5 Fun Mobile Apps to Entertain Party Guests

Revitalizing Social Gatherings with Android Applications

Occasions can sometimes lack energy. Whether it’s a family cookout or a get-together with friends, a shared activity or an icebreaker can often be needed to encourage laughter and a more relaxed atmosphere. Modern mobile phones offer a wealth of possibilities, and Android users have access to the ever-growing Android application marketplace to find suitable party entertainment.

Here at MakeUseOf, we consistently aim to assist in planning successful parties, featuring useful apps like David’s assessment of Anyvite, and Abhigyan’s exploration of SongVote – an application allowing guests to collaboratively curate the music selection.

This article will showcase 5 straightforward party applications that will prove valuable at your next event.

While some of these applications may seem simplistic on their own, they can be surprisingly effective in a social setting. Lacking a set of dice? A digital version is readily available on your phone. Share digital fortune cookies with your guests. Alternatively, enjoy a virtual glass of beer and observe the reactions of those around you.

Let’s explore what the Android market offers to stimulate conversation and amusement at your next gathering. All of these applications are available for free download on the Android Market.

Enjoy a Virtual Beverage with Your Android

Imagine this scenario: you're at the start of a party. Guests are seated, unsure of how to begin interacting. The mood is subdued, and you're actively seeking a way to break the ice and foster a lively atmosphere. You then retrieve your Android device, activate the Virtual Beer App, and playfully announce, "I believe it's time for a refreshing beer."

Holding your Android upright for a moment (for added effect), you then mimic drinking from a glass by tilting the phone towards your lips. This action will be observed by others:

The graphics are remarkably realistic, and the sight of someone seemingly drinking from their Android phone is undeniably humorous. You’re sure to elicit at least a few laughs. Furthermore, it will likely spark curiosity about other interesting applications on your device. This is the perfect opportunity to introduce more entertainment and get the party underway!

Before diving into party games, remember to control your music with a remote media center…you’ve already configured Gmote on your Android for this purpose, haven’t you?

Discover Fortunes with Virtual Fortune Cookies

Looking for a simple way to initiate conversation? Allow each guest to virtually open their own fortune cookie. The Fortune Cookie for Android application allows you to “crack” the cookie through a shaking motion.

Upon doing so, the cookie splits in half, revealing the fortune. The fortunes are reasonably well-written (considering the typical quality of fortune cookie messages). They aren’t overly cliché, and some may even inspire interesting or amusing discussions. As far as I can tell, the app contains a substantial number of fortunes, though repeated use will inevitably lead to duplicates.

Relive Nostalgia with Sketch-a-Etch

Another enjoyable Android application that instantly transported me back to my childhood is Sketch-a-Etch. This application replicates the classic Etch-a-Sketch toy, complete with the notoriously difficult-to-master knobs. Do you recall whether turning the right knob moves the cursor up or down? Can you remember, or will your drawing be a chaotic mess?

Be warned: once you hand someone your phone to try this application, it will be challenging to retrieve it – it’s incredibly addictive! A helpful tip: instead of attempting to “turn” the knobs, simply slide your finger left or right across them to simulate rotation. You’ll quickly become proficient.

Play Spin the Bottle on Your Android

This next application may only be suitable for certain types of parties…or perhaps after guests have enjoyed a few drinks. When the atmosphere is lighthearted and people are relaxed, suggest playing “spin the bottle” using your Android device.

Although the application is simple, the graphics and realistic spinning animation are quite appealing. Placing your finger on the bottle allows the app to track its movement. A gentle flick of your finger sets the bottle spinning until it gradually comes to a stop…pointing at someone. While a real bottle could be used, where’s the novelty in that?

Eliminate the Need for Physical Dice

The next application, aptly named “Dice,” is a practical solution for games requiring dice. If dice are unavailable, simply use your Android device, launch this application, and configure the desired number of dice. You can display up to six dice simultaneously.

Add or remove dice using the plus and minus buttons at the bottom of the screen. Guests can “roll” the dice by shaking the phone. This provides a fun and realistic simulation of rolling physical dice. Numerous games can be played with dice, or dice combined with playing cards, opening up a wide range of entertainment options. Your guests will appreciate you bringing virtual dice to the party!

Test Your Friends with the Dummy Test

This final application, called “FunnyTest,” is guaranteed to generate laughter. Some refer to it as the Dummy Test or Idiot Test. Believe you possess a high level of intelligence? Take the test yourself. Or, challenge a friend by handing them your phone and claiming the application will assess their IQ based on their progress through the levels. The very first step is amusing – the instructions are straightforward: simply press the buttons in the correct order.

However, the colors change rapidly, and you’ll likely fail the first step. Each screen presents a unique challenge, so attempting to rush through the test without careful consideration will result in failure. It’s highly entertaining, but be prepared to resist the urge to throw your phone when the test consistently outsmarts you!

Are you aware of any other enjoyable Android applications suitable for parties or family gatherings? Share your recommendations in the comments section below.