It’s almost that time of the year again when many of us see our extended family for the holidays! What better way to greet your aunts or uncles who say, “Uy tumaba ka” (Hey, you got fat) or ask, “Kelan ka magpapakasal?” (When are you getting married?) than with some family bonding. Wouldn’t you know it—a family that plays together stays together.
Fighting Games
TEKKEN 8
What better way to start off the list than with the Philippines’ tried-and-true fighting game of choice, Tekken! The game’s been around for more than three decades, so everyone, including Lolo and Lola, should know about Heihachi Mishima or Paul Phoenix’s outlandish hair.
With its easy-to-understand control scheme, a story literally revolving around family, and an ever-expanding roster, Tekken isn’t just a one-time affair—it’s fun for the whole family! Worried that your cousins might be too young or Tita might feel too old? Worry not because special mode has you covered.
It doesn’t have to be Tekken either. There are plenty of options depending on the consoles you have. Got a Tekken-ready console but don’t feel like sidestepping? Maybe Street Fighter is more suited for the family. It even has an easier control scheme through Modern Controls!
Street Fighter 6
Worried that little Pablo might be too young for the characters and themes involved? Look no further than Nintendo’s Super Smash Brothers Ultimate! Everyone is here indeed, with a variety of characters ranging from Mario and Peach to Kazuya, Richter, and even Sora from Kingdom Hearts.
Super Smash Bros
Party Games
Violence isn’t always the answer. Sometimes, you just need to talk things out. Co-op games are all about communication, so if you felt like you didn’t talk to your family enough last year, why not play couch co-op games or some party games?
Super Mario Party Jamboree
Ain’t no party like a Mario Party, especially with its variety of mini-games. Ranging from easy to downright devastating, you’re guaranteed hours of fun (and maybe a couple of broken controllers along the way). The only downside is that it’s limited to the Nintendo Switch, but don’t worry. There are alternatives on not just the Switch but other consoles, including the PC, like Gang Beasts or Pummel Party.
Gang Beasts
Need something to tickle your fancy with maybe a glass of wine or two? The adult mindset is a fickle thing, but good company and a fun activity are all you need. The Jackbox Party Pack is definitely something you shouldn’t let kids touch without supervision, but you’re in for a stomach ache from all the laughter. With ten installments and a boatload of additional content, this is the perfect game to cap off your night with friends, holiday or not.
The Jackbox Party Pack 10
Simulation Games
Sometimes traffic gets in the way, and you have this unquenchable lust for speed. When your inner delulu has you going places while you’re not really moving, and Tita agrees, the race is on!
Dominic Toretto once said, “You know this ain’t no ten-second race, and I’ve got nothing but time.” There are racing games out there that you can still play with family! The Mario Kart series from Nintendo has a long-standing tradition of quietly adding updates little by little, and with the recent DLC courses, the fun can go on for years to come!
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Feeling antsy after dinner or worried about the holiday weight? Why not go for something active with the family? Between Just Dance and even the mini-games from Ring Fit Adventure, the fun doesn’t stop—but the calories do!
Just Dance 2024 Edition
The holidays are a perfect time to bond with your loved ones. Whether you really like them or not, the fact that you tried matters, and it’s the thought that counts. A family that games together stays together, and while there are extra lives in games, you gotta make the most out of the one you have now and have some fun too!
