Best Games for Teens to Play With Friends

2 November 2025

Let’s be honest—hanging out with friends is just better when games are involved. Whether it's a rainy weekend, a sleepover, or just some downtime after school, games bring friends together in the best way possible. But with so many games out there, how do you know which ones are actually worth playing?

Well, buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the best games for teens to play with friends. From action-packed multiplayer chaos to chill co-op adventures, this list has something for every type of squad.

Why Playing Games With Friends Rocks

Before we get into specific titles, let’s talk about why playing games with your friends is such a big deal. It’s not just about having fun (though that’s obviously a huge part). Playing games together can:

- Strengthen friendships through teamwork and trust
- Encourage communication and strategy
- Help you blow off steam after a long day
- Create shared memories and inside jokes (so many memes, right?)

Whether you’re gaming online, offline, or passing around a controller on the couch, these are the moments that stick with you. Alright, let’s get to the good stuff!

Online Multiplayer Games: Squad Up!

1. Among Us

_“SUS!”_ If you've heard that word flying around, you know the chaos of "Among Us". This social deduction game is perfect for teens looking for laughs, lies, and betrayal.

Why it’s awesome:
- You can play with 4 to 10 players
- It’s super simple to learn
- It’s hilarious when someone tries (and fails) to lie convincingly

Plus, the game gets better the more you play it because you start figuring out your friends’ poker faces—or lack thereof.

2. Fortnite

Yes, it’s still a thing—and it’s better than ever.

Fortnite continues to be one of the top multiplayer games for teens, thanks to its ever-evolving gameplay, build mechanics, and now even creative modes where you can design your own games.

Why teens love it:
- Constant updates keep things fresh
- Squad up with friends easily
- It’s not all about shooting—creative mode is like Minecraft meets Mario Party

And let’s not forget those epic dance emotes. Admit it—you’ve done the floss at least once.

3. Minecraft

You can't talk about teens and friends without mentioning Minecraft. This legendary sandbox game lets you build, break, and battle—together.

What makes it great with friends:
- You can create massive worlds together
- Survival mode forces you to collaborate
- Mini-games and adventure maps = endless replayability

Minecraft is kind of like digital LEGO, and honestly, who doesn't love LEGO?

4. Rocket League

Soccer + rocket-powered cars = the most ridiculous and fun game ever created.

What’s so fun about it?
- Fast-paced and easy to pick up
- Great for competitive friends
- 2v2, 3v3, or even 4v4 matches keep things interesting

It's chaotic, it's loud, and it's full of incredible goals and awkward whiffs. And when you finally pull off that aerial shot? Pure magic.

Couch Co-Op Games: Old School Fun

Don't have great internet or just prefer sitting next to your friends while you play? Couch co-op is where it's at.

5. Overcooked! 2

Warning: This game might test your friendship—but it’s also one of the most entertaining multiplayer experiences ever.

What’s the deal:
- You’re all chefs trying to complete orders
- Chaos ensues as the kitchen moves, flips, and catches fire
- Communication is key (or everything collapses)

It’s like Gordon Ramsay meets Mario Party—and it’s hilarious every single time.

6. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Want to watch your best friend’s confidence shatter as you blow past them with a blue shell? Mario Kart never gets old.

Why it rules:
- Easy to play, hard to master
- Tons of tracks and characters
- Perfect mix of luck and skill

This is the ultimate party game. And yes, friendships might get bruised, but it’s all love at the finish line... usually.

7. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Pick your fighter and get ready to throw hands—virtually, of course.

Why teens can’t get enough:
- Huge roster of characters from across gaming
- Supports up to 8 players
- Great for both casual players and competitive ones

It’s like a digital battle royale of your favorite characters. Mario vs. Pikachu vs. Link vs. Sonic? Yes, please.

Mobile Games: Play Anywhere, Anytime

Smartphones are like mini gaming consoles now, and you don’t even need to be in the same place to play.

8. Roblox

More of a platform than a game itself, Roblox lets you and your friends dive into endless user-created worlds.

Why it’s popular:
- Millions of games from tycoons to horror
- You can create your own and share with friends
- It’s constantly evolving

Roblox is a virtual playground, and it’s perfect for creative teens who want to explore, design, or just mess around.

9. Brawl Stars

Short, explosive matches and colorful characters? Sign us up.

Why it’s worth your time:
- Matches are quick and intense
- Tons of game modes and characters
- Great for both casual and competitive play

You don’t need a massive time commitment—jump in, brawl it out, and go do your homework (or not, we won’t judge).

Classic Board Games That Went Digital

Missing some old-school board game vibes? These games bring that nostalgic feel but with modern twist.

10. UNO!

Yes, UNO is now digital and still just as savage.

Why it still slaps:
- It’s the same game you know and love
- You can play with friends online
- Great for quick games and pure chaos

Pro tip: Always save that +4 card. Trust me.

11. Codenames Online

This is the perfect word game for teens who love puzzles and thinking outside the box.

Here’s why it’s awesome:
- It’s free and browser-based
- You can play in teams with friends
- Great for building communication skills

If you ever wanted to feel like a secret agent, this is it. Only, without the danger—unless you count your friend guessing something completely wrong dangerous.

VR Games: Next-Level Friend Time

If you happen to have a VR headset, these games take hanging out with friends to a whole new dimension. Literally.

12. Rec Room

This is like a virtual hangout space where you can play mini-games, go on quests, or just chill.

Why it’s cool:
- Cross-platform (even if your friends don’t have VR)
- Tons of free activities and games
- Great social features

It’s basically the metaverse... but actually fun.

13. Beat Saber (Party Mode)

Okay, technically not multiplayer in the traditional sense—but it’s one of the best party games out there.

Why it’s worth mentioning:
- Watching friends flail to music is hilarious
- Compete for high scores
- Amazing workout (seriously, you’ll sweat)

It’s Guitar Hero meets Star Wars. What’s not to love?

Bonus: Low-Tech and IRL Games

Sometimes, you just want to unplug and play something simple.

14. Charades

No screens, no downloads—just pure, ridiculous acting. You can use apps or just write your own prompts. It's timeless.

15. Werewolf/Mafia

All about deception and deduction. Grab a deck of cards (or use an app), assign roles, and let the lying begin. Seriously, this one never gets old.

Final Thoughts: Picking the Right Game for Your Squad

There’s no universal “best game”—it really depends on your vibe. Some groups are into intense competition, while others just want to goof off and laugh until they cry. The real goal? Finding something everyone can get into.

Here’s a quick checklist to help:

- Do you want to play online or in person?
- Is your group social or competitive?
- How much time do you have?
- Are you looking to chill or go all-out?

No matter what your answers are, there’s a perfect group game out there waiting for you.

So the next time someone says, “What should we play?”, just send them this article. You’ll be the hero your group deserves.