Games We’d Love to Feature in the Lounge
A first look at the kinds of games that make in-person play actually fun.
Why this list exists: So you can picture the vibe. We’re building toward a place you drop into with friends, jump into quick matches, cheer for close finishes, and meet new people who love the same games. Nothing here is a promise or schedule—this is our starter vision we’ll refine with your input.
How we choose (simple criteria)
- Instant fun: minimal setup, short matches, easy to learn.
- Great in a room: hype moments, laughter, and good spectating.
- Flexible: cross-play or easy station setups; scales to busy nights.
- All-ages options: competitive picks plus family-friendly choices.
Esports Core (competitive energy)
- Counter-Strike 2 — fast 5v5 action that’s easy to watch and understand.
- VALORANT — tactical team play; great for coordination and clutch moments.
- Rocket League — five-minute matches, zero downtime, huge crowd appeal.
- Fortnite (Zero Build) — quick onboarding for mixed-skill groups and casual brackets.
Fighters Corner (weeknight hype)
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Switch) — massive casual appeal; everyone has a main.
- Tekken 8 — easy to watch, deep if you want it, electric final rounds.
- Street Fighter 6 — modern fighter with great onboarding and hype moments.
Couch & Party (four players, big laughs)
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe — universal pickup-and-play; perfect for “winner stays.”
- Overcooked! All You Can Eat — teamwork, chaos, and short, hilarious runs.
- Gang Beasts / Party Animals — goofy physics brawls that fill the room with noise.
- Jackbox Party Packs — phones as controllers; ideal for family hours and groups.
Co-Op Staples (team up, chill or sweat)
- Minecraft — creative builds and mini-games; easy for families.
- Helldivers 2 — cooperative chaos when the squad wants a challenge.
- Diablo IV (seasonal) — action-RPG nights that are easy to drop in and out of.
This is a living list—we’ll add or tweak picks based on what Tooele gamers actually want to play together.
Why these games work in a lounge (not just at home)
- Fast & fun: short matches mean less waiting and more playing.
- Spectator moments: even off-controller, you’re still in it—cheering, coaching, laughing.
- Easy onboarding: anyone can jump in—first-timers, casuals, and serious players.
- Community energy: these titles are simply better when you share the room.
What this will look like (big picture, no promises)
- PC bays aimed at smooth, responsive play.
- Console bays with four controllers ready and charged.
- Hard-wired internet on competitive stations so performance isn’t a coin flip.
- Friendly, safe vibe with clear conduct standards and family-friendly blocks.
Help shape the lineup
Tell us what belongs here. What would you want to play first if this was open today? Drop your picks in the Facebook group or email [email protected].
How to support the build
If you want this sooner: visit Play & Support on our site. Complete an action, it tracks, and you earn XP (no cashouts). That funding helps us move toward licenses, gear, and events.