Welcome to Lantern Games, where the nostalgic charm of yesteryear meets modern entertainment. Retro-themed game nights are about reliving cherished memories from the past while creating new ones with friends and family. These ideas and suggestions provide inspiration to host your own retro game night, celebrating classic board games and the iconic aesthetics of decades past.

Setting the Scene

A successful retro game night starts with creating an atmosphere that transports your guests back in time. Choose a decade or era to focus on, such as the '60s, '70s, '80s, or '90s, and tailor your decorations accordingly.

Decor Ideas

  • '60s Vibe: Think tie-dye fabrics, lava lamps, and psychedelic patterns. Use a color palette of bold and bright hues like orange, yellow, and pink.

  • '70s Glam: Incorporate disco balls, shag rugs, and metallic accents. Earthy tones combined with pops of gold or silver can highlight this groovy decade.

  • '80s Neon: This era's iconic look includes neon colors, geometric patterns, and a lot of black with bright accents. Consider a Rubik's cube centerpiece or Pac-Man themed table settings.

  • '90s Nostalgia: Echo the grunge or pop culture rotation of this decade with plaid tablecloths, bean bags, and vintage video game posters.

Retro Games Selection

Having a variety of games from the era you're showcasing adds depth to your theme. Consider including both well-known classics and some less common gems to keep guests intrigued.

  • Vintage Board Games: Games like "Monopoly," "The Game of Life," "Clue," and "Risk" have stood the test of time and remain popular choices. Track down special edition versions from your chosen era for an authentic feel.

  • Classic Video Games: If access to a console is possible, playing video games from the past can be a fun addition. Think "Super Mario Bros.," "Tetris," "Sonic the Hedgehog," or "Street Fighter." A mini arcade setup with a few classic games could also add excitement.

  • Card Games: Use decks with illustrations reminiscent of your chosen era. Vintage card games like "Uno" or "Canasta" can offer engaging breaks between more complex board games.

Costume and Fashion Tips

To really get into the spirit, encourage guests to dress according to the chosen time period. This adds an exciting visual element and often becomes a conversation starter.

  • '60s: Short shift dresses for women and sharp suits or turtlenecks for men.

  • '70s: Bell-bottom jeans, floral shirts, and platform shoes are a must. Don’t shy away from oversized sunglasses and leather jackets.

  • '80s: Colorful leggings, shoulder pads, and graphic tees. Accessories like high tops and fanny packs can add flair.

  • '90s: Baggy jeans, overalls, and chokers. Consider band t-shirts or even bucket hats to complete the look.

Food and Drinks

Creating a menu that complements your retro theme enhances the experience. Offer period-appropriate snacks and drinks that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Snack Inspiration

  • '60s: Serve fondue, deviled eggs, or cheese balls.

  • '70s: Include items like quiche, Swedish meatballs, or cheese and pineapple sticks.

  • '80s: Bagel bites, fruit roll-ups, and popular candies from the decade can be a hit.

  • '90s: Think pizza rolls, Dunkaroos, and mini sliders.

Drinks

  • Shirley Temples: A classic that spans several eras.
  • Punch Bowls: Reflects communal feel of decades past.
  • Soda and Pop: Choose brands and flavors that were popular in your focal decade.

Music Playlist

Music is a core feature of any gathering. Create a playlist featuring hits from artists and bands that defined your chosen decade. If you don’t have the time to make your own, many streaming services offer curated lists that might suit your needs.

Engagement and Sharing

Encourage guests to post about their experience on social media using a dedicated hashtag. This not only fosters community engagement but can also serve as a wonderful digital memory to look back on.

Retro game nights are a celebration of the past—a way for us to recall the joys of simpler times through games, dress, and camaraderie. Whether fueled by a love of vintage aesthetics or an appreciation for classic board games, there's a certain magic in bringing the past back to life, even if just for one night. Enjoy planning your game night, and let the good times roll!