Image via Complex Original
Having get-togethers with your buddies makes for great bonding experiences. Sharing stories—like how you caught your boss picking his noise at the office—with a beer in your hand and your feet up on the sofa can often be the highlight of the night. But what to do when you are all out of stories about Mary, Jenny, and that pesky boss? It’s time to play some games.
While online gaming has become the norm the past couple years, there’s still something to be said about being there in person. From talking trash to a friendly shove, long-lasting friendships are made or broken during these sessions. So with last week’s console release of Diablo III still on our mind—and on our console—check out our list of some of the best games to play in-person with your friends and a cold brew.
Super Smash Bros. Brawl
If you haven’t played Nintendo’s fighting game series with a cold one sitting at your side, you are doing something wrong. There is just something special about you and a few buddies taking control of Mario, Pikachu, and the rest of your favorite Nintendo characters and beating the stuffing out of one another.
NBA 2K13
There is no better game to smack talk friends than NBA 2K13. Play with up to three teammates and/or opponents locally or against an AI-controlled team. This is definitely one of those games that could break friendships forever, but as long as you are on the winning team, it’s worth it.
Mario Party
Regardless of what installment of Mario Party you own, you are surely in for a good time with your homies. It offers a long list of creative and entertaining mini games that become increasingly more fun as the beer count goes up… but who’s counting?
Kinect Sports
We are sure Microsoft had the best of intentions with Kinect Sports hoping to get gamers fit. While that holds true for the most part, most of us enjoy playing this game with some alcohol in our system and some friends we can pwn. From volleyball to bowling in the privacy of your own home, no one needs to end up on YouTube.
Castle Crashers
Castle Crashers is an oldie but goodie. This beat ‘em up game moves you through hectic levels where you need to kill stuff—and lots of it. And supporting four players locally, Castle Crashers makes it easy to keep the whole couch entertained.
Marvel vs. Capcom 3
Only two people can play this game featuring characters from the Marvel and Capcom universes, but don’t worry, your friends will kick your butt quick enough that everyone will get a chance to play. Don’t know Spiderman’s combos? You can just button mash your way to victory. Let’s be honest, after a few cocktails, that’s all anyone is going to be doing anyways.
'Splosion Man
'Splosion Man is a puzzle platformer that requires some unique forms of getting through its multifarious levels. For starters, you blow yourself up. Constantly. Fire? Friends? Beers? This Xbox LIVE Arcade title allows up to four local players, so get cozy with your buds and allow your inner pyro to come out.
Halo 4
Even after a decade, Halo is still the best couch-based shooter around. While other games have gotten rid of split-screen multiplayer over the years, Halo still invites you to share a loveseat, split your television, and kill your friends.
NCAA 14
Most games let you talk trash about your friends’ skills, but NCAA 14 gives you the ability to insult your friends’ alma mater. While it may not be as popular as its older brother Madden 14, there is just something special about the NCAA series that lends itself to an evening with your buddies. Also, who ever heard of a college football game without a tailgate?
Rock Band
Rock Band is a no-brainer. It’s a game where you can jam out, sing, and drink all at the same time. This is an instant classic of “drinking and playing” for all ages… over 21. While they are no longer adding songs to this legendary party game, with over 2,000 songs available to download, you’re sure to find something that even the snobbiest music fan will enjoy.