How to Host a Themed Games Night That Everyone Will Remember

Sep 1

A good games night starts long before the first round.

Friends playing cards around a table with snacks and drinks during a games night.

From the theme to the snacks, a few thoughtful details can turn an ordinary night in into one everyone remembers.

A games night can be an amazing way to bring together a like-minded group of people. Whether you’re looking to have fun with your immediate family or friends, or you’re looking to take things more seriously with a long-term campaign in a specialised game, getting every element of your game night right can require a little bit of planning.

So, what elements might you consider?

Pick a Creative Theme

To begin with, you’ll need to pick a good theme. The theme is what will allow the night in question to stand apart when you come to remember it later on. It will help you to avoid your night from being indistinguishable from every other night of its kind.

Your theme might inform everything from your food, to your music, to the games themselves. For example, you might pick arcade games from a given year, or casino classics, or even one particular niche game.

Set the Scene

The theme shouldn’t just be limited to the screen (or the tabletop). It should also help you to make decisions around decor and lighting. You might seek to make special arrangements when it comes to music by repositioning your speakers and allowing sound from the TV to spread throughout the house. This might require a little bit of technical nous, so make sure that everything works before your guests arrive.

Plan a Mix of Games

In most cases, it’s better to pick a range of different games. That way, you can keep things a little bit novel, and prevent people from getting bored with what’s on offer. For example, you might include a round or two of bingo at regular points throughout the evening. This has the advantage of a shallow learning curve, and plenty of fun (especially when prizes are on offer!).

Serve Themed Snacks

Getting a few items of food prepared can help to lend special character to your evening. Think about those little snacks that can be prepared well in advance, and reheated as they’re required. That way, you won’t need to worry about spending too much time in the kitchen when the fun’s going on.

Capture the Memories

You’ll want to be able to look back fondly on this occasion, and so it makes sense to take a few photos at opportune moments throughout the evening. Try to anticipate these and get your phone out at the right time!