In an age dominated by screens and endless notifications, even millennials can find joy in the simple yet profound act of gathering around a table for game night. All it takes is finding the right game. From quirky card games to strategic board games, here’s a deep dive into some of the most beloved games millennials are raving about—and why they’re so popular for spicing up any get-together.

Exploding Kittens

What happens when adorable kittens meet ticking time bombs? You get Exploding Kittens, a wildly entertaining game that combines unpredictable mayhem with irresistible feline charm. The gameplay is simple: avoid drawing an exploding kitten card at all costs. The result? A delightful mix of strategy, luck, and sheer hilarity.

The game’s appeal lies in its tongue-in-cheek humor and whimsical illustrations, courtesy of The Oatmeal comics. Millennials, who grew up on internet memes and cat videos, can’t resist its playful absurdity. And if the standard deck isn’t chaotic enough, expansions like Imploding Kittens and Barking Kittens add even more mayhem, guaranteeing your game night never goes stale.

Cards Against Humanity

When it comes to games that push the envelope, Cards Against Humanity reigns supreme. Billed as “a party game for horrible people,” it invites players to pair risqué, absurd, or downright offensive responses to prompts, resulting in outrageous combos that spark uncontrollable laughter.

This game thrives on millennial humor—the sarcastic, irreverent, and boundary-pushing kind that defines internet culture. For added spice, themed expansion packs (think: ‘90s Nostalgia, Millennials, or Sci-Fi) cater to every friend group’s quirks. Just remember: the more awkward your answers, the better the game gets.

Codenames

If deciphering riddles and uncovering secrets sounds like your idea of fun, Codenames is the game for you. Players split into teams and attempt to guess words on a grid based on single-word clues from their team’s spymaster. The goal? Reveal all your team’s secret agents before the opposing side does—without stumbling upon the deadly assassin word.

What makes Codenames so appealing is its blend of strategy, creativity, and social deduction. Millennials love it for its fast pace and versatility, whether you’re playing with hardcore strategists or casual word enthusiasts. Plus, its family-friendly nature means it’s a hit at Friendsgiving dinners or holiday gatherings with mixed-age groups.

The Mind: Silent but Deadly (Fun)

If ever a game embodied the phrase “less is more,” it’s The Mind. Players work together to place cards in numerical order without speaking, relying solely on intuition and nonverbal communication. The challenge lies in syncing your “minds” with your teammates, creating a surprisingly intense experience out of such a simple concept.

For millennials, who often feel oversaturated by constant digital chatter, The Mind offers a refreshing escape. It’s a quiet yet engaging game that forces players to slow down, focus, and connect in a uniquely thoughtful way. Winning feels as triumphant as surviving a group project with that one flakey teammate who actually pulled through.

Wingspan: A Soothing Flight into Strategy

Sometimes, you want a game that’s less about chaos and more about calm competition. Enter Wingspan, a board game where players become bird enthusiasts, building habitats and attracting various bird species to their wildlife reserves.

With its stunning artwork, educational flair, and intricate gameplay, Wingspan is tailor-made for millennials who love to flex their brains while enjoying a touch of escapism. Its mix of strategy and beauty is as appealing as your best aesthetic Pinterest board. And for those who geek out over obscure hobbies, it’s the perfect way to impress your friends with random bird facts.

New Favorites on the Block

The tabletop world is constantly expanding, and millennials are always on the lookout for the next big hit. Here are a few rising stars that are quickly becoming staples at game nights:

  • Bears vs. Babies: From the creators of Exploding Kittens, this game tasks players with assembling bizarre monsters to battle adorable yet aggressive baby armies. Its quirky humor is a surefire hit for lovers of all things weird and wonderful.
  • Gloomhaven: For those who want a more immersive experience, Gloomhaven offers a cooperative RPG adventure. It’s perfect for friend groups who love epic storytelling and tactical challenges.
  • Jackbox Party Packs: While not a traditional board game, these digital party games (played via phones and a shared screen) have become game-night legends. Titles like Fibbage and Quiplash tap into millennials’ love for quick wit and creative thinking.

Whether you’re dodging exploding kittens, channeling your inner spy, or showing off your bird knowledge, one thing’s for sure: game nights are a timeless tradition with a millennial twist that’ll never go out of style.