A family game night on phones: card and board games for mixed ages
A family game night on phones with card and board games for mixed ages. Which apps to load, how to run the evening and how to keep younger players in.
A family game night does not need a table full of boxes. A phone can hold a set of card and board games, and the family can choose the one that suits the room. The trick is to plan the order, keep the younger players involved, and keep rounds short enough that nobody waits too long.
Pick games for the youngest
Ludo is easy for young children and quick to finish. Lucky 9 is simple enough for a child who can add small numbers. Board Club from Play Boom Games has classic board games for the younger end of the table.
Bring in the older players
Adults can move to 29, Callbreak or Tongits. Our 29 guide explains the bidding game, and Tongits King is a three-player game with bots in the other seats.
Keep it moving
Keep rounds short. Let the youngest player pick the game, and let them take the first turn. Rotate the dealer so everyone gets a turn at the top of the table.
Get it
Questions people ask
Which games suit a mixed-age family?
Ludo and carrom for the youngest, and Lucky 9 or Board Club for a wider range. Adults can move to 29, Callbreak or Tongits.
How do I keep younger players in?
Give them a turn early, let them pick the game, and keep rounds short.
What order works best?
Start with the shortest game, then move to a longer one. Finish with the game the adults most want to play.
Do I need one phone per player?
Not for board or card games against bots. A shared phone works for most of these.
Which apps are offline?
Board Club, Masti ADDA, Tongits King and Lucky 9 are described as offline by Play Boom Games. Check the Board Adda listing.
Where can I find the guides?
Our board night guide and offline card apps list cover the apps in more detail.