10 Online Games for Kids to Play with Friends

Add some variety to your kids’ virtual playdates with these online games they can play with their friends.

By Linda DiProperzio January 14, 2021

This past year has been hard on all of us, with both parents and children dealing with the transition to remote learning and online activities—though kids were able to be outside for most of the pandemic and could see friends from a distance. Now that we’re in the middle of winter, and indoor activities and outdoor playdates are (mostly) on pause, making sure your children stay connected with their peers can be a challenge. Luckily, technology allows them to still socialize. Here are 10 online games for kids to play with friends—and family!

Draw Something

This Pictionary-style game is perfect for creative kids, but you don’t need to be a budding Picasso to enjoy it! Users simply take turns selecting a word to draw, and then watch friends try to guess what it is.

Connect Four

My boys love this game and often played it during indoor recess at school. Now they can challenge friends at home through this online version. In fact, they can even organize an online tournament so multiple friends can get in on the fun.

Uno!

This game has been a family favorite for decades. Now the Uno app allows kids to play with their pals 1-on-1, in 2-versus-2 mode, or just watch as a spectator. They can also invite their friends to an Uno Room and make up their own rules.

Scrabble Go

Another classic, Scrabble Go allows kids to play together in daily tournaments, as well as challenge themselves during three fast modes. Rewards enable them to personalize their boards with themed objects and there is also a “chat with friends” feature.

Monster Math Duels Kids

This app is a win-win for parents and their children. Kids can compete with friends while also sharpening their math skills. You can either arrange for them to play with pals in the same grade or mix it up with kids at all different levels.

Chess with Friends

Did your family binge The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix? Players can engage in multiple games at the same time, track their moves and improve their stats.

Monopoly

You can now play this popular board game online and invite other families to join in on the fun. Why not plan a game night so parents can socialize together as well as the kids?!

Mario Kart Tour

Friends can be added to your child’s account so they can challenge each other to a race with Mario and the gang.

Roblox

Another one of my boys’ favorite online games, kids can search for one another and become “friends” so they can explore 3-D worlds created by other users. Those that want to create their own experiences can do so for a cost in Roblox Studio.

Pokémon Go

Sure, the Pokémon Go craze has calmed down since it was launched a few years ago, but it’s still a popular game for those who love Pikachu and Charmander. Kids can add each other to their friends list to play this online game both indoors and outside—just avoid playing the game on subway platforms, when crossing the street, and at museums.

And if you’re looking for a screen-free family activity to do after dinner, try having a family game night with some favorite board games.