When you can’t meet up to hang out or chat—or when you’re just not done having fun—lots of people call their friends or partners! You might catch up on each other’s lives or make small talk, but sometimes it still feels like something’s missing… That’s when we recommend games you can play over the phone! We’ve gathered games you can play with just conversation, as well as ones that are great for video calls—so you can have fun without meeting in person as long as you’ve got a phone.
These games are sure to spark more conversation! Try them not only with people you usually hang out with, but also with someone you haven’t contacted in a while.
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- Games you can play with just conversation. Classic and popular activities you can enjoy without any props!
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You can play even if you can’t meet! Fun games you can do over the phone (1–10)
I love you game
The “I love you” game where you say “I love you” to the person you’re on the phone with.
It’s recommended for those looking for a way to deepen bonds during calls with friends or partners.
The rules are simple: you repeat the same phrase, but you mustn’t laugh or get embarrassed.
Some people may find it easier to try precisely because it’s over the phone.
Try showing off a range of variations—whisper it, or say it loudly.
Why not give this game a try as a way to affirm your love, even when you can’t meet in person?
Personality test
A psychological test that judges personality and ways of thinking by choosing from multiple illustrations or answering questions.
It’s a game used at various events, but you can also play it over the phone with someone you can’t meet in person.
Prepare in advance with psychology test books, websites, or apps, then read the prompts aloud and ask the questions over the phone.
If the other person can do a video call, it’s also great to give tests that use illustrations.
It’s a simple activity—just answering test questions—but it can be a chance to discover unexpected sides of the other person.
Tongue Twister Showdown
When it comes to games that can easily liven up a phone conversation, tongue twisters are a great choice.
You line up words and phrases that are easy to stumble over and compete to see if you can say them quickly.
Try a wide range of phrases, from famous Japanese tongue twisters to unique ones.
Besides the usual versions, tackling English tongue twisters is also recommended.
It’s a word game you can enjoy just by listening to each other’s pronunciation, even without meeting in person.
Start with easy ones and gradually increase the difficulty.
Games of all ages and places
A classic word game where players quickly answer a set topic in time with a rhythm.
Among games you can play over the phone, it’s easy to jump into since you don’t need any props.
If you’re playing with friends or a partner, choosing a theme based on shared interests will let you keep the game going longer.
You could also try school-life clichés or topics only the two of you would understand.
Clap along or add background music on the other end of the line to amp up the fun! If someone gets stuck or makes a mistake, doing an impression or voice imitation as a forfeit can be a blast.
Answer checking game
The answer-matching game is perfect for phone calls with friends or a partner to spark new conversations.
It’s an easy way to share feelings and values, so it’s also great for playing with someone you want to get closer to.
Choose a questioner, and have them suggest prompts that everyone can answer the same way.
If you’re on a phone call, say your answers simultaneously on a countdown.
On a video call, you can write your answers on paper and reveal them at the same time.
It works well one-on-one or with a larger group.
When everyone’s answers line up, you get a real sense of accomplishment—so try it as a way to deepen communication.
No loanwords written in the script used for foreign terms
When it comes to games you can enjoy with someone over the phone while making small talk, one classic is “no katakana words.” The rule is simple: you’re not allowed to use loanwords that are typically written in katakana in everyday conversation.
You can already imagine the awkward pauses and laughter as soon as the game starts with a set topic.
Be careful, though—things may be going smoothly and you’ll blurt one out without thinking.
Try to stick to kanji and hiragana, or spice up the call by using creative phrasing to keep the conversation lively.
Restricted Shiritori
A game of shiritori played under restrictions by setting themes like “Animals” or “Food.” Because it’s quicker than regular shiritori, it’s easy to try casually.
It’s also recommended to choose themes related to school or work to build rapport with the person on the other end of the phone.
Add conditions to spice up the game—like setting a time limit and being out if you can’t answer in time.
If you want to enjoy the tension of searching for words and the excitement on each other’s faces, try playing over a video call.
It’s a simple game that’s fun for small to large groups.