The Best 3 Games You’ve Got to Play!

Looking for games that bring people together, make you laugh, and maybe even spark a little healthy competition? These three are my all-time favorites for a reason—they’re tried, true, and full of unexpected fun. Here’s why they deserve a permanent spot in your game night lineup.    

1. Speed Scrabble

Why it matters:
Speed Scrabble is like regular Scrabble’s cooler, faster cousin. No board, no waiting for turns—just everyone building their own crossword-style puzzle as quickly as they can. It keeps your brain sharp, especially if you’re a word lover who thrives under pressure.

Who it’s for:
• Word nerds
• Competitive spirits
• Families looking for screen-free bonding time

Rules:

Four players can divide the tiles from one boxed game, each player starting with seven tiles. The board is not used. On the count of three, players flip their seven tiles to begin building words with their own tiles on the table in front of them.

Multiple words can be built with those seven tiles, or one word, whichever enables the player to use all seven tiles in that first round. The first player to use all seven tiles says “Two” and all players take two more tiles whether or not they had used all their tiles yet in that round.

Interesting points:

You build without the scrabble board.

Build your own words and don’t connect to anyone else’s words.

No way out: you must take two tiles if someone else uses all their tiles in a round and says “two.”

Re-arrange the words you have built at any time you wish.

Repeat words as many times as you wish.

Rules

If all players are struggling to use their tiles, players agree on a “two” and all players take two tiles. “Two” can also be commanded after three minutes have elapsed and no one has used their tiles.

Play continues until all tiles have been taken. Or if there are not enough tiles for each player to take at least one on the last round, those tiles in the center pile are discarded.

The first player to use all of his tiles says “done” and play stops immediately.

We don’t bother adding up and subtracting points on the tiles. We simply declare the person who said “done”  first, the winner. Actually, we inspect that person’s words to make sure the words are legit before declaring the winner.

Hasbro Scrabble classic board game Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/3IErXJj

Bonus tip:
Try playing in teams if you’ve got a big group—great for parties! Or set a timer to limit each round to 2 or 3 minutes for extra intensity. I keep a small pouch of letter tiles in my bag when I travel—it’s that portable.

2. UNO

At least two in my family play UNO almost every night either before or after dinner. It’s fun and relaxing. With large groups playing UNO, the play can get cut-throat and boisterous, but still fun! We actually use two decks of cards and a battery-operated card shuffler.

Why it matters:
Simple to learn and endlessly replayable, UNO is one of those rare games that works across generations. Whether you’re 8 or 80, you can sit down, shuffle up, and jump right in. It’s fast, colorful, and full of unexpected reversals (just when you think you’re about to win—hello, Draw Four).

Who it’s for:
• Families with mixed ages
• Campers, travelers, and rainy-day loungers
• Anyone who likes a little strategy and a lot of fun

Rules:

“You have to match either by the number, color, or the symbol/Action. For instance, if the Discard Pile has a red card that is an 8 you have to place either a red card or a card with an 8 on it. You can also play a Wild card (which can alter current color in play).

If the player has no matches or they choose not to play any of their cards even though they might have a match, they must draw a card from the Draw pile. If that card can be played, play it. Otherwise, keep the card, and the game moves on to the next person in turn. You can also play a Wild card, or a Wild Draw Four card on your turn.”

Bonus tip:
We often play with our own house rules—like stacking Draw Twos and saying “UNO” with dramatic flair. If you’re looking to mix it up, try UNO Flip (double-sided cards for even more chaos) or bring a waterproof deck to the beach or camp. I also linked to a travel set in the post that fits easily into a backpack or glove compartment.

3. Magic Math Card Tricks

Why it matters:
Everyone loves a good “how did you do that?” moment. These tricks are perfect for younger players, family gatherings, or anytime you want to impress without actual sleight of hand. The best part? They’re self-working—just follow the steps, and you’ll look like a math magician.

Who it’s for:
• Kids (and kids-at-heart)
• Family game nights
• Teachers or camp counselors

Marvin’s Magic – Fifty Greatest Card Tricks Set Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/3TvOGxv

Video

Like I said, it’s sometimes easier to watch a video than to read instructions. Check out this video on wikiHow: https://www.wikihow.com/Perform-a-Card-Trick-Using-Math

Bonus tip:
My favorite one is the “13-card reveal” trick—easy to learn, and it works every time. You can find video tutorials online or even print a few to keep in your game box for impromptu fun.

Final Thoughts

These three games couldn’t be more different—but that’s what makes them a perfect trio. You’ve got fast-paced, brainy, outrageous, and magical all covered. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, hanging out at camp, or trying to keep a family gathering lively, give one (or all!) of these a spin.

And if you try one, let me know how it went—or if you’ve got a favorite game I should try next. I’m always looking to add to the collection.

xo, — Dana 💛

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