Hanging out across different cities shouldn’t stop the fun. With the right setup, you can play charades with friends online in minutes and create the same laughter you’d get in a living room — sometimes more. This complete guide walks you through tech setup, game modes, house rules, and word ideas so you can host tonight.

Open /play and keep this guide handy as your run‑of‑show.

The fast tech setup

• Use Zoom, Google Meet, or FaceTime.
• Ask players to join from well‑lit spaces with enough room for hand gestures.
• Encourage laptops or tablets for wider camera angles.
• Soundcheck: unmute during guessing; mute briefly during transitions.

Pick your mode (and why)

• Quick Play: best balance of speed and clarity; ideal for mixed groups.
• One Word Per Turn: calmer, strategic, and great for first‑timers.
• Heads‑Up: chaotic and hilarious; perfect after everyone warms up.

Switch modes between rounds to keep the night fresh.

House rules that travel well

• No talking or spelling the word by the actor.
• Shared gestures: number of words, “sounds like,” media icons.
• 60–90 seconds per turn; 1 point per correct guess.
• One pass allowed per turn if you truly stall.

Consistency helps friends who haven’t played in a while dive back in.

Word ideas by vibe

Chill night: Animals, Actions, Food & Treats.
Competitive: Occupations, Sports & Fitness, Abstract Phrases.
Nostalgia: Movies & TV, ‘90s pop culture, Travel memories.

Or use PlayMime’s word banks and never worry about running out.

Run a 45‑minute session

1. Warm‑up (5 min): Animals (easy).
2. Main rounds (30 min): Occupations → Sports → Movies.
3. Finale (10 min): Heads‑Up with a dramatic tiebreaker if needed.

Between rounds, play a hype song and share quick shout‑outs.

Fix common snags

• Talking over each other? Name a clue captain.
• Actor too close to the camera? Step back; show hands and shoulders.
• Energy dip? Shorten turns to 60 seconds and switch mode.

With a simple plan and a playful tone, online charades becomes the weekly hangout your group never misses. Ready to go? Open /play and start your room.