Big fun with no props! A collection of party game ideas
Have you ever thought, “We want to play a game that gets everyone hyped at the party, but we didn’t prepare anything…”? In fact, there are plenty of party games you can enjoy without using any props at all.
Games that rely only on your body and your brain—no cards, no smartphones—are perfect for creating a sense of togetherness in the moment! They’re great for both small and large groups and serve as a communication tool that lightens the mood.
In this article, we’ll introduce party games that require no equipment, can be started right away, and are fun for everyone!
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Have a blast with no props! Party game ideas (11–20)
No-English game
Simple but challenging! Here are some ideas for a “no English” game.
As the name suggests, it’s a game where you’re not allowed to use any English.
The key is that we often slip English words into everyday conversation without noticing.
You can try replacing English with Japanese or mix in gestures.
If someone does use English, add one point to their tally; it could be fun to have the person with the most points within the time limit do a penalty game.
Gesture Game
The “gesture game” is great brain training because you move your arms and legs and use your whole body while thinking.
Anyone from small to large groups can enjoy it, so it’s perfect for parties.
It’s fun to figure out how to convey the prompt within the time limit using only gestures! If you have a big group, you can split into multiple teams and make it so the team that gets the most correct wins—that could be fun too.
Give it a try!
Magical Banana
A Magical Banana game where clapping and rhythm are key.
The first person says, “When you say banana, I think of ___,” filling in a word by association.
The next person keeps the rhythm and continues saying what the word makes them think of.
Keep the rhythm going by saying the phrase “When you say ___” each time.
Once everyone gets used to the game, speed it up by increasing the clapping and rhythm tempo.
The main point is to say your associations in time with the rhythm; if you can’t say one in time, restart on the spot and try again.
Gesture Telephone Game
Let’s enjoy a gesture-only telephone game where you communicate without using words.
Form teams of about five or six people.
Once you line up in a single file, the first person checks the prompt.
Pass the prompt to the next person using only gestures, making your movements big and clear.
The last person gives the final answer to the prompt.
Exaggerating your gestures and adding facial expressions may make it easier to convey the message.
And if it doesn’t get across, thinking about how to make it clearer is part of what makes this game fun.
Tongue Twister Challenge
The tongue twister challenge is a recreational activity that everyone can enjoy together, no matter their age.
The key is to read the designated phrase quickly without stumbling over the words.
The facilitator should demonstrate first; if they deliberately slip up, it can help participants relax and ease their nerves.
Start by practicing slowly at first, and once everyone gets used to it, gradually increase the speed.
It can also be fun to play in teams and compete for the best time.
Who am I? game
Liven up your New Year’s with 10 “Who am I?” quiz questions! Each question comes with three hints, and you use the clues to figure out the answer.
For example: “I have a red body and I’m always standing with my mouth open,” “I used to be round, but now my body is more angular,” and “Someone comes at the same time every day to take what’s inside me.” By reading the hints carefully and using your imagination, you’ll enjoy the thrill of arriving at the answer.
It’s great for all ages—from young children to adults—and helps develop thinking and observation skills.
It’s a game where you can feel the excitement of guessing correctly and enjoy discussing the hints with friends.
Big fun with no props needed! A collection of party game ideas (21–30)
Do it right away! Epicenter game
I’m going to introduce a “Shingenchi” game that everyone can get excited about.
First, choose one person to be the Oni (it).
The Oni’s job is to figure out who the Shingenchi is.
One other member becomes the Shingenchi and performs various movements while trying not to be noticed by the Oni.
The remaining members should imitate the Shingenchi’s movements—mixing in other motions as well—so the Oni can’t tell who the real Shingenchi is.
The Oni tries to guess who the Shingenchi is.
The more players you have, the more challenging it may become.
Give it a try!