The holiday season is in full swing, and with so many celebrations still to come in the next few days, one might be looking for the perfect game to plug in to play with friends and family. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. From racing, cooking, or meme-making, there’s no doubt you’ll have a good time playing one of the multiplayer games on this list. Here are TheGamer’s top five multiplayer games for the holiday season.
5. Quiplash (PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One)
Want to show off your creativity and wit to an audience? Download Quiplash, a hilarious game from the creative minds at Jackbox Party. This 3-8 player game is part-Cards Against Humanity and part-Evil Apples. Quiplash presents players with ridiculously creative prompts for players to fill in, such as “The worst soup flavor: Cream of _____.” or “Something you’d be surprised to see a donkey do." Watch as answers get pitted against two players and sit back as the rest of the audience votes on their favorite.
More than eight people in your party? Not a problem. Players waiting to get in on the next game can still vote on answers and laugh along. A perfect game for a full household to enjoy!
4. Overcooked 2 (PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One)
Overcooked 2 is a recipe for success if you’re looking for a fun and engaging game to save your bland and unseasoned evening. This cooking simulator game hosts up to four players for a fun and food-filled affair. Work alongside your team or compete against each other to prepare outrageous orders in some of the weirdest and wackiest restaurants you can imagine (e.g. a hot air balloon, an iceberg, etc). Take on even crazier challenges and work against the clock maneuvering among obstacles such as moving floors, portals, and in-kitchen fires.
Want to connect with a faraway friend? Utilize the game’s online multiplayer feature, which will match you with strangers or friends online so they can join in the fun as well.
3. Super Mario Party (Nintendo Switch)
Mario and his friends are no stranger to party games, and the Super Mario series is a classic in the multiplayer game genre. Super Mario Party is the latest entry in the series and can host up to four players per game. Players roll the die on a unique board and follow the instructions on each space in an attempt to collect the most gold stars. In addition to the board game aspect, each round ends with a fun mini-game for all players.
If you’re in a rush and don’t have the time for a full game, utilize the game’s settings and change the rules for a brief game with a modified number of turns. Or if you’re just in the mood for quick and easy mini-games, Super Mario Party has 80 unique games you can play to your heart’s content.
2. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo Switch)
A classic in the gaming world, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is always a great game to play with friends and family. Play with up to four players, choose your rider, customize your kart, pick a Grand Prix tournament, and get racing. With fan-favorite courses like Royal Raceway, Baby Park, and Rainbow Road, this game has something for everyone.
Don’t have time for four full races in a Grand Prix? Also not an issue. You can pick individual courses to race on as well!
1. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Nintendo Switch)
The ultimate party multiplayer console game, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a surefire crowd-pleaser. This fan-favorite fighting game can host up to eight players, features nearly 80 different characters and over 100 unique stages, each round promises a fun experience for all. Want even more individualized fun? Change things up with a set number of lives, time limits, and stamina amounts for a truly unique game each time.
For a fun party idea, start your own in-party Smash Bros. tournament and challenge each of your guests individually to a one-on-one battle. Once you’re defeated, let the new champion take your place, and keep playing as the night goes on. It’ll be a party to remember!
