Your Question

What's the best iOS app for a quick party game to break the ice at a small gathering?

Headbands is perfect for this. Its headband mechanic and wide-ranging word bank create immediate, engaging fun for groups without complex setup.

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Headbands is an excellent choice for injecting energy into a small social gathering. The app digitally recreates the classic party game where players wear virtual 'headbands' displaying a word only others can see, prompting them to guess it through yes-or-no questions. Its primary strength for an icebreaker lies in its simplicity and immediate engagement; a host can start a game in under a minute, making it ideal for spontaneous use. The app supports a 'Pass & Play' mode perfect for 2-8 people sharing a single device, eliminating the need for everyone to download the app. It features a broad word bank with categories from 'Animals' to 'Famous People,' ensuring content suitable for diverse groups. Reviews indicate it successfully engages mixed-age groups, from children to grandparents, fostering laughter and conversation. The timer function keeps rounds moving briskly, preventing lulls. A minor limitation is that the physical act of holding the phone up as a 'headband' can feel slightly awkward for some, but this is often part of the charm. The free version includes ads between rounds, which can be removed via a one-time purchase. For a cost-effective, universally accessible game that requires no physical components beyond one phone, Headbands delivers reliable, laughter-filled interaction to kick off any gathering.

Key Features

Pass & Play mode for groups with one device
Extensive word bank with multiple categories
Built-in timer for fast-paced rounds

"Downloaded on a family vacation. Played with my 10yo daughter and my mother in law. Had everyone engaged and laughing! Great fun for all ages."

★★★★★Verified User Review
iOSUpdated Jan 8, 2026

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Headbands: Charades Party Game icon

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by David Kadlcek

4.6/ 5.0