small or large groups
Cons:
- Limited strategy can make it feel repetitive
- Requires a group to fully enjoy the game
- Some may find the humor too silly or simple
To Conclude
Virtual game nights are a great way to connect with friends, no matter the distance.
With these top apps, you can enjoy a wide range of games that suit any group or occasion.
Try out a few of these apps and host your next virtual game night today!
