The Best Party Games For Introverts
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“Introverts, in contrast, may have strong social skills and enjoy parties and business meetings, but after a while wish they were home in their pajamas. They prefer to devote their social energies to close friends, colleagues, and family.”
~ Susan Cain
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about what the term “introvert” means. And, let’s look at why introverts aren’t particularly fond of parties (any parties) – and their accompanying games.
According to Merriam-Webster, an introvert is “a reserved or shy person, who prefers to be alone.” These personality types heavily dislike “small talk, chattiness, and crowds, preferring intimate conversations, peace, and quietness” instead.
To an introvert, there is nothing worse than loud people and high-energy parties. This is why it’s so important to select party games that introverts can participate in and actually enjoy. Understand that these individuals prefer silence or minimal noise. They like to have intimate conversations with others without having to shout to get their points across.
Socializing emotionally drains introverts, so loud, rowdy party games are a no-no for them. Keep in mind that it’s common for these individuals to look for an “escape” if the party and/or games become too much for them to bear. If you suddenly notice your introverted party-goer is nowhere in sight, don’t become offended. The truth is they probably need a moment to recharge after so much excitement.
FYI: It can take days for an introvert to recover from a party. So, don’t become irritated that your friend is MIA for a few days afterward.
To most introverts, parties and party games are fun but super exhausting. The good news is, there are party games that introverts can really enjoy. The key is to plan, at least some games, with these guests in mind.
Poker is a party game almost anyone, including an introvert, can enjoy without much angst. Why? Unlike many team sports where you have to communicate and interact with groups of people, the social interactions in poker are limited. The only thing an introvert has to contend with is the cards in their hand!
Poker allows introverts to avoid direct interactions for hours. In fact, your shyer and more reserved party guests can play this game for hours without having to utter more than a couple of words.
And, guess what? Being reserved could actually be a benefit when playing poker. The key to making this party game a bonafide success is controlling your emotions, and not giving your “hand” away – which means it’s the perfect game for introverts. The end result? They could walk away from the table with lots of money and/or treats.
You can buy a great poker set here.
Board or video games are a foolproof way to entertain even the most reluctant and reserved party-goers. Why? Because they provide your more extroverted guests with an opportunity to “trash talk” while providing introverts with an opportunity to focus on the game and showcase their skills.
They also room offer of strategic moves, belly laughs, and friendly competition – a plus for both introverts and extroverts. All-in-all it’s an excellent way to encourage bonding amongst your party guests. All that’s required to make this party game a success is a comfy place to sit, focus, and concentrate, a positive attitude, and the readiness to “go into battle.”
Looking for suggestions for a board and/or video games that will be fun for everyone, introvert and extrovert alike? Listed below are some entertaining games that almost everyone will enjoy: Charity Party, Trouble, Life, Monopoly, Clue, Chess, Checkers, Connect 4, Pictionary, Cards Against Humanity, Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo Switch), Family Feud (PlayStation 2), Family Game Night (PlayStation 2), Carnival Games (Xbox), Pac Man (Nintendo Wii), Mortal Kombat (Playstation 4), etc.
Don’t forget to grab some snacks and beverages to enjoy while you play!
BINGO is pretty much the perfect party game for both introverts and extroverts! Why? Because it’s calm; there is no hollering, yelling, or shouting in BINGO (until the end). Yet, it’s still fairly competitive and it typically comes with prizes.
Everyone loves prizes, right? It’s a perfect combo of civility and excitement, which is ideal for shyer guests.
Wondering how to “spice this game up” a little – without off-putting your more reserved party-goers? Listed below are tips that can make BINGO even more fun for everyone:
“Theme It Out” – A great way to get your introverted party guests out of their shells is to add a theme to the game. For instance, host a Tropical Daiquiri BINGO, (don’t forget frozen tropical daiquiris), Mexican Food BINGO (complete with Mexican food), Wedding Day Necessities BINGO (with wedding decorations, a cake or cupcakes, and champagne, of course!), Roaring 20s BINGO (with decorations from the twenties and “things” that were happening when the 20-somethings were born), etc.
Food-Inspired Markers – You can add an extra touch of fun to your BINGO game by using food-inspired markers. So, instead of plastic pieces or markers, how about using gummy bears, M&M’s, DOTS, Mike and Ikes, Cheeze-Its, or Hersey Kisses to mark the items. Just warn your guests not to eat the yummy treats until after the game.
Use An Alternate Name – So, instead of using “B-I-N-G-O” for the name of this party game, how about using an alternative like “G-I-F-T-S” (for winter, holiday, or Christmas parties), or “L-O-V-E-R” (for Valentine’s Day party)? Just make sure the new title only has five letters in it and you’re sure to get a lot of laughs from both introverts and extroverts. Don’t forget to explain to your guests that the only thing that has changed in this BINGO is its name – everything else (how it is played) is the same.
You can buy the perfect bingo set here.
If you are interested in learning more about the best party games for introverts, check out the following articles: How To Throw An Office Holiday Party For Introverts by Elite Daily, Party Games for Introverts by Little Hammer Games, and The Best Party Games by Apartment Therapy.
Ph.D. in Family Psychology
Ree has a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy (M.M.F.T.) and a Ph.D. in Family Psychology. She spent over ten years counseling families, couples, individuals, and children on adjustment issues such as blended families, same-sex couples, dysfunctional family relationships, relationship issues, etc. Now she writes for famous health organizations and is a published author.
Full Bio | LinkedIn
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