Parents at Play: Options abound for family game night
Here are a few games that are sure to amuse and entertain — including a few designed to be amusing and entertaining after the kiddies have gone to bed.
WHAT COMES TO MIND?
Endless Games
Most of us go back and forth between thinking everyone else thinks just like we do and being amazed when they don’t. This fast-paced matching game will let you figure out exactly how well you actually know the people you think you know (plus it’s a great way to get to know people you don’t already know). Under $15. For three or more players, ages 10-plus. endlessgames.com
VILLAINOUS
Wonder Forge
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Players play as one of six Disney villains: Maleficent, Jafar, Ursula, Captain Hook, Queen of Hearts and Prince John, using cards that list the villain’s special abilities and skills. Another deck has heroes each villain needs to take out to win. The rules are a little complex, but once you get going, you’ll discover just how fun it is to get your evil on. Under $32. 2-6 players, ages 10 and older. wonderforge.com
EXIT: THE GAME. DEAD MAN ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS
Thames & Kosmos
Combine an escape-the-room team challenge with taut murder mystery on a speeding train and you’ve got a recipe for a few solid tech-free hours of clues, puzzles, codes, solutions, arguments and fun. Unlike some escape-the-room games, this one can be played only once (because you’ll be marking, folding and tearing things up). About $10. On to four players, ages 12 and older. thamesandkosmos.com
DUDE
North Star Games
Since there’s only one answer in this game, this is truly a time when how you say something is more important than what you say. All players have identical decks of cards, each evoking a different way of saying “dude.” Players pick one, then, all at the same time, read “dude,” the way the card tells them to. Think you match with someone? Say “sweeeet.” If you’re right, you score. About $21. Three to six players, 13 and older. northstargames.com
FAMILY FEUD AFTER HOURS
Endless Games
Whether you’re old enough to remember Family Feud’s original host, Richard Dawson, or you’re a fan of Steve Harvey, now’s your chance to play this deceptively simple game for real. Come up with your very own answers and then see what “Our survey says ….” About $17.50. Three or more players, ages 17-plus. endlessgames.com
