Game night may seem like child’s play, but spending time in the company of others engaging in some light-hearted competition can be an entertaining way for adults to pass the time as well.
Board games have been experiencing a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with many people wanting to reconnect with one another in a way that television or the internet can’t offer, notes Gordon Lugauer, chief executive manager of the Board Game Barrister. According to a report by OnMilwaukee, a dining and entertainment guide in Wisconsin, board games are finding favor among young adults, with twenty-somethings gathering to hash out strategies for game play on Friday nights.
But it’s not only board games that adults are enjoying with some regularity. According to a new Entertainment Software Association Essential Facts annual report on the U.S. Video Game Industry for 2025, 60 percent of adults ages 18 and up play video games every week. The average age of modern gamers is now 36.
Nearly half of Boomers (ages 51 to 79) also play video games.
Hosting a regular game night for fellow adults can add to the social opportunities that can keep people connected. The following are some tips to make game nights successful.
Invite an array of people
Bringing together a good number of people can ensure a fun night with lively conversation. Just keep player numbers in mind when choosing board games. An even number of players works best. It may be necessary to split up players among various games as many games are capped at a maximum number of players, or to have everyone team up.
Choose the game in advance
Rather than discussing what to play once everyone arrives, which can take time away from game play, select the game prior to game night. Perhaps rotate so that the person hosting gets to choose the game? Choose a game as a backup in case the first doesn’t work out.
Ease into game play
Don’t rush game night along. Let everyone arrive and encourage conversation before everyone starts playing. This enables late arrivals to get there and not come in mid-game.
Create a relaxed vibe
Instead of setting the game up around a formal dining table, keep the dining table for a spread of refreshments and move game play over to a coffee table or a smaller table in the living area. This makes the gathering more relaxed and intimate.
Keep finger foods on hand
It’s much easier to snack while playing games when finger foods are served. Chips, dips, pizza, miniature tacos, and frozen appetizers are great options for game nights.
Alcoholic beverages are not a must
Party hosts can use their discretion regarding alcohol. While a drink or two can reduce inhibitions and help players relax and get more into game play, it’s not mandatory to have cocktails, wine or beer available. The people who are regularly invited will help hosts make the call on whether or not to serve alcohol.
