Tips for Hosting A Board Game Night

Are you a university student looking to break away from textbooks and lectures for a night of laughter, and friendly competition? Look no further than our guide on hosting the ultimate board game night! 

Board games offer the perfect escape from the rigours of academic life, providing a chance to unwind, socialise, and showcase your gaming skills. Whether you’re a board game enthusiast or a newbie, our tips and tricks will ensure your board game night is a hit.

From game selection to snacks and ambience, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the art of hosting a memorable board game night for university students!
A bun of people playing board games

Plan ahead

The best way to make sure that you are hosting a great board game night is to plan ahead of time. Make sure to give yourself at least a couple of weeks before the day so you can get the things you need without stressing out!

Although it seems straightforward, trust us when we tell you that you need to plan ahead of time to manage a lot of people. Especially people high on their competitive spirit!

A man wearing brown shit writing on a paper , planning on hosting a board game night

Save money on board games 

It is no surprise that you will need a good amount of Board games to be able to host a good board game night.

However, you don’t need to spend loads on buying brand-new games just for one night. The best place to get board games for an affordable price is charity shops!

Although you will need to search around for a bit, you will surely be able to find some hidden gems at great prices.

You can browse online on websites like eBay and Vinted to find second-hand board games as well. If you are lucky, you will be able to find a bunch of different games being sold for under £20!

Click here to read a blog on 8 Online Sites For Second-Hand Shopping

Another option to get more games without spending a lot is to request the guests to each bring one game. But always make sure to discuss the games ahead of time so everyone doesn’t show up with Monopoly.

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Choose interesting games

While games like UNO, Monopoly and Ludo are board game classics, you can definitely consider making the night more fun by choosing new and interesting games. 

Here are some interesting games that you could consider while hosting a board game night:


Guess Who 

This is a 2-player game where both the players will have cards with the same characters. Both of them will have to ask each other questions to find out, which character the other person has. The first one to find out with the least amount of questions wins!


Herd Mentality 

This game can be played by 4-20 players at a time, making it ideal for a board game night. In this game, one person will ask the questions, and the players will have to write down their answers. Whoever has the same answer wins a “cow” and the first one to collect 8 “cows” wins. So to win the game is simple, just think like everyone else!

Linkee

Linkee is an amped-up version of a trivia game where the players are supposed to write down the answers to the 4 trivia questions asked, and when the clue is revealed, they will have to find the link between the 4 answers.

Top Of The Pops

This is an exciting music-themed game that is guaranteed to fill the room with laughter. The player will have  3 different clues to describe three artists. This will be one word to describe an artist, lyric from the artist and finally the best part, play the song on the kazoo given! Whichever player gets the most amount of right guesses wins!

People playing board games

Explain the game instructions clearly

There is nothing worse than a bunch of clueless players trying to figure out how to play a game. Or worse, arguing mid-game because they got the instructions wrong. 

This is why it is best to describe the instructions for the game as clearly as possible so you can keep the board game night enjoyable for everyone. 

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Be mindful while deciding on the games

Another factor to consider while hosting a board game night is ensuring that everyone gets to play the games. You won’t want to only get 4 player games with 6 guests and have 2 people always sit out.

So make sure to consider the number of people you are inviting while deciding on the games, so everyone feels included. 

People having fun in a game night -tips for hosting a board game night

Get some snacks ready 

All the competition is probably going to make everyone hungry, so it is always good to get some snacks ready ahead of time. This doesn’t have to be a 3-course meal, but rather simple finger foods so they can snack on something while playing. 

You could get popcorn, crisps and other light snacks so that it is enjoyable without being messy while playing.

A group of people in a sofa snacking

Keep track of everyone’s score

While this is not necessary, keeping track of everyone’s scores can be a fun way to motivate everyone. 

This shouldn’t be very strict but rather some friendly competition to get everyone excited. 

You can also decide on a small gift for the final winner, so the players have something to look forward to.

Score board that reads 6 and 3 in yellow

Keep the noise levels low

Whether you are hosting a board game night in your student accommodation or an apartment, it is always good to keep the noise levels low so it doesn’t disturb the neighbours. 

People usually get loud when they are competing with each other and excited, so it is good to mention ahead of time to keep the sounds low and to be mindful of others.

You wouldn’t want noise complaints just for one night of fun!

People playing board games

In conclusion, hosting a board game night at university can be a fantastic way to unwind, bond with friends, and create lasting memories. By following the tips mentioned earlier, you can ensure that your game night is a great success. 

Follow us on Instagram @universalstudentliving and let us know your favourite board games. 

If you are looking for next year’s accommodation, visit our Universal Student Living website and browse through a range of properties to find your next home!

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