Toy Insider Mom Laurie Schacht joined Family Circle Magazine for part of their “25 Days of Play” to talk about the best games for families to laugh together. For more on the items featured in this segment, check out the product notes below, and for our complete rundown of the best gifts for the holidays, check out our complete holiday gift guide.

BEASTS OF BALANCE (SENSIBLE OBJECT)

  • This fun new interactive game combines your favorite aspects of JENGA and Pokemon GO.
  • Beasts of Balance is a true testament to kids’ stacking ability.
  • As you build the tower, connect each piece to the play pilth and watch the creatures come to life in the connected app through innovative AR technology.
  • Physical and digital gaming meet in an interactive cooperative experience.
  • Bringing Augmented Reality to a tabletop format.
  • Great for party games with friends and family.
  • Beautifully designed game pieces.
  • Ages: 7+
  • MSRP: $99
  • Available: Amazon; Specialty, Apple, CE

WHO’S THE DUDE? (IDENTITY GAMES USA)

  • Players can play charades with “The Dude,” a life size inflatable man-doll, while the other players try to guess within the time limit what you and the Dude are doing.
  • Using the charade cards, player act out scenes from a movie, a sport, or a profession.
  • The game includes 440 charade cards, 50 score sheets and different ways to play.
  • Age: 16+
  • MSRP: $24.99
  • Available: Target