Last Updated on: 18th March 2026, 10:21 am
If you’ve ever tried to organise a “family games night” only to be met with eye rolls, sibling arguments, or someone dramatically flopping onto the sofa declaring “this is boring”… you are absolutely not alone. I’ve got a 10-year-old daughter and an 8-year-old son, and let me tell you: finding games that everyone enjoys (including the grown-ups!) can feel like a bit of a mission.
But when you get it right? It’s honestly one of the best ways to spend time together. No pressure, no screens (well… sometimes…), just proper laughs and a bit of healthy competition.
So if you’re looking for family games that actually work for mixed ages, here are some of our tried-and-tested favourites—covering board games, outdoor fun, and yes… even video games.
🎲 Best Family Board Games
Let’s start with the classics – but with a modern twist.
1. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
This is chaotic, fast-paced, and absolutely hilarious and you can pick up the rules in seconds. Perfect if your kids love a bit of silliness (mine definitely do).
2. Uno
We’ve added our own twists – like stacking cards and dramatic penalties – which somehow makes it even more competitive (and slightly unhinged). We recently purchased the ‘No Mercy’ variant which sounds like great fun – can’t wait to play it.
3. Dobble
Brilliant for quick rounds. It’s great for kids of different ages because it’s all about observation rather than knowledge.
4. Monopoly Deal
A MUCH quicker version of Monopoly (thank goodness). You still get the drama, but without committing your entire evening.
5. Articulate for Kids
This one is surprisingly good for getting everyone involved—and it’s quite funny seeing how kids describe things.
🌿 Easy Outdoor Family Games
When the weather’s even slightly decent (we are in the UK after all), getting outside just lifts everyone’s mood.
6. Garden Obstacle Course
We’ve done this with cones, skipping ropes, footballs – whatever’s lying around. Let the kids design it and then time each other.
7. Water Balloon Games
In summer, this is a guaranteed win with the added bonus of cooling everyone down.
8. Scavenger Hunts
I LOVE these. You can theme them around anything – nature, colours, even “things beginning with…” It’s also a great one if your child prefers more independent play.
9. Swingball or Garden Tennis
Perfect for burning off energy and a bit of friendly competition.
10. Chalk Games
Hopscotch, target throwing, or even creating your own “board game” on the patio.
🎮 Family-Friendly Video Games
I used to feel a bit guilty about including video games in “family time”… but honestly, when you’re playing together, it’s a completely different experience.
11. Mario Kart
This is chaos in the best way. Equal parts fun and rivalry and I love how you can modify the difficulty so even younger kids can compete.
12. Minecraft (Creative Mode)
My 8-year-old especially loves this. Building worlds together can actually be really calming—and you can join in without needing expert skills.
13. Roblox Games
There are loads of family-friendly options if you pick carefully. Obby (obstacle) games are a big hit in our house as well as the various hide and seek games.
14. Just Dance
This is SO much fun and a sneaky bit of exercise too. Expect a lot of laughing.
15. Overcooked
If you want teamwork… and a bit of shouting… this one is brilliant.
Final thoughts: You don’t need a perfectly planned “games night” with snacks in matching bowls and a Pinterest-worthy setup (although… no judgement if you do).
Sometimes the best moments come from:
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A spontaneous game after dinner
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A quick round of cards before bed
- Killing time at the airport with a portable game
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Or a slightly chaotic family Mario Kart tournament
The key is just finding what works for your family and going with it.
If you’ve got any family game favourites, I’d LOVE to hear them. I’m always on the lookout for new ideas!
