Ten Games Your Youth Group Will Love
Great youth groups don’t just happen — they’re built. One of the simplest ways to create energy, connection, and momentum in your youth group is by choosing the right games. The best games aren’t just about filling time; they help young people relax, build friendships, burn energy, and feel like they belong.
Here are ten tried-and-tested games your youth group will love, whether you’re running a small group in a hall or a packed Friday night session.
1. Cone Game
Best for: Energy, competition, and instant focus
The Cone Game is fast, loud, and competitive — everything a youth group game should be. Calling out numbers keeps everyone switched on, and the sprint to knock the cone over creates instant excitement.
It works especially well at the start of the night to grab attention and break any awkwardness in the room.
Why youth love it:
It’s quick, intense, and gives everyone a clear role.
2. Pick Up Bean Bag
Best for: Speed, strategy, and crowd involvement
This game is simple but brilliant. When a number is called, the race to grab the bean bag and make it back safely creates tension every time. Do you sprint? Do you fake? Do you risk getting tagged?
Everyone else is shouting, cheering, and fully invested.
Why youth love it:
It feels dramatic without being complicated.
3. Non-Stop Tag
Best for: Burning energy and big groups
Non-Stop Tag removes everything slow or boring about tag. With everyone “it,” there’s constant movement and no hiding. The rule that frees players when a tagger gets tagged keeps the game going and stops early eliminations.
This is a perfect game when energy levels are high and you need to get people moving fast.
Why youth love it:
No standing around — ever.
4. Dodgeball (Soft Outs Version)
Best for: Controlled chaos and inclusion
Dodgeball is a youth group favourite, but it works best with modified rules. Using soft outs (like sitting out briefly) keeps players involved and avoids frustration.
It’s competitive, loud, and endlessly replayable.
Why youth love it:
It feels intense without being unfair.
5. Ninja
Best for: Laughter, focus, and mid-session reset
Ninja is perfect when you want something fun without running everyone into the ground. The frozen poses, dramatic slow movements, and sudden attacks make it hilarious every time.
It works brilliantly as a transition game before a talk or discussion.
Why youth love it:
It’s silly, competitive, and strangely intense.
6. Mafia
Best for: Social interaction and older youth
Mafia turns your youth group into a room full of detectives and liars. It’s ideal once young people feel comfortable with each other and are happy speaking in front of the group.
This game works especially well toward the end of the evening.
Why youth love it:
They get to outsmart their friends.
7. Bench Ball (Netball Style)
Best for: Teamwork and mixed abilities
Bench Ball rewards passing, movement, and teamwork rather than strength or speed. It’s inclusive and works well for groups with different ages and abilities.
It’s also a great indoor alternative to more physical games.
Why youth love it:
Everyone gets involved, not just the sporty ones.
8. Snowball Fight (Paper Version)
Best for: Indoors and quick bursts of energy
This game is loud, chaotic, and unbelievably fun. Short rounds keep it fresh, and the clear objective makes it easy for everyone to understand straight away.
Perfect for winter nights or limited space.
Why youth love it:
It’s messy energy without real mess.
9. Rock–Paper–Scissors Hoop
Best for: Big groups and team spirit
Turning Rock–Paper–Scissors into a team race instantly raises the stakes. The tension when two players meet in the middle of the hoops is electric, and the cheering from teammates makes it even better.
It works brilliantly as an all-in game.
Why youth love it:
It’s simple, loud, and competitive.
10. Eat Chocolate (Hat, Scarf, Gloves)
Best for: Comedy and low-energy evenings
This game is ridiculous — and that’s the point. Watching someone struggle to eat chocolate with gloves and cutlery never gets old.
It’s perfect for the end of the night when you want laughter without chaos.
Why youth love it:
It’s awkward, funny, and unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
The best youth group games do more than entertain. They help young people feel relaxed, included, and connected. A good mix of high-energy games, thinking games, and silly games keeps the evening flowing and creates space for meaningful conversations later on.
Choose games that suit your group, your space, and your leaders — and don’t be afraid to repeat the ones they love. If they’re asking for it again next week, you’ve chosen well.