Charades

Bring your group together with a classic guessing game where one player acts and everyone else tries to guess the answer. Great for parties, families, and quick game nights.

Quick facts

Platform
Desktop and mobile browser
Typical time
5–20 minutes
Difficulty
Beginner-friendly
Players
Small or large groups
Input / output
Read prompts and follow the on-screen controls

About Charades

Charades is a classic acting and guessing game. One player acts out a word or phrase without speaking, while the rest of the group tries to guess the answer before time runs out.

How to play Charades

Choose a prompt, start the round, and have one player act it out silently. The other players guess aloud. Award a point for each correct guess or simply play for fun.

Who it is for

For groups who enjoy physical clues and lively guessing. It suits players willing to act a little, without needing specialist knowledge or polished performance skills.

Features

  • Word or phrase prompts for the acting player.
  • Silent gestures used as clues.
  • Group guessing of the acted answer.

Tips for playing Charades

Keep the prompt hidden from the guessers. Agree whether pointing, mouthing words or sound effects are allowed before starting. Use a shared gesture for the number of words and act the most recognisable part first.

Related party games

Charades history and background

Charades has been played as a social guessing game for generations and is strongly associated with parties and family gatherings. Online prompts make it easier to start without writing cards first.

Charades FAQ

Can you talk during Charades?

Usually no. The acting player gives clues through gestures while the group guesses.

Is Charades good for family game night?

Yes. It is easy to learn, active, and works well for mixed-age groups.