Top 15 Online Family Games to Play Virtually
When families gather in person, games often become the centerpiece of their bonding. However, modern family interactions often shift to online chats, which, while nice, can sometimes lack the dynamic energy of in-person gatherings. To bring that playful spirit into the virtual space, we’ve compiled a list of online family games that offer a fun and engaging way to connect.
This list features a range of online games, from straightforward ones needing just a pen and paper to those that use phones or laptops. Browse through our selection, and the next time you’re on a video call with family, you’ll be ready to create new memories together.
1. Jeopardy
Jeopardy is a well-known quiz game where players answer in the form of a question, responding to clues presented by the host. This format can be easily adapted for an enjoyable family game night online.
You’ll need to make preparations to set up an online version of Jeopardy. You can find free online versions of the game, or for a more personalized touch, create your own using tools like PowerPoint or online quiz makers.
You can adapt the categories and questions to your family’s interests if you feel creative. Consider using categories like “Favorite Family Movies” or “Holiday Traditions” to keep everyone engaged.
2. Secret Sith
Inspired by the popular game Secret Hitler, the Secret Sith is perfect for families with older kids who love a bit of intrigue and mystery. Players are secretly divided into two teams – the loyal members of the Galactic Senate and the hidden Sith Lords. The goal for the Senate is to pass policies that benefit the galaxy, while the Sith Lords aim to sow discord and take control.
The beauty of Secret Sith lies in its ability to teach critical thinking, strategizing, and deduction. Players must argue, persuade, and deduce who among them are the Sith Lords, leading to hilarious and often intense debates.
3. Broken Picture Phone
Broken Picture Phone is a creative online family game. It’s a twist on the classic game of telephone but with a unique blend of drawing and guessing. The game starts with a player writing a phrase or sentence, which the next player must draw. The following player then guesses this drawing, and the cycle continues. The results? A chain of misinterpreted drawings and guesses that are guaranteed to make everyone laugh.
To play, visit Broken Picture Phone and start a game with your family. It’s all about enjoying the process and seeing how wildly different the final interpretation is from the original phrase.
4. Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes
Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes stands out because it focuses on communication and collaboration. One player is trapped in a virtual room with a ticking time bomb they must defuse. The other players are the “Experts” who must give instructions to defuse the bomb by deciphering the information in the defusal manual.
It’s a race against time, where players must speak clearly, listen carefully, and work together to avert disaster. So, if your family is up for a challenge and enjoys fast-paced, collaborative puzzles, this game is a must-try!
5. Codenames
In Codenames, players split into two teams, each with a “spymaster” who knows the secret identities of 25 agents. These identities are concealed under codenames represented by single words on a grid. The spymaster gives one-word clues pointing to multiple words on the board, and their teammates try to guess the words of their color while avoiding those that belong to the opposing team.
The appeal of Codenames lies in its simplicity and the depth of thinking it requires. It’s a game that challenges players to think creatively and strategically, making it an excellent fit for families with older children and adults.
6. Family Fact or Fiction?
Family Fact or Fiction? is a delightful twist on traditional trivia as it’s all about how well you know your family. Each player comes up with statements about themselves, and the rest of the family guesses whether these statements are true or false. The fun lies in uncovering surprising facts and debunking common misconceptions about each other.
For example:
- “I once met a celebrity.”
- “I’ve never broken a bone in my body.”
- “I was once mistaken for someone else in a funny situation.”
- “I have a fear of heights/water.”
- “I secretly enjoy a hobby that no one knows about.”
- “I once won a competition or award in school.”
- “I have a quirky habit I’ve never shared with anyone.”
The game’s strength lies in its simplicity and the personal touch it brings. There’s no need for a specific platform or app; it’s driven by personal anecdotes and creativity.
7. Jackbox Games
Jackbox Games offers a diverse collection of party games that have revolutionized virtual family games. From drawing and word games to trivia and more, Jackbox has something for every family member.
Games like Quiplash challenge players to come up with witty responses to prompts, while Drawful turns everyone into an amateur artist. These games are perfect for families looking for a mix of humor, creativity, and a bit of friendly competition.
Setting up Jackbox Games is straightforward. One family member can purchase a Jackbox Party Pack and share it via screen-sharing on a platform like Zoom. This method is particularly effective when each participant uses a laptop for Zoom and a smartphone to play the games.
8. Scattergories
Scattergories is a classic word game where players are challenged to think of words that fit a specific category and start with a certain letter, all within a tight time limit. It’s a race against the clock that tests your vocabulary and quick thinking.
While you can play the online version of Scattergories on platforms like Stopots, there’s also a simple way to enjoy this game without any digital tools. Families can easily play Scattergories over a video call using just pen and paper.
You can use typical categories such as names, cities, animals, foods, and movies. But to add a unique twist to your Scattergories game, you can make up your own categories. Consider some of the following:
- Something about your family
- Words associated with winter
- A 6-letter word
- Something you see at work/school
9. Pictionary
Pictionary is a classic drawing and guessing game that’s a hit for online family fun. The concept is straightforward: one player draws, and the others guess what the drawing represents. The real entertainment often lies in the amusing and sometimes off-the-mark guesses and drawings.
Playing Pictionary online is simple and doesn’t require any complex setup. For an online version, you can visit websites like Sketchful.io, Skribbl.io, or Gartic.io, which offer Pictionary-style gameplay. These platforms are user-friendly and free, making Pictionary an accessible option for virtual family game nights.
10. Among Us
Among Us has taken the world by storm, becoming a phenomenal addition to online family games. This multiplayer game sets players aboard a spaceship, where they must work together to complete tasks and identify the impostors among the crew. Meanwhile, the impostors aim to sabotage the mission and eliminate crew members without getting caught.
The appeal of Among Us lies in its blend of strategy, teamwork, and deception. It’s a game that encourages communication and deduction, as players discuss and debate to figure out who the impostors are.
Available on various platforms, it’s one of those fun games to play online that’s accessible and engaging for both kids and adults.
11. Sky: Children of the Light
Sky: Children of the Light offers families a unique blend of adventure and puzzle-solving in a beautifully animated world. You can team up with friends or family members remotely, explore the game’s realms together, solve puzzles, and participate in the game’s collaborative challenges, all while being in different physical locations. This feature makes it an excellent choice for online family gaming and connecting with loved ones virtually.
Sky’s emphasis on non-violent exploration and its engaging, serene world makes it an excellent choice for families. Available on multiple platforms, it provides an enriching experience that encourages teamwork and bonding, suitable for all ages.
12. Classic Card Games
The world of online family games is not complete without the timeless charm of Classic Card Games. From the strategic depths of Bridge and Poker to the fast-paced excitement of Uno and Go Fish, these games have transitioned beautifully into the digital realm.
Playing card games online is incredibly easy and often free, making them a great addition to your repertoire of free virtual games. Websites and apps offer various versions of popular card games, allowing families to play together regardless of distance. These games are not just about luck; they’re about strategy, quick thinking, and sometimes, a good poker face.
13. Catan
Catan, the legendary board game of trading and strategy, is ideal for families with children over the age of 10 and adults. And the best part? It exists in an online version as Colonist. In this game, players collect resources and use them to build roads, settlements, and cities. The aim is strategically expanding your territory and earning points to win the game.
14. Online Murder Mysteries
Online Murder Mysteries is perfect for those who love solving puzzles. These games often come in various themes and difficulty levels, making them suitable for families with older children or teens.
As a family game online, murder mysteries encourage critical thinking, attention to detail, and collaborative problem-solving. They’re a fantastic way to engage in a narrative-driven adventure and test your deductive skills.
For families looking to add a touch of drama and excitement to their game nights, Online Murder Mysteries offer an immersive experience that’s both challenging and rewarding.
15. Most Likely To
Most Likely To is a simple yet entertaining game. Players take turns reading statements like “Most likely to become a millionaire” or “Most likely to travel the world.” Everyone then decides which family member fits the statement best, leading to laughter and lively discussions.
This game is a fantastic way to learn more about how family members view each other and can lead to some surprising revelations. It’s a light-hearted and engaging way to bond and share opinions, making it a great addition to free online family games.
Online Family Games: Conclusion
To conclude, online family games help families to come together, share laughs, and create lasting memories, even if they’re not physically together.
We encourage you to dive into these virtual family games during your next family gathering. And remember, to enjoy these games to their fullest, you need a reliable and fast internet connection.