What Devices Can You Play Jackbox Games On? A Comprehensive Guide

The beauty of Jackbox Games lies in their accessibility and the sheer fun they offer to a group of friends or family, regardless of their gaming prowess. But one question often pops up: what devices can you actually play Jackbox on? The short answer is: a wide variety of devices! You primarily need a main screen to display the game (like a TV, monitor, or projector) and then individual web-enabled devices (like phones, tablets, or computers) to serve as controllers. This flexible setup means you’re likely already equipped to dive into the fun!

Main Screen Devices: Where the Magic Happens

The “main screen” is where the Jackbox game itself is displayed for everyone to see. This can be:

• Gaming Consoles: Popular platforms include Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4 (PS4), PlayStation 5 (PS5), and Nintendo Switch. Jackbox Party Packs are readily available for purchase and download on these consoles.
• Computers: You can also play Jackbox using Windows PCs, Macs, or even Linux operating systems. The primary way to do this is through the Steam platform, which acts as a “launcher” for the games.
• Streaming Devices: Devices such as Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV are great options for playing Jackbox on a bigger screen. These also often have a more streamlined interface for easier access.
• Smart TVs: If you have a Smart TV that can install apps, you can often find Jackbox apps directly available in the Google Playstore or Microsoft Store and connect your PC for hosting the game..
• Laptops/Tablets: You can also use a laptop or tablet as the “main screen” if you prefer.

Individual Controller Devices: Your Key to Participation

The unique strength of Jackbox lies in its use of personal devices as controllers. This eliminates the need for multiple traditional controllers and makes it easier for anyone to jump into a game. Players can use:

• Smartphones (iOS & Android): This is the most common way to play. Any modern smartphone with a web browser can be used.
• Tablets (iPads & Android Tablets): Tablets are also excellent choices for playing. They offer a larger screen for input, which can be helpful.
• Laptops & Desktops: If someone doesn’t have a smartphone or tablet, they can use their computer’s browser.
• Any Web-Enabled Device: As long as it can access the internet and open a web browser, it can likely be used to play as a controller.

The Key to Connecting: jackbox.tv

All of these controller devices connect to the game through a simple website: jackbox.tv. Players navigate to this site in their device’s browser and enter the unique room code displayed on the main screen. This process is quick and easy, allowing everyone to join the fun within seconds.

How Does it All Work?

1. Host Game: One person needs to purchase and launch the Jackbox game on their chosen “main screen” device (console, computer, etc.).
2. Display Game: The game is displayed on the “main screen” which can be a TV, monitor, or projector.
3. Lobby Room: The game will generate a unique room code which is displayed on screen.
4. Join Via jackbox.tv: Each player uses their personal device to go to jackbox.tv in a web browser.
5. Enter Room Code: Players enter the room code, which connects them to the game as individual controllers.
6. Play! Once everyone is in, the host starts the game, and the party begins!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Play Jackbox Without a Gaming Console?

Absolutely! You do not need a gaming console. Jackbox games can be played on a computer via Steam and broadcasted to a larger screen, then players join using their devices. You can also play on streaming devices like Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV.

2. Do I Need an App on My Phone to Play Jackbox?

No mobile app is required for players. Players simply use their device’s browser to go to jackbox.tv. This makes it incredibly easy for everyone to participate without needing to download anything.

3. Can I Play Jackbox on My Phone as a Host?

You can’t host games directly from a phone, your phone is a controller device. The game must be launched from a main screen device like a console or computer and be displayed on that screen. Then you can use your phone as a controller.

4. Do All Players Need to Own the Jackbox Games?

No, only one person needs to purchase the Jackbox game. This makes it very cost-effective. All other players use their devices as controllers and only need internet access.

5. Can We Play Jackbox Remotely?

Yes, you can play remotely! The host needs to screen-share the game using a video conferencing platform like Zoom, Google Meet, or Discord. Other players join the game using their devices as controllers via jackbox.tv while watching the game on the screenshare.

6. Is Jackbox Free?

Jackbox games are not free. They are a one-time purchase. Occasionally, Epic Games has offered a free Jackbox game on PC. However, the general rule is that you must purchase one of their party packs. Once you buy it, you own it forever.

7. Can I Transfer My Purchased Jackbox Games Between Platforms?

Unfortunately, you cannot transfer purchases across platforms. If you bought a game on Steam, it will not work on your console and vice versa. Each purchase is platform specific.

8. Can I Play Jackbox in a Car or on a Picnic?

Yes, Jackbox can be played anywhere you have a WiFi hotspot. The main device just needs to have internet access to connect to the Jackbox servers. This enables playing in a variety of settings.

9. Can You Play Jackbox on an iPad?

Yes, you can use an iPad as a controller device, and you can also host Jackbox games from an iPad if it is connected to a main screen through an HDMI cable and is displaying the game.

10. Do I Need Two Devices to Play Jackbox?

As a player, you only need one device to use as a controller. The host is the exception, since they need one device to host the game and a second device as their controller. Most people will use one screen to display the game and a secondary device as the controller.

11. Is Jackbox Available on Amazon Luna?

Yes, Jackbox is available on Amazon Luna. You can subscribe to the Jackbox Games channel to access a library of games that can be played across multiple devices supported by Luna.

12. Can I Play Jackbox on my Smart TV?

You can play Jackbox on a Smart TV if your TV has the capability to download apps. You will find them in the Google Play Store or the Microsoft Store and would connect your PC via HDMI. You cannot play just on the smart TV, as that will be used to display the game and you need secondary devices to play.

13. What Can I Use Instead of Jackbox on my Phone?

While there are no direct Jackbox clones, you have options like Brightful, Tabletopia, Backyard, Houseparty, The Escape Game, and PlayingCards.io if you want similar party-game experiences.

14. How do I Play Jackbox Without Owning it?

You can play Jackbox without owning it as long as one other player hosts the game and broadcasts it via screen-sharing and the rest of you use your phones or other web-enabled devices as controllers using jackbox.tv.

15. Are Jackbox Games Available on Nintendo Switch?

Yes, Jackbox Party Packs are available on Nintendo Switch. This is a great option for people who prefer gaming on the console.

Conclusion

Jackbox games are designed to be inclusive and easy to access. The flexibility of using various devices as controllers and the ability to play both in-person and remotely make them a fantastic choice for social gaming. Whether you’re using a gaming console, a computer, streaming devices, or smart TVs as your main screen and your phones or tablets as controllers, you’re all set for a fun-filled experience! Now that you know all your options, gather your friends and dive into the hilarious world of Jackbox Games!