Staying connected with friends and family can be tough when you live far apart. A virtual game night is a fun way to bridge that distance and create lasting memories.
With so many accessible online platforms, there’s a game out there for everyone.
Whether you love escape rooms, party games, puzzles, or online board games, this list is packed with ideas for your next virtual get-together.
Ready to experience the fun firsthand? Book a demo with Escapely today!
1. Virtual Escape Rooms
A virtual escape room can transform any evening into the ultimate game night. You and your team connect through a video call on your chosen video conferencing platform, then tackle puzzles together in real time.
Escapely’s online escape rooms include immersive storytelling, interactive props, and exciting team challenges that test your collaboration skills.
Players will join a video chat, meet their live host, and hear the backstory. Then they’ll work against the clock to crack codes and find hidden clues.
This fun way to play virtually keeps everyone on their toes. It also fits small and large groups and helps remote teams bond through team-building activities.
The best part? You don’t have to worry about setup, rules, or keeping track of time—Escapely does it all for you.
2. Virtual Trivia Night
If you love a little friendly competition, a virtual trivia night is a great game to play. It’s an easy and fun way to bring friends and family together, test your knowledge, and have some laughs.
You can host your own session by writing trivia questions, or use a free version of an online trivia generator.
Create categories like pop culture, sports, or science, then share your screen so everyone sees the questions at the same time.
If you’d rather not handle the hosting, Escapely’s trivia hosts can step in to take care of everything—from keeping score to making sure everyone stays engaged.
3. Virtual Murder Mysteries
Want to add some drama to your game night? A virtual murder mystery is a fantastic way to step into character, gather clues, and solve a crime with friends.
The game begins with an engaging storyline filled with twists and turns. A set of suspects is introduced, each with unique motives and secrets.
Players receive detailed character roles that include backstories, objectives, and hidden clues to reveal at strategic moments.
As the mystery unfolds, you use chat feature options or breakout rooms to share intel privately or mislead others. Your main goal is to expose the culprit before the time is up.
You can split into two teams—detectives and suspects—to see if the detectives can crack the case. It’s perfect for remote teams looking for a thrilling game to play that sparks creativity and sharpens problem-solving skills.
Interested in experiencing a fun virtual game night? Book a demo with us to learn more about our virtual team building games and events!
4. Digital Scavenger Hunts
A digital scavenger hunt energizes your group by mixing virtual tasks with real-world searches. It gets players moving and thinking creatively.
You can use apps like GooseChase, which provides built-in challenges, or customize your own by creating a list of items for participants to find in their homes.
Teams might collect items, take photos, or even solve riddles. Players will submit their findings through a screen-sharing session or an app, and the host awards points based on speed, creativity, or accuracy.
If you love the idea of a scavenger hunt but prefer an in-person experience, Escapely offers immersive, outdoor scavenger quests that take teams on interactive adventures through cities.
5. Virtual Drawing Games
Virtual drawing games like Skribbl.io or Drawasaurus let you play online with your friends in a hilarious, creative competition.
These games bring out everyone’s inner artist—whether you’re great at drawing or not, the results are always entertaining.
One player sees a secret word and tries to draw it while the other players guess. You earn points based on speed and accuracy, and the round ends once someone guesses correctly.
You can add a fun night twist by choosing themed rounds, such as movie references for movie buffs or everyday objects for a more relaxed vibe.
This approach makes each guess a challenge and brings a lot of laughs when the doodles don’t quite match the word.
For a more casual game, play with friends and enjoy the laughs. Players who want more structure can find pre-set drawings online.
6. Online Board Games
If you love classic board games, platforms like Tabletopia, Board Game Arena, and Pogo offer online versions of popular games like Catan, Monopoly, and Scrabble.
To start, choose a game and invite your friends by sharing a link. Some platforms offer free versions, while others may require a small fee for premium games.
The platforms handle rules and answer format tracking, so you focus on the fun. Many also include built-in chat or video call features for easy communication.
If you’re playing with a mix of experienced and new players, start with a classic game that’s easy to learn and widely known.
If you’re up for a challenge, try a more complex game that requires deeper strategy and teamwork.
Online board games are a great game night option for friends who enjoy methodical, turn-based strategy or a relaxed afternoon of casual gaming.
7. Virtual Bingo
Virtual bingo is a quick crowd-pleaser for small and large groups alike. You create a bingo card online and share one with each participant.
Decide on a theme—like pop culture references, personal jokes, or inside jokes—and start calling out squares. You win by marking off a row or column and shouting “Bingo!”
Want to add a competitive twist? Offer small prizes for winners or throw in a few funny challenges for those who get close but don’t quite win.
It’s a fun, easy way to bring everyone together for a lighthearted game night, and it doesn’t require much setup.
8. Online Card Games
Online platforms like CardzMania or PlayingCards.io offer card games you already love. Choose from Poker, Uno, Spades, or Hearts, then invite your friends into a private game room.
You can also try multiple game modes in one session if your group wants variety.
You just share the link, shuffle the virtual deck, and start playing. It’s a fun way to pass time while bluffing your way to victory.
Players can even host a mini tournament to name an ultimate winner.
9. Monax Island
Monax Island is an online version of a group survival scenario. Players assume roles like builder or medic, then work together to find resources, solve puzzles, and navigate surprise threats.
Each role has special abilities that contribute to the team’s survival. Groups can set the scene with additional story elements, such as a crashed plane, and then guide everyone through obstacles like sudden storms.
Throughout the game, players must complete challenges like gathering food, constructing shelter, and decoding secret messages to unlock new areas.
This scenario-based approach turns an online board concept into a more immersive quest. It’s a team-building challenge for remote teams who enjoy adventure narratives and puzzle-solving in the same session.
10. Karaoke or Lip Sync Battle
A Zoom game night featuring karaoke using screen sharing or apps like Smule is a surefire way to turn any virtual hangout into a party.
And if Zoom isn’t your thing, other video conferencing platforms like Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, or Discord work just as well for hosting a lively sing-off.
Just queue up a playlist, grab a virtual mic, and belt out your favorite tunes while your friends cheer (or cringe) on the other end of the screen.
Not a singer? No problem.
Just lip sync and go all out with your performance. Everyone else can cheer you on or vote for their favorites.
You’ll have a fun night that leaves everyone laughing and chatting about each unique rendition.
Interested in experiencing a fun virtual game night? Book a demo with us to learn more about our virtual team building games and events!
How to Plan an Engaging Virtual Game Night: Quick Tips
Planning a successful virtual game night is easy! Here are some quick tips.
- Choose a theme to set the mood.
- Select different games that suit your group’s interests.
- Schedule a time that works across time zones.
- Send invitations with clear instructions.
- Test your internet connection before the game night.
Why Virtual Game Nights Are Here to Stay
Let’s be real—getting everyone together in one place isn’t easy. Busy schedules, long distances, and life in general make in-person hangouts tough to plan.
That’s why virtual game nights aren’t just a passing trend—they’re the perfect way to stay connected.
Here are some reasons why they’re here to stay.
Easy for Everyone, Everywhere
No travel, no complicated planning—just log in and play. Whether your friends are across town or across the country, virtual game nights make it effortless to bring people together.
A Cost-Effective Way to Have Fun
Hosting a virtual game night removes the expenses associated with going out, like dining, drinks, or travel. Many online games are free or affordable.
This makes virtual game nights an accessible entertainment option for all, whether you’re gathering with friends or organizing a virtual team building event.
Endless Variety and Replayability
From trivia and escape rooms to murder mystery games, the online gaming world offers limitless options. There’s always a new challenge, fresh content, and ways to customize the experience for any group.
Key Takeaways on 10 Virtual Game Night Ideas to Try With Family and Friends
A virtual game night can bring people together without complicated logistics.
You can host a trivia night, try a classic board game online, or explore immersive challenges like escape rooms. Each choice delivers a fun way to keep everyone entertained and connected.
Whether catching up with friends, bringing family together, or planning a team-building event, a game night keeps things lively and engaging.
You don’t need a complicated setup. Just gather your group, pick a game, and jump in.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What equipment is needed for a virtual game night?
All you need is a phone, tablet, or computer and a stable internet connection. Some games also require a chat feature or screen sharing, but that usually comes built into a video conferencing platform.
How can I include people who aren’t tech-savvy?
Provide a simple guide with instructions, links, and any download steps before your online game night. Encourage them to test everything in advance.
What are some unique themes for a virtual game night?
Make your online game night more exciting with a fun theme! Try a Murder Mystery Night, where everyone plays a character and solves a case, or a Game Show Night with trivia and challenges.
Interested in experiencing a fun virtual game night? Book a demo with us to learn more about our virtual team building games and events!
