RELAX WITH GAME NIGHT
Finding old-time family fun amid plugged-in world
When my kids were young, a strategically-placed whoopee cushion guaranteed laughs. They’re now in their mid-20s and a game called Brain Fart is having a similar effect, as evidenced by the groans and giggles it generated on a recent game night around our kitchen island.
In a nutshell, you roll nine big cubes to get categories that include topics like ‘gross things’ and ‘buffet foods.’ You then press the brain timer to generate a letter and start the random timer. Players take turns naming something that’s in one of the categories and starts with the letter displayed. If the brain farts during your turn, the round ends and you must take a chip. The goal is to be the player with the least chips.
Brain Fart was among several games PlayMonster sent along to try out and has become a goto on game nights with family or friends. We also discovered its 5 Second Rule Spintensity, a new version of 5 Second Rule (the one Ellen DeGeneres and her celebrity friends play on her TV talk show) that’s also become a favourite.
The games have helped recharge board game nights, which we regularly enjoy. And we’re hardly the only ones who enjoy an evening of games.
“We live in an increasingly plugged-in world, which we think has led to people wanting to find more ways to disconnect from their screens and connect face-toface with friends and family,” says Matt Elmer, category manager of toy with Indigo.
“Games and puzzles are a fun and inexpensive way to spend that quality time and are more accessible than ever. The increasing popularity of games cafés has also played a part in helping make board game culture more mainstream,” he says.
Some of Indigo’s most popular games are competitive and fastpaced party games and include Throw Throw Burrito, Blockbuster: The Game, Buzzed and Cards Against Humanity.
“We’re also seeing that nostalgia is a big trend overall that appeals to the demographic that grew up with it, as well as younger generations.
“Blockbuster: The Game is a great example of this. The game looks like a VHS tape and even includes a replica of a Blockbuster parking lot, offering hours of fun.”
Game night is a casual, laidback event that requires little planning.
How many games should you break out? “Having a good variety of games on hand that appeal to all experience levels makes everyone feels welcome and excited to participate,” says Elmer, who recommends playing two to three games.
“We always recommend having a few different types including trivia games, strategy games and drawing games to keep things interesting and play to different strengths.”
Elmer’s personal favourite is Catchphrase, where you pass the game around like a hot potato and have your teammates guess the secret word before the timer runs out.
“It’s the perfect game for any occasion,” he assures. “It’s handheld, has simple rules, is fast to play and works for any age group or experience level. I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t love that game.”
Beth Muehlenkamp, brand manager with PlayMonster, also recommends having a few games options to choose from.
“If one isn’t working, feel free to adapt the rules or move on to another. I always like to try out a new game, but still have my group’s go-to favourite as a way to end the night,” she says.
Of course, no games night is complete without snacks and creating a theme is a fun way to tie the whole evening together. If you’re playing a game like Blockbuster that brings up nostalgic feelings, think about incorporating foods from that decade, Elmer suggests.
If playing boardgames, set up chairs around a kitchen or other table or line the coffee table with floor cushions. For group games, move furniture into a semi-circle so everyone can have a seat and enjoy the fun.
A final tip: don’t forget to have the correct batteries and other game essentials, such as pencils, on hand if required.