In principle, the aperitif or apéro is the drink taken before the meal. In practice, however, it refers mainly to the time before dinner, during which we enjoy various amuse-bouches and alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks.
The aim is to share a convivial moment with friends or family. That's why this ritual is becoming increasingly popular, as it helps to counteract the worries of everyday life. If the aperitif is not followed by a meal, it is considered a dinner party.
Are you planning to host a drinks party soon, but don't know what games to play to set the mood? Find out here about the five best aperitif games.
Le Gabaky
Gabaky is the ideal first aperitif game. The rules are very easy to learn and anyone can play. It's an interesting throwing game to test your accuracy.
The game consists of a moving target and eight soft balls. The aim of Gabaky is to hit the target. You can play one-on-one or in teams. All you have to do is choose the colour of the balls that suits you best.
In all cases, when your ball is closer to the target than your opponent's, you win a point. There are as many points as there are closer balls. The player or team that reaches the 13-point mark wins the game.
This indoor petanque game is a must-have for your aperitifs, as it will liven up your little party without making a fuss.
Jet Lag, an entertaining aperitif game
Jet lag consists of a series of rather special questions and answers. It has become a very popular aperitif game for some time now, because of the atmosphere it creates. In just a few minutes of Jet Lag, participants and spectators alike are sharing in the laughter.
The game unfolds in an original way, and you have to use your brains to answer correctly. The first question must be answered only after the second has been asked. This staggered answer requirement is a little unsettling for the player. They can easily make a mistake, even if the answer is usually simple.
For example, if the first question is "What is the name of Tintin's dog? Then, for the second question, "Who is the King of England?", say "Snowy" and not King Charles III.
Note that you have to answer as quickly as possible. The other players just wait for you to lose the thread so they can laugh and play in turn. You can invent the questions yourself or buy a ready-made Jet Lag game.
Jet Lag is perfect as an aperitif entertainment game. It brings your guests together for a laugh.
Burger quiz
As its name suggests, this game is a direct reference to the aperitif. It pits two teams of two to four people against each other. The Mayo goes head-to-head with the ketchup in four zany rounds. This aperitif game will set your evenings with friends or family alight.
A game lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. Each team has to answer various questions. The team that reaches 25 Yum or points first can take the Death Burger test and win the competition.
The Burger quiz has a few special challenges to spice up your aperitif. The Nuggets, for example, offer four choices of answer, but only one of them is the right one. There's also the check, which requires the team to be very quick.
The Burger Quiz should be one of your party games, as it promises humour and a good atmosphere for your guests.
The Blanc manger coco game
If you're planning to invite your colleagues to your home, this game is ideal. It's a must-have aperitif game for 18-year-olds and over. The contents of the playing cards are not suitable for people under this age. Blanc manger coco invites 3 to 12 players to answer questions posed by the Question Master. The winner of a round is the player who gives the most hilarious answer to the question. He wins a blue card. Whoever reaches 5, 10 or 20 cards wins the game.
Throughout the game, everyone tries to come up with funny answers. It's sure to provide plenty of laughs during your aperitif. This board game, even with its slightly "borderline" aspect, is always a welcome addition to any aperitif. There are no limits to the fun players can have.
Time's Up Party
Finally, Time's Up Party is one of the best party games to add to your list. Quite old, it has never lost its place as an aperitif game. It's guaranteed to entertain your guests. Everyone can join in the fun. The rules of the game are not difficult. All you have to do is form a team to play the guessing game.
Time's Up Party involves drawing one of the well-known character cards and getting your team-mates to guess it. The game consists of three rounds. In the first round, the team can use any means to help their teammates find the right character.
In the second round, you're only allowed one word as a clue. In the third round, you can't say a word, you just have to do the Mime. A card found equals one point. At the end of the rounds, the team with the most points wins the game.
What are the best aperitif games to try out?
The aperitif should be a time for relaxation, entertainment and sharing with family and friends. The choice of activities should not be neglected. Gabaky, Jet Lag, Burger Quiz, Blanc manger coco and Time's Up Party are all good choices.
These are the five most popular aperitif games. Don't hesitate to try them out to liven up your aperitifs.