Indoor games and recreational activities recommended for college students
University students are always surrounded by new connections, like in seminars and clubs.
Many of you may be looking for games that everyone can play together to build rapport with new members.
In this article, we’ll introduce recommended indoor activities and recreation games that college students can enjoy.
There are also games you can play online, so they’re perfect for remote classes too! There are plenty of games you can use when you’ve got a bit of free time with friends, so be sure to check them out!
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Indoor activities and recreation games recommended for college students (61–70)
balloon volleyball
The game where you bat a balloon back and forth so it doesn’t fall—many of us strongly associate it with childhood play.
If a regular rally feels a bit too simple, try adding some twists to make the mind games more intense.
For example, gradually increase the number of balloons you use, or incorporate a Yamanote Line game into the rally so players have to think while they move.
Because the basic rules are so simple, there are countless potential variations to try.
I love you game
If you’re looking for an icebreaker that helps anyone get along, the “I love you game” is a great pick.
It’s played in pairs, and you simply keep saying “I love you” to each other.
The rule is that whoever gets embarrassed—by laughing or looking away—loses, whether they’re the one saying it or hearing it.
When someone tells you “I love you” face to face, it tends to open anyone’s heart, doesn’t it?
What’s in the box? game
The “What’s in the Box?” game that’s popular on TV shows and YouTube—you see it a lot, but not many people have actually tried it, right? When you do it for real, it’s scarier than it looks on TV and it really gets everyone excited.
All you need is a box and something to put inside, so it’s easy to set up and a great bang-for-your-buck party game.
Atama-Oshiri Game
Let me introduce a fun group game called the Head-and-Tail Game.
The quizmaster announces the first letter (head) and the last letter (tail).
Respondents must quickly think of a word that fits and answer on the spot.
It’s recommended to start with an easy theme—like fruits or vehicles—before asking questions.
It’s a game that tests your flashes of inspiration and your ability to make instant decisions.
Compete to see how many you can answer while having fun.
If you keep a steady rhythm by clapping along as you answer, you’ll get that exciting, time-pressured feeling as you participate.
Mansion Game
Let me introduce a rhythm-based apartment game.
There is a five-story apartment building, and the person who first reaches the 5th floor loses.
Assign room numbers to players one by one.
For example, rooms on the first floor are numbered 101, 102, 103, and so on.
Once the game starts, say your own room number, then call out the room number of the next person.
Keep the game moving at a steady tempo with hand claps and a time limit.
If someone is called but fails to respond in time, their room number advances to the next floor—201, 202, 203, etc.
The person who ends up reaching the 5th floor loses.
It’s a thrilling apartment game—let’s keep our focus and play with good rhythm.
Change Janken
Here’s a variation of rock-paper-scissors where the hands you throw aren’t visible to each other.
Play rock-paper-scissors as usual, but keep your hands hidden and try to imagine what the other person is throwing while asking each other questions.
You’re free to believe or doubt whatever the other person says.
Once you’ve decided on your final hand, reveal them to each other.
It’s a fun twist on the game with a psychological element—give it a try! It might be even more exciting with a larger group.
Escape Game
Let’s work together to solve puzzles and aim for a clear! Here are some escape room ideas.
An escape game is a game in which players solve riddles and puzzles with the goal of escaping from a certain room or place.
If you have classmates who love quizzes, it could be fun to start by creating riddles and give it a try! If you take on the challenge in teams, it will definitely strengthen the team’s unity! By getting the teacher involved and working together, you’re sure to have a wonderful time.
song shiritori
A classic game of shiritori for killing a bit of time.
This version, called “Song Shiritori,” is played using song titles or lyrics.
If you know a lot of track names and lyrics, you’ll have a great time.
When you’re with people who share similar music tastes, it’s guaranteed to get even more exciting if you specify a band or artist, or set a music genre in advance.
Kyogen ‘Slowly, Slowly’ Game
This is a game inspired by the line “sorori sorori,” devised by Chocolate Planet’s Mr.
Osada, which evokes the feel of kyogen.
Just as the slow movements in kyogen are expressed as “sorori sorori,” players answer with words that the prompt brings to mind.
There are no definitive correct answers, so judge casually among participants as you go.
If a response doesn’t seem connected to the prompt, it’s out.
The most important thing is recalling the most fitting word.
Dragon Quest Dodgeball
This is a game that adds role-playing elements, like those in the Dragon Quest series, to dodgeball, where the goal is to hit opponents with the ball.
Each team has exactly one King, and the other members are assigned different roles.
While making full use of the abilities tied to each role, players aim to protect their own team’s King and defeat the opposing team’s King.
Since players also discuss how to use their abilities during the game, judging the right timing for actions may be crucial.