The Best Trivia Games: Reviews and Guide

Netflix, Amazon Video, Apple TV – we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to entertainment, aren’t we? The thing is, while entertainment apps have taken over our lives, they lack one crucial aspect; they don’t bring people together.

Trivia games are ideal for families, friends, and anyone that likes an interactive experience. Here are the best trivia games that will exercise your mind while engaging in some friendly competition.

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What Are Trivia Games?

Trivia games are question-and-answer based games, based on what you know about specific topics. If you’ve ever taken part in a traditional pub quiz, then you’ll understand how popular trivia games are.

Today, they come in the form of board games, DVD based quizzes, and are available for PlayStation and Xbox consoles.

Why You Should Play Trivia Games

Did you know that the average American watches nine years’ worth of television by the time they’re 65? Statistics like these show how TV takes over our lives and affects our relationships.

The benefits of trivia games are numerous. Let’s look at some of them.

Improves Your Knowledge

We get a lot of information from TV, including Kim Kardashian’s favorite lip-gloss and life lessons from the cast of Riverdale. But those things aren’t beneficial, are they? Trivia games ask questions on a range of topics, including history, geography, and current events.

They Keep Your Brain Active

Our brains are complex tools that require regular exercise to function correctly. If you don’t use your mind, you’ll find that it doesn’t perform as well in daily situations. Trivia games are exercises for your brain and improve your response times.

Increases Your Self-Esteem

It’s difficult sometimes to feel confident when so much is expected of us. Quizzes can improve your self-esteem because you learn new things. They can also help you get ahead with your career because quizzes enable you to think on your feet.

They Bring People Together

With work commitments, social functions, and an abundance of on-demand TV, it’s tough to spend quality time with your loved ones. Trivia games are fantastic for families because they give people a chance to laugh, play, and spend time with each other.

The 6 Best Trivia Games

Now we’ve talked about the benefits of playing trivia games and what to look for, let’s check out the best games for 2020. Our team reviewed a range of games for different ages and occasions. These are the ones that stood out from the crowd.

The You Can’t Go Wrong: Trivial Pursuit

Players	2 to 6
Ages	16 and up

Trivial Pursuit is one of those games that’s probably older than you are! The question and answer based game focus on competitors answering questions on a variety of topics. A color represents each topic, and if you get one right, you’ll receive a wedge to fill in your counter.

Once you fill your counter, you can answer a final question to win the game. Trivial Pursuit can be played in teams or as an individual, but it’s a challenging game. Since the 1980s, there have been many updates, so you can find the right game to suit your needs.

The classic edition is suitable for ages 16 and up, but Trivial Pursuit Family Edition features question cards for both adults and children.

While it’s a great game, some people find the questions quite dull, and we’d say it’s more suited to intellectuals. However, Trivial Pursuit provides hours of fun, and it’s great if you want to test your general knowledge.

What We Like:

• Lots of different versions
• No TV or console required
• A variety of questions
• Accommodates up to 6 players

What We Don’t Like:

• Very difficult questions
• Can take a long time to complete
• The classic version isn’t suitable for children
• Not suitable for large groups

The Ultimate Party Game: Linkee

Players	2 to 30
Ages	14 and up

If you’re planning on a party, then nothing will get people in the mood like Linkee. The fast-paced game is an excellent addition to any gathering and can accommodate up to 30 players. This shout-out game has one rule: find the links between your answers. 

Players are asked a series of questions, but their score depends on whether they notice the link between all four answers. If you or your team get stuck, there’s a final clue to help you along. 

Linkee is a great game, with questions ranging from TV shows, sporting moments, geography and general knowledge. There’s something for everyone, and while you can two players can enjoy the game, teams will get a lot more enjoyment. 

The major disadvantage of Linkee is there are many versions are available, and some people have commented on the questions being incorrect. Check the reviews before you buy to ensure you don’t purchase a duplicate version. 

What We Like:

• Great for large groups
• No TV, console or board required 
• A variety of questions
• Simple to understand 

What We Don’t Like:

• Duplicated questions
• Younger people might find it difficult
• Not much fun for individual players
• Questions aren’t always accurate with some games

Best For Movie Buffs: SceneIt Deluxe Movie 2nd Edition

Players	Up to 4 Teams
Ages	13 and up

When it comes to trivia games, SceneIt is a favorite for many. There are loads of versions available, but we love the deluxe movie editions. Recently updated, the second edition features classic movies and some newer releases.

SceneIt is a DVD and board game, where players have to answer movie based questions based around fun clues. You can choose between a small board for shorter gameplay or spread the board out for hours of fun-filled movie trivia.

While SceneIt has plenty of modern movies, young people might find it hard to remember a lot of them. The game is regularly updated, but films such as Walk The Line and The Devil Wears Prada are some of the newest movies in the deluxe 2nd edition.

What We Like:

• Great for large groups
• DVD based game
• A variety of movie based questions
• Buzz Cards enhance the game

What We Don’t Like:

• Movies are a bit outdated
• Younger people might find it difficult
• Must have a DVD player

Best For Kids: 5 Second Rule Junior

Players	3 to 6 players
Ages	6 and up

If you’re a fan of Ellen DeGeneres, you’ll have seen her version of the 5 Second Game. Now there’s a kid’s version too, which offers hours of fun. The rules are simple, the game is easy, and the kids love it! If you’re looking for a way to coax your children away from the TV, then investing in The 5 Second Game is a great way to do it.

Cards ask you to name three things within five seconds. Questions include:

• Name three superheroes. 
• Name three Zoo animals. 
• Name three things you dip in ketchup. 

Players have just five seconds to answer, and a fun timer lets them know when their time is up. Be prepared for lots of funny answers, and rowdy gameplay!

What We Like:

• Ideal for kids 
• Cheap price 
• Simple questions
• No TV or batteries 

What We Don’t Like:

• Older kids might find it too easy
• Only 400 questions

The Millennials Game: Trivilliennials

Players	2+
Ages	17 and up

Trivillennial is a question and answers based game designed for the millennial generation. The game features questions based on technology, celebrities, events millennials will remember and has answers printed on the reverse of each card. 

With over ten categories, there’s something for everyone, and people will enjoy the challenge. Trivillennial is ideal for groups of friends to play and can also serve as a team-building activity at work.

Make sure you read the directions correctly, as the answers are on the reverse of the question card, and many people find this confusing! 

While Trivillennial is a fun game, it doesn’t have any interactive features. However, if you enjoy the simple question and answer games, then prepare yourself for a great time. 

What We Like:

• Good for groups of friends
• Lots of questions available
• Easy to transport
• No TV or batteries 

What We Don’t Like:

• Very basic premise
• Difficult to understand at first

Best Strategy Game: iKnow Trivia Game

Players	2 to 6
Ages	15 and up

If general trivia games don’t exercise your mind enough, then you need iKnow. The trivia game is designed so everyone can play at once, and it has a unique premise. Each player must decide on whether they’ll need between 1-3 clues before they answer a question, which adds a betting element to the game. 

If you answer a question with the least amount of clues, you win extra chips. The first player to get 20 chips wins the game. A strategy is critical here because your success depends on how well you know the other players and their abilities.

The game lasts for 45 minutes and is ideal for team-building exercises. It’s important to note that if you want a lively game, then iKnow isn’t the best option. The questions are notoriously tricky, and it’s more suited to individuals.

What We Like:

• Good for groups of friends
• Lots of questions available
• Great if you like a challenge
• Betting and wagering elements

What We Don’t Like:

• Very serious game
• The questions can be very difficult
• Not ideal for parties 

Things to Consider Before Choosing a Trivia Game

There are many things to think about before choosing a trivia game, including whether it’s age-appropriate, the theme, and how many players it accommodates.

How Challenging Is it?

Are you a general knowledge guru? Do you want to test your skills and compete with your intelligent friends? The challenge level of the game you choose is essential if you’re going to have a good time.

Imagine gathering your friends to play a trivia game and finding nobody can answer the questions. Think about your capabilities, and remember the main aim is to have fun.

If you want to play as a family, you must find a game that has a range of questions for all ages.

Is It Age Appropriate?

There are plenty of trivia games around, and some are tailored to adults. You must check the questions the game asks before you make a purchase, especially if you’re playing as a family.

How Many Can Play?

Some games have a limit of up to four or six players, while others are suitable for a crowd. If you’re planning a big party, check to see if the game can accommodate everyone. If it can’t, then it’s not good to leave people out.

What Type of Game Is It?

General knowledge games tend to cover a range of topics, but there are some specific to entertainment or music. Think about your interests and those of others that will play. Are you and your family Star Wars fanatics? Do you pride yourself on geographical knowledge? Think about what type of game you want to play before making a purchase.

The Bottom Line

With so many trivia games for sale, it’s important to think about which meets your needs. For example, do you want a family game, or are you planning to play at a dinner party? Consider the following before you make a decision: 

• Who will play?
• Is it for fun or to improve your knowledge?
• Do you want to stay away from technology? 
• How many players can you include?

Trivia games bring people together, improve your knowledge, and keep the family away from the TV. Now it’s time to choose your game and enjoy the bonding time each offers.