Thanksgiving is supposed to center around gratitude, including the precious time we get to spend with family and friends. Yet, these gatherings often come with their own set of challenges, such as delicate political discussions or probing inquiries about your future plans. If you’re in need of something to smooth over the social dynamics, or simply want a fun activity to engage everyone, introducing a multiplayer party game might be the perfect solution.

Recognizing that not everyone at your holiday event will be a seasoned gamer, I’ve selected a range of party games that are easy to understand and quick to get into. While your grandmother might not be eager to play Mario Party, you could certainly entice your cousins into joining you for some gaming fun.

A great starting point is any installment of the Jackbox Party Pack series. These games are incredibly accessible, requiring nothing more than a smartphone to participate. Once set up on a large screen, everyone can join in by simply entering a lobby code on their phones, no game controllers necessary.

Each Jackbox game pack includes five different games, generally supporting two to eight players. The games are designed to encourage interaction and provide comic relief, making them a great choice for group entertainment. They’re compatible with virtually all gaming platforms, including PCs and Apple TV.

As mentioned, Mario Party is a classic choice, and any version of the game will serve well. Party games serve as an excellent backdrop for any gathering, offering a focal point for guests when conversation lulls and a bit of friendly competition.

Up to four can play Mario Party at once, navigating a digital board game interspersed with various mini-games. The primary limitation is its availability only on Nintendo consoles, which might be an issue if no one brings a compatible system. However, if someone has an older Nintendo console like a Wii, you might be ready to start the game without any extra preparation.

On the horizon is Lego Party, a newcomer that channels the spirit of Mario Party but isn’t restricted to Nintendo’s consoles. Although you won’t find Nintendo characters, the gameplay remains familiar and just as engaging.

If you’re looking for something that might require a bit more attention but offers richer rewards, consider exploring some lesser-known titles. Ultimate Chicken Horse is a competitive platformer where players not only race to the finish but also place obstacles on the map to thwart their opponents. It’s as chaotic as it is entertaining.

Don’t miss out on UFO 50, a collection of 50 retro-inspired games. While all the games are worth trying, Party House stands out with its unique deck-building elements, where players compete to throw the best party. Also check out Bushido Ball and Quibble Race, also part of the UFO 50 suite available on PC and Switch.

For those willing to explore quirky indie games, Worms W.M.D. offers a blend of comedy and strategy where you control armed worms in destructible environments. It’s a deep, turn-based game that supports up to four players across multiple platforms.

Another inventive title, Mosa Lina, is a co-op platformer where players use random abilities to navigate levels together. It’s a game that celebrates creativity and teamwork, perfect for cooperative play.

Finally, if you’re looking for a frenetic and fun experience, try Towerfall. This archery combat game is simple to learn but challenging to master, offering hours of competitive fun for up to six players.

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