If you've ever walked into a game bar and thought, "Okay... which game won't make me look ridiculous?" you're completely valid. Bar games are fun, but can also be intimidating, especially if you're full of "holiday spirits".
But even beginners can become masters, and it only takes finding the right game to make you feel like a champion.
This month, we'll give you the full rundown on which games you can feel comfortable jumping into as a newbie, and which games require courage (and maybe a couple of cereal shots) before you can claim the top spot.
At a Glance
Some games click in one minute. Some take a few rounds and a little stubbornness.
- Easy games: Bingo and simple party card games.
- Middle of the pack: darts and trivia.
- The hardest games: strategy board games and axe-throwing.
You can play all of them at The Corner or upstairs at Detroit Axe in Ferndale.
The Easiest Bar Games to Learn
These are your warm-up games; the ones you can jump into with a drink in one hand and only half the rules in your brain. Quick to learn, fun right away, and perfect when you don't want to think too hard.
Bingo
Bingo is the definition of low-effort, high-chaos fun. You grab a card, keep an eye (and ear) on the calls, and wait for that magical moment when you get to yell louder than anyone else at the table. No warm-up, no strategy deep-dive. Just simple "mark the thing, win the thing" energy.
Why it's beginner-friendly:
- You can learn it in about ten seconds.
- Everyone at the table plays at the same time.
- It's easy to talk, sip, and snack while you play.
Party Card Games
Party card games are the "we just sat down, what should we play?" answer. Most people already know the basics of UNO-style or fast-paced party card games, and even if they don't, the rules take about a minute to explain.
The Corner's game library has hundreds of card and board games, so you're never stuck playing the same thing over and over.
Not sure where to start? Ask our Game Sommelier. They'll ask about your group size, vibe, and how competitive you are, then point you toward something that fits; silly, strategic, or somewhere in between.
Middle-Level Bar Games (Fun With a Little Skill)
These games sit in that sweet spot: easy to start, but you'll want a few rounds to really get the hang of them. You'll use a bit of coordination, a bit of strategy, and maybe a little luck.
Darts and Darts Detroit
You know darts; throw a little pointy thing at the wall and hope it lands in the center rings. At The Corner, you can take it up a notch with Darts Detroit, a modern setup that features real metal-tipped darts, digital scoring, and guided modes on the screen.
The system walks you through the rules, which makes it easy to start, even if you've never thrown a dart in your life. But to actually win? You'll need a steady hand and some decent aim.
Why it lands in the middle:
- Technique and aim matter.
- Different game styles call for different approaches.
- You'll understand it fast, but mastering it takes repetition.
Darts Detroit is one of the most popular activities at The Corner. It works great for date nights, small groups, and anyone who likes a little scoreboard pressure.
Trivia-Related Games
For those wanting to test their knowledge, but aren't afraid to be wrong, trivia is a great option. You'll team up, pick a clever team name, and work your way through rounds that can cover anything. It's easy to jump in, but you'll need a mix of brains, guesses, and teamwork to climb the leaderboard.
Why it lands in the middle:
- The rules are simple, but the questions can be sneaky.
- Team strategy matters.
- You're racing the clock and other teams, which keeps the energy high.
The Hardest Bar Games to Master
Easy games are great icebreakers, but they can get repetitive. Besides, maybe you're ready for something that takes some real skill. Below are the games you should only take on if you're ready to commit some time and some brainpower to master.
Strategy Board Games
Games like Catan, Azul, Wingspan, and many others need planning, resource management, and clever choices that affect everyone at the table.
Why they're harder:
- More detailed rules and setup.
- Longer rounds that reward focus.
- You're always thinking a few moves ahead.
We keep a large, regularly updated game library, so you'll find both classics and newer releases. If the options feel overwhelming, the Game Sommelier can jump in, explain the rules, and help you pick something that matches your group's experience level.
Axe Throwing
The concept is simple: throw an axe at a wooden target and try to stick it. Actually getting good at it? That's where the challenge kicks in.
You'll work on grip, stance, and throw rotation, and once they all click, that solid "thunk" into the bullseye is wildly satisfying.
Why it's considered challenging:
- You need focus and control.
- Timing and release matter.
- Improvement builds over repeated throws.
Detroit Axe offers twelve lanes plus trained staff to walk you through everything, so even first-timers feel comfortable trying it out.
Game Nights Made Easy in Ferndale
Bar games can take a night out to the next level. They break the ice, spark inside jokes, and give everyone something to do between rounds of food and drinks.
At the Corner, you'll find a full game library, a darts lounge with Darts Detroit, great food and drinks, and easy access upstairs to Detroit Axe for axe throwing. No matter your comfort level or experience, there's something to play.
Grab Your Crew and Play at The Corner in Ferndale
Ready to turn "let's grab a drink" into game night?
Head to The Corner in Ferndale, try Darts Detroit, check out Detroit Axe upstairs, and raid the board game library for something new. Reserve a table, order your favorites, and let the games decide how the night goes.