Let’s face it, adults are just grown-up kids with responsibilities, and who doesn’t love a good game? We’ve pulled together 23 of our favourite party games for adults, whether you’re planning a birthday, a house party, or a get-together for a big group. Most work indoors with barely any setup, and a few need zero equipment at all.
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Whether you’re looking to add a bit of excitement to your gathering or simply want to keep the fun going, these games are sure to do the trick. While they’re not all drinking games, they definitely pair well with a glass of wine.
Although some of these can be enjoyed by kids, they’re mostly designed with adults in mind. If you’re planning a party for younger guests, be sure to check out our favourite kid’s party games here.
If you’re planning an adult birthday party specifically, a few of these are worth jumping to first: Pass the Parcel works brilliantly for a seated meal between courses, Karaoke and Guess the Song are easy wins if your group loves music, and the Post-it Note Game barely needs any setup for a quick laugh. If it’s a milestone year, our 50th birthday party ideas post has more inspiration.
1. Karaoke
Karaoke needs a bit of set-up and technically it’s not a game… but it’s still a huge amount of fun! Getting your guests to sing along to a famous song is sure to engage everyone. It’s also a lovely way to kick off a birthday, letting everyone sing something dedicated to the birthday person before the night gets going.
To set up, all you need is a mic, a speaker and a projector. Depending on where you live, you might be able to rent the equipment. Alternatively, you can book an entertainer who provides karaoke for you!
Just make sure your guests are ready to show off their singing voices before you plan the activity. Encourage people to get up in groups if they are nervous.
Pro-tip: Use Youtube for the karaoke lyrics. Just search for [Song Name] + Karaoke.
- Duration: 30 min+
- Set-up: 20 min
- Group size: Any
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Mic and speaker needed
2. Guess the Song
Not everyone is comfortable singing, but everyone loves the classics. Playing ‘Guess the Song’, also known as the jukebox game, a great alternative to karaoke. The set-up is a lot easier, as all you need is a speaker.
There are endless variations of this game you can play, such as guess the Disney song, guess the movie, or guess the first line of the song. Choose (or create) your favourite variation and have fun!
For a birthday, try picking songs from the birthday person’s favourite decade or artist; it turns into a fun little tribute round.
If you have a competitive audience, ask for the album and the year… Don’t forget to find a silly prize for the winner (or a forfeit for the losers).
- Duration: 20 min+
- Set-up: 10 min
- Group size: Any
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Speaker only
3. Blind Tasting
If your guests are food enthusiasts or wine connoisseurs, a blind tasting game is a fantastic choice. You can also add a twist with a blindfolded smell test, you’ll be amazed at how often we get it wrong! Depending on where you live, another fun variation is blind tasting craft beers. Challenge your guests to identify the variety, the aromas, and so on. Extra points if they can guess the exact brand and name!
- Duration: 20 min+
- Set-up: 10 min
- Group size: Any
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Items to taste
4. Pass the Parcel
This classic children’s game works surprisingly well for an adult audience, especially during a seated meal between courses. The rules are simple and nostalgic: pass the parcel around the table while the music plays, and when it stops, the person holding the parcel opens a layer. What makes it fun for adults is the surprise element, between each layer, you can include either a silly prize or a playful forfeit. Silly prizes could be anything from quirky trinkets to small bottles of spirits, while forfeits might involve light-hearted dares or challenges, like sharing a funny story or performing a quick dance move.
This game is a great way to keep the energy up during dinner and ensure everyone stays engaged and entertained throughout the evening. Plus, it brings out a bit of friendly competition and lots of laughs! It also makes a genuinely great birthday party game for adults, especially if you make sure the birthday person always gets to open a layer.
- Duration: 10 min
- Set-up: 10 min (depends on the number of layers)
- Group size: Any
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Minimal (wrapped parcel)
5. Card Games
There’s an endless variety of card games you can play, ranging from those that require special decks to those that only need a regular pack of 52 cards, or sometimes even less. When it comes to parties, it’s best to choose a game that most people are already familiar with or that’s quick to learn. A few of our favourites include:
- Spades: A classic trick-taking game that’s easy to pick up and keeps everyone engaged.
- Cards Against Humanity: Definitely not for the easily offended, but it’s a modern classic that guarantees laughs and outrageous moments.
- Spoons: A fast-paced and energetic game that’s always a hit, especially when the competition heats up!
Pro-tip: If you’re playing Cards Against Humanity with a small group (3 or 4 people), consider adding a “random” card to the players’ selections. You’ll be surprised at how often the random card wins, it adds an extra layer of unpredictability and fun to the game!
- Duration: 30min+
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: 3 to 10 players
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Deck of cards
6. Poker
Technically, poker is just another card game, but its popularity and complexity earn it a special mention. Poker can be a fantastic addition to any party, offering both strategy and excitement. However, keep in mind that a proper game of poker can go on for quite a while. If you want to keep things short and sweet, set a time limit or play for a fixed number of rounds, for example, the person with the most chips after 15 rounds takes the win.
Pro-tip: Before you start, make sure everyone agrees on the same set of rules. While most people know how to play poker, there can be disagreements over the finer points. Aligning on the rules upfront ensures a smooth and enjoyable game for everyone.
- Duration: 30min+
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: 3 to 10 players
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Cards and chips
7. Yahtzee
Yahtzee is a great game that you can play with just 5 dice and a piece of paper. Different people have different rules and scoring methods, but the core concept of the game is very simple.
In turn, each player tries to roll specific dice combinations. Each combination scores points. The player with the most points at the end wins. You can see a full breakdown of the rules in this video by Triple S Games.
- Duration: 30min+
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: 3 to 10 players
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Dice and paper
8. Word Tag
This is a game you can play throughout the evening. It’s identical to tag, except there’s no running around, and the tag is a word!
To start, simply write down a secret word on a piece of paper. If someone says the word during conversation, they become “it.” The goal is to avoid being “it” by the end of the night, as the final person tagged has to complete a forfeit, such as helping the host with the dishes or another amusing task.
To keep the game fresh, you can change the secret word each time someone becomes “it.” The previous “it” writes a new word down, ensuring it’s not too obscure; otherwise, the game becomes too challenging. This game is a great way to keep everyone on their toes and adds an extra layer of fun to the evening’s conversations.
- Duration: Ongoing
- Set-up: n/a
- Group size: Any
- Setting: Indoor or outdoor
- Equipment: None
9. Mystery Word
This game is the complete opposite of the word tag game. Here, the challenge is to say your word without getting caught.
To play, write down a variety of random words on separate pieces of paper and have each player draw one at random. The objective is for each player to incorporate their word into conversation or storytelling without being noticed by the other participants. Whether during a casual chat or while spinning a tale, the goal is to slip your word in seamlessly. The game adds an entertaining layer of challenge and encourages creativity, as players try to work their words into the conversation naturally.
- Duration: 20min+
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: 4 to 8 players
- Setting: Indoor or outdoor
- Equipment: Paper and pen
10. Board Games
Board games are a fantastic way to bring everyone together and end the evening on a high note. For a party setting, consider these engaging and easy-to-pick-up games that work well with larger groups:
- Articulate: A lively game where players describe and guess words from categories like ‘Objects’, ‘Places’, and ‘People’ without using the word itself. It’s fast-paced and perfect for generating lots of laughs.
- Herd Mentality: In this fun game, players answer questions and try to match their responses with the majority. The goal is to think like the crowd and avoid being the odd one out.
- Logo Board Game: A game that tests your knowledge of popular brands and logos. Players identify logos and answer questions about brands, making it a fun and interactive choice for partygoers.
These games are ideal for a party environment as they are easy to learn, quick to play, and allow everyone to join in the fun without requiring a lengthy setup.
- Duration: 30 min+ (depends on the game)
- Set-up: 5 min
- Group size: 4 to 8 players
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: The game itself!
11. Time’s Up!
Time’s Up is probably one of the most popular party games out there. You can purchase the official game or can create a makeshift one on the night.
The concept is very simple. Two teams (or more) are formed. In turn, a player from each team picks out a random word (usually a name or an object). They then need to get their team to guess what the word is.
With each round, the complexity escalates. At first, the players can say anything, then they can only say a single word and lastly they can only mime.
You can see a full breakdown of the rules in this article by Ultra Board.
- Duration: 20 min+
- Set-up: 5 min
- Group size: 4 to 10 players
- Setting: Indoor or Outdoor
- Equipment: Minimal (paper slips) or official game
12. Werewolf
Werewolf is one of the most famous role-playing card games. It’s easy to learn and can be played with people of all ages. It’s a great way to bring the energy down at the end of the night.
Once again, you can either buy the official game or create a makeshift version yourself. If you have a good narrator, you can play with the idea of alternate storylines for some more fun.
- Duration: 20 min+
- Set-up: 5 min
- Group size: 7 to 16+ players
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: None (or a card set)
13. Casino Night
If your guests are up for some friendly gambling, casino games are a great option. This isn’t something you can set-up on the fly. It will require some planning.
As a rule of thumb, choose games that are simple and don’t require too much to learn. For example, blackjack and roulette.
If this is the core activity of the night, you might want to have designated “croupiers” who are in charge of their game.
- Duration: 30 min+
- Set-up: N/A
- Group size: Any
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Casino equipment/cards/chips
14. Changing Chairs
Technically this isn’t a game, but it’s a fun activity to do if you’re having a sit-down dinner.
Simply ask every other guest to move one chair to the right between courses (or by using any other shuffling system). This will automatically place them in contact with new neighbours which is an easy way to introduce people and break the ice.
- Duration: Ongoing
- Set-up: N/A
- Group size: Any
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: None
15. Matchmaking Games
If you’re looking for a game to break the ice and help different groups of guests get to know each other, a matchmaking game is a fantastic choice.
The rules can vary, but the core concept remains simple. Assign a random name, item, or tag to each guest. Their task is to find their matching pair based on the clues provided. For example, you might give out pairs like “Salt” and “Pepper” or “Batman” and “Robin.” The goal is for guests to mingle and interact to find their designated match.
To add an extra layer of fun and motivation, consider offering a small prize to the first pair who successfully finds each other. Even a silly prize can add to the enjoyment and encourage everyone to participate enthusiastically. This game not only helps break the ice but also gets people talking and laughing as they search for their match.
- Duration: Ongoing
- Set-up: 15 min+
- Group size: Any
- Setting: Indoor or outdoor
- Equipment: Minimal (name tags)
16. Lawn Games
Lawn games offer a wide range of options, from giant chess sets to croquet, and are perfect for outdoor parties. Simply set them up ahead of time and leave them out for guests to pick up and play at their leisure.
However, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case of unpredictable weather. If rain or other adverse conditions threaten your outdoor activities, consider having some indoor games or activities ready to go. This way, you can ensure that the fun continues regardless of the weather. Keeping a selection of board games or interactive party games on hand will help keep everyone entertained and the party atmosphere lively, no matter what the skies have in store.
- Duration: Ongoing
- Set-up: 10 min+
- Group size: Any
- Setting: Outdoor
- Equipment: Lawn game sets
17. Pictionary
Once again, you can opt for the official version of this game or create a DIY version for your event.
This game is similar to “Time’s Up” but involves drawing instead of verbal clues. To play, split the guests into two teams. Each round, a word is drawn at random, and simultaneously, one player from each team tries to draw the word for their team to guess. The challenge is to convey the word through drawing alone, while their teammates attempt to identify it before time runs out. This game adds a creative twist to the classic guessing game, ensuring plenty of laughs and competition. You can also play this by connecting a tablet device up to a TV screen so lots of people can see all at once.
- Duration: 20min+
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: 4 to 10 players
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Paper & pens, or official game
18. Bingo
Bingo is always extremely popular at parties. Especially if you have a slightly bigger crowd. It’s simple to plan and easy to play.
A different and really fun take on the classic bingo game is music bingo where a DJ will play songs and if you identify a song on your card you cross it off. It’s a great way to play music and play an interactive game at the same time.
- Duration: 20 min+
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: 20+
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Bingo cards (or a DJ, for music bingo)
19. Football and/or Pool Tournament
If you have a football or pool table at your home or venue, organising a tournament can be a fantastic way to engage your guests.
For larger groups (more than 20 people), it’s best to group everyone into teams and kick off with knockout rounds. Group stages can become tedious and time-consuming, so a knockout format keeps the competition lively and fast-paced.
Pro-tip: To keep things moving smoothly, have players prepare for their next matches while others are still playing. After each round, ask the winners to retrieve the next set of players due to compete. Meanwhile, the upcoming players can start their own practice games or casual matches. This helps maintain momentum and keeps the event organised and enjoyable for everyone.
- Duration: Ongoing
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: 12+
- Setting: Indoor or outdoor
- Equipment: A football or pool table
20. Trivia Quiz
Another entertaining DIY activity for your party is a table trivia game, or a ‘pub’ quiz. Simply prepare a series of questions for your guests to answer.
To keep the game engaging and lively, mix silly and humorous questions with a few common knowledge ones. Incorporate personal trivia about the guests to make it even more fun and relatable. The team or individual with the most correct answers at the end wins a prize.
Turn it into a birthday quiz by adding a round of personal questions about the birthday person; guests always enjoy finding out how well they really know them.
Pro-tip: For larger groups, divide everyone into teams and allow them some time to discuss and deliberate on each question. This not only makes the game more interactive but also gives everyone a chance to contribute, enhancing the overall enjoyment and competition.
- Duration: 20 min+
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: 20+
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Prepared questions
21. Murder Mystery Games
The details vary but the concept is always the same: One of the guests is randomly selected to play the role of a murderer. The other attendees must determine who among them is the criminal. This is a great choice for a milestone birthday, it gives the whole evening a real sense of occasion!
How It Works:
- Role Assignment: Each guest receives a role, with one secretly being the murderer. Roles can be assigned with cards, slips of paper, or an app.
- Objective: The murderer’s goal is to avoid detection, while the other guests gather clues and discuss to identify the culprit.
- Gameplay: Clues and interactions unfold through discussions and actions. Players use their deduction skills to piece together the mystery.
- Resolution: At the end of the game, players make their accusations. If they identify the murderer, they win; if not, the murderer succeeds.
A murder mystery game adds excitement and intrigue, ensuring everyone is involved and entertained.
- Duration: Ongoing
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: Any
- Setting: Indoor or Outdoor
- Equipment: Role cards/kit
22. The Post-it Note Game
These games go by many different names: The Name Game, Sticky Head, the Post-it Note game… For some reason, I’ve always referred to this game as “Russian Poker”… but apparently that’s just me.
Regardless of the name, it’s an easy and hilarious game to play at a party.
You can also get an app for this (called Heads Up!)
The benefit is that it makes the name truly random…. But we think Post-its look sillier, and that’s part of the fun!
An easy win for a birthday too, you could even make one note the birthday person’s name and see how long it takes everyone to guess.
How to Play: Write the name of a famous person or character on a sticky note or use an app like Heads Up! Stick the note to your forehead (or hold your phone up) so you can’t see the name but others can. Ask yes-or-no questions to figure out who you are. For example, “Am I a real person?” or “Am I from a movie?” Keep guessing until you correctly identify the name or time runs out.
- Duration: 20min+
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: 4 to 8 players
- Setting: Indoor or outdoor
- Equipment: None (or an app)
23. Video Game Tournament
You can set up a video game tournament for your guests. Ideally, each game should be short and easy to learn. Think Mario Kart. Games like Fifa can be difficult to pick up instantly.
If you have a projector and multiple remotes it will make the activity way more fun. The golden rule is to keep each round short. If the games are too long your other guests will lose interest.
Pro-tip: After each round, ask the players to go and get those players due to play after the next ones. In the meantime, the next players can start their own game.
And if you like this idea, why not go all the way and hire someone to host your gaming party!
- Duration: Ongoing
- Set-up: N/a
- Group size: 12+
- Setting: Indoor
- Equipment: Consoles and screens
Choosing the Perfect Party Game
Choosing the perfect party game can make all the difference. Here are some key points to consider:
- Understand the Mood: Gauge whether your guests are in the mood for learning a new game, sticking to a classic, playing a quick and silly game, or something more immersive. Misjudging the mood can impact how well the game is received.
- Game’s Role in the Event: Determine if the game is a central part of the event or just a side activity. Decide whether you want everyone to participate or if it’s just for those who prefer not to engage in other activities like dancing.
- Hosting Requirements: Some games require planning and active hosting, such as “Pass the Parcel” for adults, while others are more casual and can be left out for guests to start on their own, like lawn games or Cards Against Humanity.
- Number of Participants: Consider how many guests are likely to want to play the game to ensure it’s suitable for the group size.
- Match the Party Theme: If your party has a theme, try to choose a game that complements it. While not always possible, aligning the game with the theme can enhance the overall experience.
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