7 Tips for Planning a Gaming Party

7 Tips for Planning a Unforgettable Gaming Party

Is it your turn to host the next gathering with friends?

Does the idea of sitting around the table and engaging in small talk all evening sound incredibly boring to you?

Why not plan an evening that is all about fun and excitement?

Gaming parties are always a hit and are a great way for people to relax. Even if you’ve hosted gaming parties in the past, why not look for ways to elevate your typical offering and treat your guests to a memorable evening? 

Video Gaming Party

Here are 7 tips for planning a gaming party 

Be Prepared with a Variety of Games

Because everyone has different preferences when it comes to games, a good host will be prepared and have a variety of options available. You can rotate through all the options so that there’s no chance of getting bored and there is a little something for everyone. Some games are going to be more engaging than others, so they will generate a lot more excitement and chatter.

Other than cards and board games, why not think outside the box and take advantage of technology? If you’ve got a laptop or tablet, then you can engage in online gaming – simply pass the device around. There are plenty of fun online games, but it’s online casinos that tend to be a crowd-pleaser at parties. Many are familiar with the traditional casino-style games so you don’t have to worry about teaching people the rules.

To save yourself hassle you can check out these easy to read online casino reviews at Online Casinos. You’ll be able to view all the highlights of the top regulated UK casinos including the welcome bonus offered. Welcome bonuses tend to increase gameplay, which will be perfect for your games night.

Food and Beverages are Almost as Important as the Games

The emphasis of a gaming party should be on the games, and for good reason, but pulling up as a close second is the food and beverages you plan on serving. Let’s face it, your menu can make or break your party. How many times have you gone to someone’s house only to leave hungry or wish there were other options available at the party?

The first tip is to make sure you have enough food and beverages; you don’t want to run out. The next tip is to think about ease of eating. When you’re hosting a gaming party it’s an active type of gathering. People don’t want anything too involved to eat, and they certainly don’t want to sit at a table to enjoy it. Instead, think in terms of small portions, finger foods and snacks. Things should be pre-cut and sized to perfection.

You also want to be sure you consider any dietary restrictions your guests may have. This could include vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free diets, allergies and so forth. There needs to be options for each guest, regardless of any restrictions they may have.

Food should be prepared in advance and ready to go so you’re not wasting the party cooking. A good host engages with guests.

Some of the foods you can serve buffet style, allowing guests to pick and choose what they want, include:

• Veggies and dip
• Sliced fruit
• Crackers
• Deli and artisan cheeses
• Bite-sized sandwiches
• Crisps and dip
• Popcorn
• Brownies (pre-cut)
• Cupcakes
• Cookies
• Bite-sized tarts

As for beverages, it’s the same sort of tips as the food. Make sure you’ve got enough and offer a variety of drinks to choose from.

How Will Seating Work?

A gaming party isn’t the type of gathering where people are standing around and mingling. Everyone should have a comfortable place to sit so they can engage in the gameplay. This could mean you need to shuffle the furniture around in the room or you may need to bring in extra seating just for the party. Folding chairs can be a great option as they don’t take up a lot of room, yet they are comfortable enough for a party.

Set the Tone with Music

Another thing that a great party has is music that helps set the tone. Whatever you pick should be upbeat without being obnoxious. It also needs to be light and fun but not too loud. It is background music only, as people need to be able to carry on a conversation. 7 Tips for Planning a Gaming Party

How About Décor?

Speaking of setting the tone, you can add to the atmosphere with décor. Choosing a theme will make things easier and help you to figure out what to pick up. You can pick a game-related theme, a superhero, a popular movie, a casino theme, a beach theme or anything else that sparks your interest. Again, keep it light and fun.

Give Your Guests Enough Notice

Just like with any party, you need to give your guests enough notice. For a casual game night, it's best to ask them one to two weeks in advance. This is also your opportunity to give them any additional details they may need. 7 Tips for Planning a Gaming Party

As an added tip, you can tailor the guest list and the number of people you invite based on the games you plan on playing. Some games are better with a larger crowd, while others work better with just a small number.

Don’t Worry About Things Being “Perfect”

The final tip is to relax, let things slide and don’t worry about things having to be perfect. You are likely the only person that is going to notice if things don’t go as planned so there is no point in letting it ruin the party for you. People aren’t going to remember small details; they will remember laughing, having fun, and playing a variety of great games. 7 Tips for Planning a Gaming Party

Be Prepared to Be the Permanent Games Night Host

Thanks to all these tips, your preparation, and your hard work, you need be prepared to be named the permanent games night host among your group of friends. When you pull something off as flawlessly as you will, it’s bound to happen.