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Looking for group games for parties and family gatherings? Here are some good ones we found:
When the in-laws leave you longing for the last word, here’s a way to make it official. Pick a subject card and letter card (for example, Subject: Fruits; Letter: P). Players race opponents in yelling out answers to the category (papaya, pineapple, pomegranate). The player with the last word in before the (random) timer advances. Best for ages 8 and up and can accommodate up to 8 players. Buffalo Games, retails for $29.99.
Toys & Co., 242 S. Sharon Amity Road, 704-365-7890, www.toysandco.com.
Find out more about your family and friends with this game, where the object is to respond to answers similar to other players. A description and subject card are picked (think Powerful Politician, Sad Song or ’80s Hairstyle). Players must doodle or write their answers, which are revealed to show more about each person – and who is thinking alike. With over 5,000 possible combinations, the combinations (and laughter) can be endless. Recommended for ages 14 and up. Buffalo Games, $27.99.
Brilliant Sky Toys & Books, 9882 Rea Rd., 704-542-5145, www.brilliantskytoys.com.
If you’ve got a thing for trivia, get past the name, because this is one fun game. Categories including Who, What and Where Am I cards have 10 clues, but here’s the kicker: if you’ve ever played a game and wanted to shout out the answer, this is your chance. Shout it out and get one step closer to being the ultimate Smart A** – and who doesn’t want to be that, right? Recommended for ages 12 and up but with the game’s name, best for adults. University Games; $24.99.
When talk gets tense or the time a tad tedious, turn to Telestrations. Picture Telephone (the game) meeting Pictionary. Player No. 1 gets the secret word, which is sketched on his notepad (included). Without words, the players around the table each take a turn at drawing what they perceive the previous picture to be. Great for groups and both artists and the artistically challenged. USAopoly; 12-Player Party Pack is $39.99.
Toys & Co., 242 S. Sharon Amity Roa, 704-365-7890
www.toysandco.com.
The cat’s out of the bag – this new game is both educational and entertaining. Merriam Webster’s word game utilizes wacky everyday phrases that you try to help your team guess by drawing, acting, shouting or spelling. Got a tricky one? Don’t get bent out of shape. Simply pick up the pieces and do the best you can! Recommended for ages 15+; most younger people may not know the meaning of many of the idioms, though it’s a good learning opportunity. Goliath, $19.99.
Excellent as an ice breaker and stellar at supporting social interaction, this game is about comparisons. Players get red cards with nouns on them and one green card is turned over that has an adjective or description. Which is the perfect pairing? It’s all up to the judge. Table talk results, as do lots of laughs. Recommended for ages 12+ though younger ones can also play. Mattel, retails for $23.29.
