5 Video Apps to Host Game Nights and Happy-Hours from Home
If you’re missing your usual Friday nights out due to the coronavirus restrictions, some apps for video socializing are helping friends connect from the comfort, and safety, of their homes.
You can do everything from host game nights to happy-hours.
Here are five apps for virtual socializing that will help you party from home.
Zoom
Zoom is the main video platform I’ve been using during coronavirus self-distancing. It was once used largely by businesses for video conferencing, but since the coronavirus restrictions hit, it’s been popular for socializing. There are paid and free versions, and it’s easy to figure out! The free version offers 40 minute chats for as many as 100 people. I recently did an online Zoom video meetup with the Phi Mu Detroit Area Alumni Chapter (see above) and had a blast.
Houseparty
This is a really popular one right now! Houseparty enables you to play games with your friends, such as trivia, Quick Draw and Heads Up. Up to eight people can use it at a time.
Facebook Messenger
If you have a smaller group of people wanting to “meet” in a familiar environment and you all have Facebook, then Facebook Messenger offers a way to connect. It works for up to eight people for free video calls.
Skype
Good ol’ Skype is staple in video chatting. It’s still a contender and offers free video calls for large groups of people. Using Skype might be more familiar to older family members, too, which helps if you’re trying to connect the generations.
Google Meet
If you’re familiar with Google Hangouts, then you’ll notice they’re moving it over the Google Meets moniker. Google Meets offers real-time video meetings with users, and you can share photos, videos and more with your friends. You can log in with your current Google account.