32 Best Family Games to Bring Laughter and Fun

My boys always ask me what I want to play before bedtime. Always. It’s become a nightly tradition for us to play together before they go to sleep. Sometimes, the best family games for us are simple games of cards; sometimes, it’s rounds of charades.

That’s why my notebook has a list of the best family games we’ve played over the years. It has many categories, like card games, board games, and word games. We’ve even tried a few outdoor games to change the pace.

I want to share them with you so you can create unforgettable memories with your family, too. So, pin, save, or share the image below for later and start planning your next family game night!

Card Games

Card games are among the best family games because all you need is a deck of cards and a bit of imagination. Plus, you can play them anywhere—at home, in the car, or even while waiting at a restaurant.

1. UNO: This classic card game is perfect for players of all ages. It’s fast-paced, easy to learn, and always leads to lots of laughs. I definitely LOL when my boys hand me the “Draw Five” card!
2. Crazy Eights: This game is similar to UNO but with a few twists. Players must match numbers or suits and can also play special cards to change the game’s direction. It’s a great option for families with younger children.
3. Go Fish: Another easy-to-learn game that’s perfect for young players. It helps with memory skills and is a great way to introduce young kids to the world of card games.
4. Old Maid: This old-fashioned game may seem outdated, but it’s still a hit with kids. The goal is to avoid being left with the “old maid” card by pairing it with other players’ cards.
5. Spades: This trick-taking game is popular among older kids and adults. It requires strategy and teamwork, making it a great option for family game night.

Board Games

Board games are a classic choice for family game night, and for good reason. They offer many themes, gameplay styles, and difficulty levels to suit any family’s preferences.

1. Monopoly: A timeless favorite that families have played for generations. It’s a great way to teach kids about money management while having fun.
2. Scrabble: Our family loves this word-based game that challenges players to come up with words using letter tiles. It’s awesome for kids learning spelling and vocabulary.
3. Ticket to Ride: This award-winning game is about building North American train routes. It’s easy to learn but offers enough strategy to keep adults engaged.
4. Catan: Another popular game that involves building and trading resources to settle the island of Catan. It’s a great option for families with older kids.

Outdoor Games

Why not have a family game night outside when the weather is nice? These fun family games are perfect for getting some fresh air and physical activity.

1. Cornhole: This backyard classic involves throwing bean bags into holes on a wooden board. It’s simple but addictive. Moreover, all ages can enjoy it.
2. Giant Jenga: This game takes the classic game of Jenga to a whole new level with giant-sized blocks. It’s awesome for family gatherings or parties.
3. Lawn Twister: This fun twist on the classic game transforms your lawn into a giant game board. It’s perfect for kids and adults alike.

Party Games

Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these party games will surely bring some laughter and fun.

1. Cards Against Humanity Family Edition: This popular game is known for its outrageous humor. It’s perfect for breaking the ice at parties.
2. Charades: A classic game that never gets old. It requires players to act out words or phrases without speaking, making for some hilarious moments.
3. Pictionary: Similar to charades, but with drawing instead of acting. It’s a great game for teams and can get very competitive.

Paper and Pencil Games

These simple yet entertaining games only require a pen and paper for on-the-go or impromptu gatherings.

1. Hangman: A classic word-guessing game that two or more players can play. It’s a fun way to test vocabulary and spelling skills.
2. Dots and Boxes: This simple strategy game involves connecting dots to create boxes and earn points. It’s easy to learn and can keep players engaged for hours.
3. Tic-Tac-Toe: Another classic game that never gets old. It requires players to strategically place Xs and Os in a three-by-three grid to win.

Puzzle Games

The best family games in our home sometimes require brain teasers and problem-solving. Here are a few options to exercise the mind and keep everyone entertained.

1. Sudoku: A numbers-based puzzle game that requires logic and critical thinking skills. Additionally, it’s a great way to challenge and improve math skills.
2. Jigsaw Puzzles: A more traditional puzzle game that involves putting together interlocking pieces to create an image. It’s perfect for quiet and relaxing gatherings.
3. Escape Rooms: These real-life adventure games have become extremely popular recently. They require players to solve puzzles and riddles to escape a themed room.
4. Crossword Puzzles: A popular word-based puzzle that challenges players’ vocabulary and knowledge on a variety of topics.

Trivia Games

Trivia games are the perfect choice for those who love to test their knowledge. They can be played in teams or individually, making them ideal for all group sizes.

1. Trivia Pursuit: A classic game that tests general knowledge across various categories.
2. Jeopardy: Based on the popular TV show, this game requires players to answer questions in different categories and wager points.
3. Wits & Wagers: This game combines trivia and betting, making it a fun and unpredictable option for group gatherings.
4. Name That Tune: A great game for music lovers where players have to guess the name of a song based on a few notes or lyrics.
5. Who Wants to be a Millionaire:  Another popular game show turned into a board game, where players must answer multiple-choice questions to progress and win the “million-dollar prize.”

Strategy Games

For those who enjoy games that require planning, strategy, and critical thinking skills, here are a few options to try out:

1. Chess: The ultimate strategic board game that has been around for centuries. It requires players to think ahead and outsmart their opponents.
2. Settlers of Catan: A popular game that involves building settlements and trading resources with other players to win.
3. Risk: A classic war-themed board game where players must strategize and conquer territories to dominate the world.
4. Codenames: A team-based word association game where players have to give clues to their teammates without revealing the secret code words to the other team.
5. Rummikub: This game players aim to be the first to eliminate all their tiles by forming sets of consecutive numbers or groups of the same number.

Wrapping Up

The best family games bring the whole family together, spark laughter, and create lasting memories. And with so many options available, there’s always a game for every occasion and preference.

What type of game do you enjoy playing with your kids? Share your favorites in the comments below!