Heres, how to host a board game night for your friends and how to encourage your friends to join. If you’re trying to get your friends involved in board games or card games, it’s important to approach it in a fun and inviting way. Here are some tips on how to host a board game night with friends.
Start with Easy-to-Learn Board Games
When introducing friends to board games, start with games that have simple rules and quick playtimes. This will prevent anyone from feeling overwhelmed or bored. Board games or card games like Uno, Exploding Kittens, and Ticket to Ride are fun, easy to learn, and engaging for both beginners and seasoned players. These games are also fast-paced, so no one will lose interest while figuring out the rules.
Set the Date In Advance – Be Prepared
Plan in advance so your friends can prepare. Let them know a rough plan, but keep it casual. Make sure to include have a variety of games—some that are competitive, some cooperative, and maybe even a few with just a lighthearted element.
Make sure you know the rules and can relay them back to your friends. Let your friends know some of the games you are thinking of playing so if they want to research them or watch some videos, they can be prepared in advance.
Grab some snacks, music, and a comfortable space for everyone to hang out. The more relaxed and social the atmosphere, the more likely your friends will want to join in.
One Key Way to Host a Board Game Night is to Appeal to Interests
Not all teens are into the same kinds of board games, so it helps to match games to their specific interests. For example, if your friends enjoy strategy or puzzles, they might enjoy Catan, Carcassonne, or Risk.
If they prefer something more action-packed and creative, consider Jenga, Flip 7, or Telestrations. Social deduction games are becoming increasingly popular. Offering different styles of board game options that appeal to different tastes makes it easier to get everyone involved.
Make Game Night a Group Activity
Sometimes, teens may be hesitant to try something new, especially if they feel it’s a solo experience. To combat this, turn the game night into a group bonding activity. Play team-based or cooperative board games, like Codenames or Dixit, where players can work together to solve problems. This approach can help people feel more comfortable, and it allows them to enjoy the game without the pressure of individual performance.
Use Social Media to Build Excitement
Use platforms like Instagram or Snapchat to build excitement around your game night. Post about the games you’re planning to play, share cool game-related memes, or invite friends to vote on which games they’d like to try. Teens are naturally connected to social media, and this can be a fun way to drum up interest in your game nights and encourage more people to get involved. Send them links to video or websites that showcase the games, so they can prepare and see what the board games are about.
Encourage Friendly Competition
Depending on your friend group, as mentioned above, some may prefer a cooperative game to start or maybe you have competitive friends who love a friendly challenge.
You could turn the game night into a mini-tournament, where people play multiple games and earn points to determine the overall winner. Add a fun prize, like a trophy or a small reward, to motivate people to play their best. A little competition can spark excitement and encourage people to join in, especially if there’s a chance to prove who’s the ultimate game master.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Make sure the environment is inviting and casual. Some teens may feel hesitant to engage in something new if it feels too formal or structured. Let the game night flow naturally, with plenty of time for chatting, laughing, and socializing. Keep things light-hearted and fun so that everyone feels welcome, even if they’re not familiar with the games being played.
What Next
Let me know how you go. Share a photo with us or tag us on social media. I would love to see and hear what tabletop games you enjoyed and played.
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- Board Games for Teens, or click the age group you wish to explore further.
