Guardian Insider

In a world that’s more connected than ever, online games have become a central hub for friendship, laughter, and shared experiences. Whether you’re across the room or across the globe, online multiplayer games offer a perfect way to hang out virtually, test your teamwork, or simply enjoy a good laugh with your favorite people. From casual mobile apps to intense multiplayer games on PC and console, there’s something for every type of group.

Let’s dive into the top online games that guarantee group fun—perfect for game nights, virtual parties, or weekend chill sessions with friends.


1. Among Us – Trust No One

Platforms: PC, Mobile, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation
Best For: 4–15 players

“Among Us” is the social deduction game that took the world by storm during the pandemic—and for good reason. Set on a spaceship, crewmates must complete tasks while impostors sabotage and eliminate them. The real fun begins in the discussion phases, where players try to figure out who the impostors are.

This game thrives on lies, accusations, and hilarious misunderstandings, making it ideal for friend groups who enjoy mystery, deception, and good-natured chaos.

Why it’s great:

  • Easy to learn, hard to master
  • Great for voice chat and laughs
  • Works well with large groups

2. Jackbox Party Packs – The Ultimate Party Game Collection

Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Mobile (via browser)
Best For: 3–8 players (some games up to 10+)

Jackbox Games are the ultimate party pleasers. Each Party Pack includes 5 unique mini-games ranging from trivia to drawing contests, wordplay, and bluffing challenges. Players connect via phone or browser, making it super accessible.

Games like Fibbage, Quiplash, and Drawful are favorites for their humor and creativity. Whether your group is witty, artistic, or sarcastic, there’s a game that will highlight your strengths (or expose your hilarious weaknesses).

Why it’s great:

  • No extra controllers needed
  • Hilarious and unpredictable outcomes
  • New packs released regularly

3. Minecraft – Endless Creativity and Adventure

Platforms: PC, Console, Mobile
Best For: 2–30+ players

Minecraft is the sandbox game that lets your imagination run wild. Whether you’re building elaborate structures, exploring dungeons, or creating an entire world from scratch, this game can be anything you want it to be.

With multiplayer servers and realms, groups of friends can collaborate on huge builds, challenge each other in PvP (player vs. player) arenas, or even roleplay in custom-made maps. For friends who love to build, explore, and survive together, Minecraft is a timeless classic.

Why it’s great:

  • Limitless creativity
  • Customizable with mods and texture packs
  • Suitable for all ages

4. Fortnite – Build, Battle, Survive

Platforms: PC, Console, Mobile
Best For: 2–100 players

Epic Games’ Fortnite isn’t just a battle royale; it’s a virtual playground. While the main game mode pits up to 100 players against each other, friends can team up in duos or squads to compete together. Beyond that, Fortnite offers creative mode, live in-game concerts, obstacle courses, and mini-games made by the community.

Frequent updates, fun events, and themed crossovers (Marvel, Star Wars, etc.) keep the game fresh and engaging. Even if you’re not a big shooter fan, there’s likely something here you’ll enjoy.

Why it’s great:

  • Constant updates and events
  • Team-based competition
  • Tons of creative, non-combat game modes

5. Tabletop Simulator – Board Game Heaven

Platforms: PC
Best For: 2–10 players

For board game enthusiasts separated by distance, Tabletop Simulator is a dream come true. This game allows you to simulate a real tabletop and play hundreds of classic board games like Monopoly, Settlers of Catan, Cards Against Humanity, and more.

The physics engine lets you flip tables (literally!) when things go wrong, and the modding community has added thousands of downloadable games. It’s not always smooth sailing—you might accidentally fling a card across the board—but that’s part of the charm.

Why it’s great:

  • Massive library of games
  • Realistic board game feel
  • Perfect for traditional game nights online

6. Skribbl.io – Online Pictionary for Everyone

Platforms: Browser
Best For: 2–12 players

“Skribbl.io” is a free online drawing and guessing game where players take turns sketching a word while others try to guess it. Think of it as digital Pictionary with a twist of chaos—especially if your drawing skills are questionable.

It’s perfect for quick games and spontaneous fun, and it works well even with non-gamers. Plus, you can create custom word lists for themed nights (like movie titles or inside jokes).

Why it’s great:

  • No downloads or setup needed
  • Quick, easy, and endlessly funny
  • Great for all skill levels

7. Phasmophobia – Ghost Hunting with Friends

Platforms: PC (VR compatible)
Best For: 2–4 players

For groups who love a good scare, Phasmophobia offers a co-op ghost-hunting experience that will have everyone jumping in their seats. Players enter haunted locations armed with ghost-detecting equipment, trying to identify the spirit before it gets… too close.

The game uses voice recognition, so the ghost can actually hear you, which adds to the immersion and tension. It’s a thrilling (and often hilarious) experience to scream in terror together.

Why it’s great:

  • Immersive and spooky
  • Requires teamwork and communication
  • Genuinely funny reactions

8. Gartic Phone – The Telephone Game Meets Drawing

Platforms: Browser
Best For: 4–16 players

Gartic Phone takes the classic telephone game and blends it with drawing for some of the most hilarious results imaginable. One person writes a prompt, the next draws it, the next describes it, and so on—until you’re left with a laughably distorted version of the original sentence.

It’s fast-paced, creative, and often side-splittingly funny. It’s also browser-based, so there’s no download required.

Why it’s great:

  • Laugh-out-loud funny
  • No artistic skill required
  • Great for larger groups

9. Valorant – Tactical Team Battles

Platforms: PC
Best For: 5–10 players

For competitive squads who want a more strategic challenge, Valorant is a 5v5 tactical shooter from Riot Games that blends the mechanics of CS:GO with unique hero abilities. Each match requires communication, coordination, and quick reflexes.

The game is best enjoyed with a full group on voice chat, planning attacks and reacting to opponents’ strategies. It’s intense but incredibly satisfying when your squad starts clicking.

Why it’s great:

  • Deep tactical gameplay
  • Rewarding for coordinated teams
  • Regular updates and competitive events

10. Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout – Wholesome Mayhem

Platforms: PC, Console
Best For: 1–60 players

If you’ve ever wanted to compete in a cartoonish obstacle course, Fall Guys is the game for you. You and up to 59 other jellybean-shaped competitors battle your way through challenges, dodging giant hammers and swinging seesaws, all in hopes of being the last one standing.

It’s bright, ridiculous, and full of slapstick fun—perfect for groups who just want to have a good time and don’t take losing too seriously.

Why it’s great:

  • Easy for anyone to pick up
  • Adorable and chaotic
  • Seasonal updates and costumes

11. Rocket League – Soccer with Rocket Cars

Platforms: PC, Console
Best For: 2–8 players

Rocket League combines high-speed driving with soccer mechanics in one of the most unique multiplayer experiences around. Friends can team up or go head-to-head in fast-paced matches full of flips, goals, and explosions.

Whether you’re playing casually or climbing the competitive ranks, Rocket League has a high skill ceiling but still manages to be incredibly fun from day one.

Why it’s great:

  • Cross-platform play
  • Easy to learn, hard to master
  • Satisfying and fast-paced

12. Overcooked! 2 – Kitchen Chaos

Platforms: PC, Console
Best For: 2–4 players

Overcooked! 2 is a cooperative cooking game where teamwork is absolutely essential—and often hilariously absent. Players must chop, cook, plate, and serve dishes in increasingly absurd kitchens. Think conveyor belts, fire hazards, and kitchens that split in half mid-service.

It’s chaotic, fast, and insanely fun for groups who love a challenge and aren’t afraid to yell instructions (or blame) at each other.

Why it’s great:

  • Hectic but satisfying
  • Great for couch co-op or online
  • Builds teamwork… or tension

Bonus Tips for Online Group Gaming:

Use Voice Chat for Maximum Fun

Whether it’s Discord, Zoom, or built-in game chat, hearing your friends’ laughter, reactions, or mock outrage adds a whole new layer to the experience.

Try Themed Game Nights

Pick a theme like “Horror Night” (Phasmophobia, Dead by Daylight) or “Comedy Chaos” (Jackbox, Gartic Phone) to mix things up and keep the sessions fresh.

Respect Everyone’s Skill Level

Not everyone is a competitive gamer. Make sure your group rotates between chill games and high-stakes matches to keep everyone engaged.

Play Custom Games or Mods

Many online games offer custom modes or user-generated content—dig in and find something quirky or niche that fits your group’s vibe.


Final Thoughts

Online games are more than just pixels and leaderboards—they’re about connection, laughter, and creating shared memories. Whether you’re strategizing a heist, cooking under pressure, solving a murder, or just doodling the world’s worst cat drawing, there’s a game out there that’ll bring your group closer together.

So gather your friends, fire up your mics, and dive into one of these digital delights. Game night just went global.