Entertaining kids can be a serious assignment in and of itself. Therefore, we consistently seek affordable means to keep not just the children, but the entire family entertained. This is where the concept of family game night comes into the picture. However, the challenge usually lies in knowing where to start when setting up a budget-friendly game night. Two major factors influence our choice of family games: affordability, and their potential for providing enjoyment to the entire family. With children aged between 8 and 15, finding a universally suitable game can sometimes prove difficult. That said, we have curated an assortment of budget-friendly game-night options from our favorites. It is our hope that you find at least one or two that will bring you fun at your next game night!
1. JACKBOX
Jackbox.tv, our top favorite game for the year, is a digital game introduced to me by my eldest child. A couple of major perks come with playing Jackbox as a family. The first perk is that the game can be played from any device. Seven of us usually start the game on our Xbox (which is where we initially purchased the games), and everyone else plays using a phone, tablet, or laptop.
Another advantage of the Jackbox collection is that it consists of six different party packs, each with five distinct games. Each party pack can be purchased for a one-time fee, which allows you to play the games anytime you want. The party packs typically cost between $20 and $30; however, they frequently go on sale, enabling us to buy two of our four packs at reduced prices. Some games might not be suitable for very young children owing to their contextual content, but every party pack contains at least one or two games that are universally appropriate.
2. HEADS UP
Heads Up is a fun, charade-like game that we’ve had in our collection for some time. In the game, each player wears a headband holding prompt cards. One player shuffles the cards and places a few face-out in each player’s headband. Gameplay revolves around guessing and acting out the clues on the cards within set time limits, often leading to hilarious results. We purchased this game on sale for $17, although it typically costs around $20.
3. BLOKUS
Blokus, which we discovered in a game store years ago, is a strategy game about placing colored shapes on a board. The goal is to play all your shapes first, but each subsequent piece has to touch another of your pieces, making the game quite strategic. This entertaining game is suitable for any occasion and costs between $22 and $30.
4. CARDS
Endless possibilities abound once you have a deck of cards. We use playing cards, which are not only reasonably priced but also offer plenty of game options. We enjoy playing Gin, Heart, Rummy, Spades, and War during our family game nights.
5. PICTIONARY
Pictionary is a classic family game. The game, which is simple yet hilarious, involves drawing a prompt on a card within a time limit and having others guess what it is. It costs around $20.
6. UNO
UNO, a great card game for family nights, promises nostalgia and fun. Each player plays a card of the same color or number as the previous card laid down or plays an action card. If you cannot, you draw cards from the deck until you find a playable card. It sells for $10 to $15 in most stores or online.
7. APPLES TO APPLES
Apples to Apples is an enjoyable game for both adults and children. It has multiple versions and expansion packs, which can add diversity to game night. Costing between $15 and $30, the game involves matching adjectives and nouns and can be played by slightly older children or younger ones using the Junior version.
8. CLUE
Clue is a game close to my heart from my childhood, and I’m thrilled that a few of the kids enjoy it too. The game involves choosing a character, distributing cards, and guessing the murderer, weapon, and room. This strategy game is sold online and in most retailers for around $20.
9. THE VOTING GAME
The Voting Game is one of our favorite family night adventures, although discretion must be used to keep younger players involved. The players vote on prompt cards about who they feel matches the prompt the most. The player with the most votes at the end of the game wins. The Voting Game can be typically bought for between $20 and $25.
10. PUZZLES
Puzzles can add a unique twist to any family game night and are very affordable. You can pick up various puzzles for as low as $1. We have an assortment of 100-250 piece puzzles for when the young ones are playing with us or more complex 500 piece puzzles for an adult challenge.
In summary, a kaleidoscope of games exists for family game night. Your choice will depend mainly on the cost and its suitability for your family structure. Here are our family’s current favorite games:
– Jackbox.tv
– Heads Up
– Blokus
– Cards
– Pictionary
– Uno
– Apples to Apples
– Clue
– The Voting Game
– Puzzles
Regardless of the games you end up trying, one thing is certain- fun is guaranteed. With these affordable games, you can keep both your family entertained and your wallet happy. What are some budget-friendly games you enjoy on your family game night?
