In our quest for connection, the need for social interaction is universal. Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, we all crave human contact to stay energized. With physical meetups off the table, platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, and traditional phone calls have become our lifelines. While these tools are appreciated during lockdowns, they can also lead to awkward silences and the occasional tech mishap.
Recently, during a Zoom call with friends, we found ourselves struggling for conversation, feeling the weight of loneliness. One friend suggested we play “Heads Up,” the popular game from Ellen DeGeneres, reminiscent of our gatherings filled with snacks and laughter. However, excitement quickly turned to frustration when we realized we couldn’t see each other’s screens clearly, leading to squinting and headaches.
A couple of days later, I stumbled upon the Houseparty app. Though it’s been around since 2016, its popularity surged during the pandemic. Apparently, my teenagers were in on the secret, claiming all the cool kids were using it to make quarantine more enjoyable. As a nearly 45-year-old mom, I felt a bit out of touch, missing the trend train.
Houseparty allows group chats for up to eight participants and sends alerts when your friends are online. The best feature? It resurrects game night, even when you can’t share the same physical space. Just download the app, grab your favorite snacks (no need to share!), and schedule a game night. Options include Chips and Guac (think Cards Against Humanity), various Heads Up versions, Quick Draw (similar to Pictionary), and trivia games.
Be aware of a few handy features: if you want to browse the app without anyone noticing you’re online, choose the “Sneak into the house” option. It’s perfect for sneaky browsing. If you’re in a private chat and want to keep it exclusive, simply lock your room by clicking the padlock icon. It’s like putting up a “Do Not Disturb” sign! Others can still request to join, but you hold the power to accept or deny them—perfect for avoiding unwanted guests.
Of course, these features might lead to some future drama, but hey, who can please everyone all the time? You can always turn off notifications if you want to focus on other tasks. After all, Houseparty, like any social media, is irresistibly addictive. One moment you’re planning to work, and the next, you’re sucked into a game with your besties.
In these challenging times, Houseparty has become a welcome diversion for me. While deep conversations are great, sometimes you just need to unwind and have fun, even if it’s just doodling on Quick Draw. Playing Houseparty, even while sitting on my bedroom floor, has been the most enjoyable experience I’ve had since the onset of COVID-19—and let’s face it, we could all use a little fun right now.
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Summary
Houseparty is an excellent app for virtual get-togethers, especially for game nights with friends. It offers features that allow for both socializing and privacy, ensuring you can enjoy fun interactions while maintaining your own space. This app has quickly become a go-to for those looking to spice up their social lives during challenging times.
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