Bin the icebreakers: 10 video games to bond with flatmates

So you’ve just moved into your new uni flat, surrounded by a bunch of strangers, and the vibe’s a bit… awkward. What now?

Ditch ‘Two Truths and a Lie’ and dive into video games instead—way better than sharing embarrassing secrets, awkward silences and small talk. Plus, nothing says “we’re gonna be besties” like the constant barrage of bananas and blue shells in Mario Kart.

Here are 10 video games that’ll have you bonding and building friendships all semester long…

1. Psych!

Imagine this: you’re all trying to come up with the wildest fake answers to random trivia. If you’ve got the rizz to sell a ridiculous answer, you’re golden. And the harder you laugh, the better (trust us, you will be laughing). Just be careful—don’t laugh during your lies, that’s a pure giveaway.

Available on: Mobile, download from your app store

2. Heads Up

Another mobile gem, Heads Up is basically charades but with more mayhem. It’s low-effort but high-energy. Hold your phone to your head while everyone gives the most chaotic clues. You’ll be screaming and crying while your flatmates perform the most cursed impressions known to man.

Available on: Mobile, download from your app store

3. Jackbox Party Pack

If you don’t have Jackbox yet, where have you been? This collection of party games streams onto the TV, but everyone uses their phones so it’s easy. Create questionable art in Tee K.O., or straight-up lie through your teeth in Fibbage. It’s the ultimate game for getting to know new people.

Available on: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV

4. Mario Party

Mario Party often serves up betrayal, drama, and “I’ll never forgive you for this” vibes. One minute you’re vibing, next someone steals all your stars and you’re left crying in Bowser’s Castle. But whether you’re racking up wins or just here for the minigames, it’s all about having a blast with new-found flatmates.

Available on: Nintendo Switch

5. Overcooked! 2

There’s something weirdly satisfying about screaming, “THE SOUP IS ON FIRE!!!” while one friend is frantically chopping onions and the other’s making sushi when the order is spaghetti. This game is all about teamwork… or so they say. And if your friendship survives Overcooked! 2, it can survive anything.

Available on: Steam, PS4, PS5, Xbox and Nintendo Switch

6. It Takes Two

Looking for something slightly more chill? This two-player co-op adventure is perfect for one-on-one bonding. Talk about besties for life. Opt for sticking to strategy if that’s your thing, or simply spend hours running around exploring. One of you will be the genius of the friendship group and the other? Just there for a good time.

Available on: PC, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch

7. Just Dance

If you’re looking to break the ice by breaking a sweat, Just Dance is where it’s at. It’s the best way to get the whole flat up and moving. If we’re being real, nobody looks cool doing these moves—but that’s all part of the fun. Solid cardio + throwback tunes = the ultimate bonding game.

Available on: PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch

8. Mario Kart

Do we even need to explain this one? Mario Kart is the ultimate friend test. If you can survive Rainbow Road and a blue-egg onslaught without spiralling into a full-blown menty b, then you know this is a friendship for life. The best part is, everyone knows how to play!

Available on: Nintendo Switch

9. Among Us

Channel your inner Benoit Blanc as you work together to complete tasks and keep a side-eye out for “sus” imposters. This one’s all about fun, lots of laughter and friendly accusations. Trust? It’s tested but nothing brings people together like teaming up to wreak havoc on unsuspecting crewmates.

Available on: Mobile (free), PC, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch

10. EAFC 25

Forget asking “what are you studying?”. The real question is, “how’s your FIFA game?” EA Sports FC 25 is the ultimate football showdown that’ll have you battling it out and flexing those footie skills. Don’t worry… any grudges are left on the (virtual) pitch.

Available on: PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch and PC

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There you have it: 10 games that’ll turn your flat into a chaotic, but fun, mess. Whether you’re having the first-flat argument over Mario Kart, or flexing creativity in Jackbox, these games will break the ice faster than someone asking, “So, where are you from again?”.