How to Host a Horror Game Night at Home: A Kenyan Gamer's Guide

Some games are best played alone at 2am. Others are better with a room full of friends screaming at the screen. A horror game night is one of the cheapest, most fun ways to spend a weekend, especially around Halloween at the end of October. Here is how to pull it off.

PICK THE RIGHT GAME

Not every horror game suits a group. Think about how your crew likes to play:

• Pass-the-controller games. Story-driven horror where one person plays and everyone else shouts advice. Swap the controller at each checkpoint or every time someone "dies".
• Co-op horror. Games where two or more players team up. Great if you have extra controllers.
• Short and punchy. If people have to leave early, choose something you can make real progress in within one evening.

Browse our horror picks to find your next fright.

CHECK WHO IS COMING

Horror is not for everyone, and that is fine. Before the night:

• Let guests know what kind of game you are playing so nobody is caught off guard.
• Check the age rating on the box or store listing if younger siblings or cousins might join.
• Have a lighter back-up game ready in case someone wants a break from the scares.

SET THE MOOD

Atmosphere does half the work for you.

1. Lights off. Close the curtains and switch off the main lights. A small lamp behind the TV is enough to stop anyone tripping over the snacks.
2. Sound up. Horror games rely heavily on sound. If the neighbours allow it, turn it up. If not, a decent speaker close to the sofa helps.
3. Seating. Pull the sofa closer to the screen. Cushions on the floor work too, and give people something to hide behind.
4. Phones away. Nothing kills a jump scare like someone scrolling TikTok. Make a rule: phones face down.

SORT THE SNACKS

You do not need to spend much. Keep it easy and mess-free so nobody gets crisps on the controller:

• Popcorn, made at home for a fraction of the price of packets.
• Crisps, roasted groundnuts or mandazi.
• A big flask of chai or a jug of juice.
• Napkins. Lots of napkins.

If everyone brings one thing, the cost stays low for all.

ADD SOME HOUSE RULES

A few silly rules make the night more memorable:

• Whoever screams loudest picks the next snack run.
• Controller swaps happen at every death or every chapter.
• No spoilers from anyone who has already played it.
• The host has final say on when to call it a night.

KEEP IT GOING

If the night goes well, make it a monthly thing. Rotate hosts so one person is not always clearing up, and take turns choosing the game. Splitting who buys which title keeps it affordable for everyone.

READY TO GET SCARED?

A good horror night needs three things: a great game, a dark room and friends who scream louder than you. We can help with the first one. Check out our horror and co-op games and get your next game night sorted.