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There’s no better way to strengthen friendships and test the limits of your competitive spirit than a game night. Whether it’s an evening of laughter, frustration or unexpected victories, the right game can turn any gathering into a battle of wits, luck and laughs. But the key to making sure everyone leaves with more than triumph and a smile? Creating the right environment, curating the right games and knowing when to call it quits. Here’s a few tips on how you can host and execute one to remember.
Make space.
When it comes to game night, your living room is about to transform into a battle room, so give it the space it deserves. Regardless of the size of your home, you’ve got to clear the area for both game play and socializing. Seating is king and people hold court over their designated chair like it’s a throne, so be sure to have plenty of comfy options to choose from. Tables need to be free of clutter to make way for dice rolls, cards and snacks. Lighting’s important too—dim enough to set the vibe, bright enough to see those cards.
Consider your group and choose the right games.
Know your crowd. A mix of games is the sweet spot. Sure, you can’t go wrong with classics like Uno, charades, or Cards Against Humanity, but throw in something unexpected. In true Vegas fashion, don’t skimp on blackjack or poker. Gauge the vibe, though. Some nights, people want to dive deep into a strategy game like Catan or Risk, and other nights, folks just want to goof off with a round of Pictionary or Telestrations. Flexibility is everything so read the room and let the game flow.
Know the rules.
Nothing kills momentum faster than fumbling through the instructions mid-game, especially when people are already a few drinks in. Be sure you’ve studied the rules yourself, and if necessary, prep a short, punchy explanation of how things work or have a rule summary ready to pass around to players. The quicker everyone knows how to play, the quicker the fun starts.
Start simply and ease into it.
Whatever you do, don’t start the night with a round of Monopoly. It’s a sure way to backtrack the night’s peak. Instead, kick things off with something light and fast paced, like Jenga or 21. This gets the energy flowing, and no one’s too bogged down by complex rules. After a round of high energy fun, you can throw in a heavier game, one that requires focus and will make everyone channel their inner mastermind. As the night winds down, Twister is your secret weapon to revive everyone’s energy for one last laugh.
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