5 Card Games to Play at Games Night
One of the best ways to spend a chilled evening is with friends over some card games. There’s something special about gathering around a table with friends, a deck of cards in hand, and the anticipation of a great game night ahead. Card games are a staple of any successful game night, as they offer a night of laughter, competition, and sometimes a bit of friendly banter.
Whether you’re looking to break the ice, spark hilarious conversations, or simply enjoy a fun challenge, the right card game can set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Here are five must-try card games that will take your game night to the next level:
1. Cards Against Humanity: The Party Game for Horrible People
Cards Against Humanity has become a cultural phenomenon for a reason — it’s ridiculously fun. The game is simple: each round, one player asks a question from a black card, and everyone else answers with their funniest (or most shocking) white card. The goal is to make the judge laugh the hardest or gasp in disbelief.
Why it’s great for game night:
- Endless Laughter: The combinations of cards can lead to some of the most hilarious and unexpected answers, ensuring unending laughter.
- Perfect Icebreaker: Whether you’re with old friends or new acquaintances, Cards Against Humanity helps everyone loosen up quickly.
- Expansions Available: If you’ve played through the base game, there are plenty of expansion packs to keep the fun going. The fun is endless.
Pro Tip: Since the humour can be dark and not suitable for all audiences, know your crowd before playing. This game is best enjoyed with friends who share a similar sense of humour.
2. What Do You Meme?: The Game of Captioning Hilarity
What Do You Meme? takes the internet’s favourite pastime — captioning memes — and turns it into a competitive card game. Players compete to create the funniest meme by pairing a caption card with a photo card in each round. The judge selects the best combination, and the player with the funniest meme wins the round.
Why it’s great for game night:
- Pop Culture Fun: If your group loves memes and is in tune with internet culture, this game will hit the right spot.
- Creative Captions: With countless possible combinations, each round brings a new and unique meme to life.
- Memorable Moments: The photo cards often feature iconic images that everyone recognizes, making for some truly memorable (and shareable) moments.
Pro Tip: Play with people who are in tune with current trends and memes. The more your group is familiar with internet culture, the funnier the game gets.
3. Truth or Drink: The Ultimate Test of Honesty
If you’re looking for a game that goes beyond humour to actually helping you know your friends better, then Truth or Drink is the card game for you. Players take turns drawing cards with provocative questions — if they choose not to answer truthfully, they must take a drink. It’s a daring mix of confession and liquid courage.
Why it’s great for game night:
- Deep Conversations: This game can lead to some revealing and intimate conversations you might not expect, helping you to know your friends on a much deeper level.
- Builds Trust: Truth or Drink can strengthen friendships as players share truths they might not otherwise reveal.
- Flexible Rules: You can play it as a lighthearted game or take it deeper, depending on the group’s mood.
Pro Tip: This game is best played with close friends who feel comfortable around each other. Be mindful of the questions and avoid pushing boundaries that might make someone uncomfortable.
4. These Cards Will Get You Drunk: The Party Game to Test Your Drinking Limits
If you’re in the mood for a simple, fast-paced drinking game, These Cards Will Get You Drunk is a perfect choice. Players take turns drawing cards, each with a unique rule or challenge — such as taking a drink, assigning drinks to others, or performing a dare. The game is straightforward, making it ideal for those who want to dive right into the action.
Why it’s great for game night:
- Quick and Easy: The rules are simple, so you can start playing straight up without much explanation.
- High Energy: This game is fast-paced and keeps the energy up throughout the night.
- Great for Groups: It’s perfect for larger groups where everyone wants to be involved.
Pro Tip: Make sure you have plenty of snacks and water on hand to keep everyone hydrated and happy. This game can escalate quickly, so pace yourself!
5. CardTegories: The Ultimate Test of Quick Thinking
If you want to challenge your friends’ wits and see who can think on their feet, CardTegories is the game for you. CardTegories is a card game designed to prompt players to name multiple examples of a specified category drawn from the deck of cards. The premise is simple: draw a card with a category, and each player must quickly name an example of the drawn category. Any player who hesitates, repeats, or fails to think of an example, is the snoozer. You snooze, you lose!
Why it’s great for game night:
- Fast-Paced Fun: The game moves quickly, keeping everyone engaged and on their toes.
- Wide Appeal: With 201 categories, there’s something for everyone, from pop culture buffs to geography wizzes, to foodies, and even fashion lovers.
- Endless Variety: Each round is different, ensuring that the game stays fresh and exciting. The cards also allow for different types of gameplay.
Pro Tip: Consider setting a timer for each round to keep the pressure on and make the game even more intense. This added challenge can lead to some hilarious moments as players scramble to come up with answers before the clock runs out!
Final Thoughts
Card games bring a unique energy to game night, turning even the most casual gatherings into memorable events. Whether you’re looking to laugh until you cry, know your friends better, or just enjoy some good-natured competition, these card games offer something for everyone. So, gather your friends, shuffle the deck, and let the games begin!
