If you are longing for your weekly get-togethers with friends but can no longer find the time to squeeze in a physical meet, here are a number of board games to play over FaceTime that are entertaining and engaging. No matter your age, number of party members, or amount of time you have to meet, this list will keep the party going!
Games aren’t just for kids and I think everyone is realizing this more and moves on. Children of the 80s have aged and never quite lost their love of gaming and have also raised children used to living in households filled with consoles, board games, and card tricks. It’s just a way of life.
So, if you are ready to play a few board games online through Zoom, FaceTime, or any other online platform with family and friends, I’ve rounded up a variety of great options for you to consider. Keep fun ALIVE!
If you can’t find time to get together, you don’t have to be alone. Thank goodness for technology. And listen, don’t forget about your grandparents that live across the country! They would love to participate, as well.
Fun Board Games To Play Over FaceTime With Friends And Family
Can you play games while on FaceTime?
Yes! FaceTime is the universal video chat service from Apple and while it is primarily used for conversations and screen sharing, there are a variety of different ways you can connect using this tool.
Although personal interactions come first, social distancing has thrown us all for a loop. Technologies like FaceTime have recently played a critical role in helping us all stay in contact with loved ones and now it seems there is no turning back.
What board games can you play on Zoom?
Let’s break down some of our top picks for online gaming through Zoom or FaceTime.
Pictionary
Pictionary is a classic family-friendly game that works perfectly online because it is all about drawing. Friends can take turns drawing their ideas online while the rest of the viewers guess about the design.
The person that owns the game can be the actual HOST and text each member the idea they have to create. Or, members can each have a copy of the board game and grab a few cards out of their boxes.
- This special edition featured above comes with 400 bonus clues!
Chess
Chess is a simple game that has stood the test of time. There are PLENTY of online versions that you can log onto with a friend. So, technically you don’t need to physically have this board game, but if you do it works!
Simply make sure to move the pieces on both boards to be able to follow along with the game. Or have one player manage every move for both players.
- This featured set includes German knight Staunton wooden chess pieces that are handcrafted and made from birch.
Monopoly
I don’t think there is a family in my town that doesn’t own a copy of Monopoly! This makes it a VERY easy game to play online with friends. Just make sure you are playing with HONEST friends because everyone will have access to their own bank and we all know what an extra $500 here and there can do.
- Includes gameboard, 8 Tokens, 28 Title Deed Cards, 16 Chance Cards, 16 Community Chest Cards, 32 Houses, 12 Hotels, 2 Dice, Money Pack and Game Guide
Related: 10 Fun Things to Do Over FaceTime With Friends
Bingo
Bingo!! With Bingo, you will have to do a little legwork. The person that owns the game will have to take a photo of all the cards and send them out to the rest of the players. That way, everyone knows what numbers to look out for while playing.
OR, people could make up their own cards? That’s up to you! The Bingo caller will be the host of the game and call out one number at a time via FaceTime. As soon as someone has 5 numbers in a row, a winner is announced.
- Automatic random ball selector drops ball into base
- Perfect for ages 6 & Up
Related: 12 Easy Card Games For Your Next Family Game Night
Ticket to Ride
My family LOVES Ticket To Ride, but this game needs a special set up. Whoever is the host will have to have their camera focused on the board. That way all players can watch the pieces move around and know what is happening after every turn.
Basically, you have to build train routes across the world and you get more points for longer routes. Hosts need to know that there are also cards that need to be accounted for per team player. So, drink some coffee before diving in!
It’s one of our favorite games to play during family game night. Give it a try.
- Connect iconic European cities and build train routes to earn points
Related: 10 Games To Play With Friends When Bored And Losing Your Mind
Trivial Pursuit
Trivial Pursuit can easily be played via FaceTime. The assigned host can simply move all pieces for you. To play, try to fill your character with all 6 colored wedges ahead of all other players.
There are so many different STYLES available for this game. Are you a movie buff? Into music? Want to focus on the 90s? Pop Culture? Family Edition? Disney Edition? Want the Classic? After decades of fun, I bet there is a series out there for you.
- This Master Edition of the Trivial Pursuit board game includes 2,950 questions.
Scattergories
One of my FAVORITE games to play during the holidays with my family. This will become a fan favorite for you. I am sure!
To play Scattergories, you will need to text everyone a photo of the word list for every round. In order to help you understand the rules, I provided an instructional video. After one round, you will ROLL right through this game and never want to stop.
The important thing to remember is that in order to earn a point, nobody can have the same answer.
- Scattergories game is about speed and creativity
- Word game
Related: Dozens Of Apps To Play With Friends
Codename
Codename is another family game that can be played over Zoom or FaceTime and is ideal for adults and teens. It’s all about finding agents and being observant.
Here is an instructional video to describe how you can play together. Host can take photos of cards and send them around.
- 400 all new words compatible with original codenames
- New cooperative gameplay
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Are You Ready For Some Fun?
There are endless games that can be played over a video call. Though this list isn’t exhaustive, it points point us in the right direction for some games that are the least demanding and generally fun.