How to Play Jackbox on TV with Family and Friends? (Ultimate Guide)

Are you ready to elevate your game night experience? If you've ever wondered how to bring the laughter and excitement of Jackbox Games to the big screen, you're in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we'll teach you how to play Jackbox on TV. Whether you're using game consoles, streaming devices, or a simple HDMI cable, we've got you covered. Say goodbye to crowded small screens and hello to the ultimate party atmosphere. Let's get started and level up your Jackbox gaming experience together.

What is Jackbox?

Jackbox Games, an online game provider based in Chicago, is renowned for its popular series, including You Don’t Know Jack and The Jackbox Party Pack. It covers different types of original games like writing games, drawing games, hidden identity games, trivia games, and more. Jackbox Games has released an array of games tailored to engage all players in the classroom, on Zoom calls, or during Twitch streams. All Jackbox games are designed for teens but family-friendly, and they are suitable for kids who are 9 and older to play. The Jackbox games are available on different digital platforms. You can play the games on your PC/Mac, iPad, game consoles like Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and more.

How to Play Jackbox Games on a TV Using Game Consoles?

You can play Jackbox games on a TV through game consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. Here are simple steps:

1. Select Your Console

Ensure your console is connected to the TV and has internet access.

2. Download Jackbox

Go to your console’s digital store (PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, or Nintendo eShop), search for "Jackbox", and purchase or download the game pack you want.

3. Launch the Game

Once installed, open the game on your console. Your TV will display a main screen with a room code.

4. Join the Game

Players use their smartphones or tablets to go to Jackbox.TV on a web browser, enter the room code and join the game.

How to Play Jackbox Games on a TV Using Streaming Devices?

If you're wondering how to play Jackbox games on TV, and you own streaming devices like Google Chromecast or Amazon Firestick, playing Jackbox games on your TV is straightforward. Let's explore how to achieve this with Google Chromecast:

1. Set Up Google Chromecast

Ensure your Google Chromecast device is properly set up and connected to your TV. Your TV should be on and set to the correct HDMI input for the Chromecast.

2. Connect Devices to the Same Wi-Fi Network

Make sure that the device you'll use to run Jackbox Games and your Google Chromecast are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

3. Launch the Jackbox Game

On your device , open the Jackbox game you want to play. You can do this through a web browser if you're playing a version from the Jackbox website, or by launching the game directly if you've purchased it through platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, or the Apple App Store/Google Play Store.

4. Cast the Screen/Game to Your TV

From a Computer: If you’re using a computer, open Google Chrome, click on the three dots in the upper right corner to open the menu, navigate to “Save and Share”, and select “Cast.” Choose your Chromecast device from the list, and then select what you want to share. You can choose to share the entire screen, a window, or just a specific tab. If you're playing the game through a browser, sharing the tab might be the easiest option.

From a Smartphone/Tablet: If you’re using a mobile device, the process might vary depending on the app and your device's operating system. Some devices and apps allow direct casting to a Chromecast by tapping a “Cast” button within the app or from the quick settings panel of the device.

5. Play the Game

Once the game is displayed on your TV, everyone can join in by going to Jackbox.TV on the device’s web browser and entering the room code displayed on the TV screen. No additional apps are needed for the players' devices; they just need a web browser.

Then, follow the game's instructions and have fun playing with your friends or family.

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How to Play Jackbox Games on a TV with HDMI Cable?

Playing Jackbox Games on a TV using an HDMI cable is a fantastic way to enjoy these party games with friends and family. If you're wondering how to play Jackbox on smart TV, here's a step-by-step guide to set things up:

Step 1. Install Jackbox Games

Download and install Jackbox Games on your Windows computer or Mac. 

Step 2. Connect Your Device to the TV

Plug one end of the HDMI cable into your device's HDMI port, and plug the other end into an available HDMI port on your TV.

Step 3. Set Up Your Device

Activate your television and select the HDMI channel as your designated output.

Step 4. Enjoy the Jackbox Games

Then you are able to engage in PC gaming while simultaneously streaming the gameplay on the large screen for others to enjoy!

How to Play Jackbox Games on a TV with an iPad?

Jackbox Games are designed to be party games where only one person needs to own and run the game, while others can participate using their own devices through a web browser. Here's how to set up for playing on your TV through an iPad:

1. Connect Your iPad to Your TV

There are two primary ways to connect your iPad to your TV: wirelessly via AirPlay or using a physical cable and adapter.

Using AirPlay:

• Ensure your Apple TV or AirPlay-compatible TV is on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPad.
• Swipe down from the top-right corner of your iPad to open the Control Center.
• Tap the “Screen Mirroring” button and select your AirPlay-compatible TV from the list.
• Your iPad's screen should now be mirrored to your TV.

Using a Cable and Adapter:

• Purchase an appropriate adapter (e.g., a Lightning to HDMI adapter for newer iPads).
• Connect the adapter to your iPad and then connect an HDMI cable from the adapter to your TV.
• Switch your TV to the correct HDMI input to see your iPad's screen.

2. Launch Jackbox Game

On your iPad, open the Jackbox game you wish to play. You can do this by downloading the Jackbox game from the App Store if you haven't already.

3. Players Join the Game

• Once the game is started on the iPad and displayed on the TV, it will show a room code.
• Players use their own devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc.) to navigate to the Jackbox.tv website in their web browsers.
• They then enter the room code displayed on the TV screen to join the game.

4. Play the Game

Follow the game’s instructions to play. Each game has different rules and gameplay mechanics, but generally, players will interact with the game through their own devices while watching the main action on the TV screen.

Conclusion

Bringing Jackbox games to your TV is a fantastic way to liven up any gathering, offering a blend of happiness, competition, and connectivity. Learning how to play Jackbox on TV can transform your next party into an unforgettable event. Whether you opt for a game console, streaming device, or the simplicity of an HDMI cable, setting up is easy, ensuring you spend less time troubleshooting and more time playing. Get ready to make your next party a hit with Jackbox.