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Games night at home: picking games everyone can play

The best group games aren't the most complex ones. They're quick to learn, short per round and fun to watch even when it's not your turn.

2 min read

Group of friends playing games together on a sofa

A good games night needs titles a first-timer can understand in under a minute.

What to look for

Short rounds: five minutes or less keeps everyone involved.
Simple controls: one or two buttons, or touch-only.
Fun to watch: party, puzzle and trivia games work well.
Drop-in, drop-out: people can join halfway through.

Setting up

Charge controllers and phones the day before.
Download games in advance; updates always arrive at the worst moment.
Mirror a phone or tablet to the TV if the game supports it, so everyone can see.