Brazil is famous for its music, food, and lively celebrations—but another big part of Brazilian culture is the games people love to play together. Whether it’s at a family gathering, a neighborhood get-together, or a casual party with friends, these games bring people together in a fun, energetic way.
Most of these games are easy to start, don’t require special equipment, and often get pretty loud—in the best way possible. All you really need is a group of people ready to laugh, move around, and have a good time.
Here are five traditional Brazilian games you can enjoy with friends and family.
1. Pega-Pega (Brazilian Tag)
Pega-pega is the Brazilian version of tag. One person is “it” and tries to tag another player. Once tagged, that person becomes “it,” and the game continues.
What makes pega-pega especially fun is the number of variations people play. Some versions include safe zones where players can’t be tagged. In others, tagged players have to freeze in place until a teammate touches them to free them.
Although it’s very popular with kids, adults often end up joining once the game gets going.
2. Queimada (Brazilian Dodgeball)
Queimada is similar to dodgeball, but with a unique twist. Players are divided into two teams and try to hit players on the opposing team with a ball. If you get hit, you move behind the other team’s side of the court and can continue throwing the ball from there.
This rule keeps everyone involved and makes the game unpredictable, since players can be attacked from the front or behind.
All you need is a ball and enough space to run around.
3. Jogo da Forca (Hangman)
Jogo da Forca is the classic hangman game, played using Portuguese words. One person chooses a word and writes blank spaces for each letter on paper or a board. The others guess letters, trying to complete the word before the drawing is finished.
This game works especially well for mixed-age groups and is perfect when people want something calm and relaxed. Since no one has to move around, it’s also a great choice for a rainy day.
You can make it more fun by choosing categories like food, movies, or famous places.
4. Stop (Brazilian Categories Game)
Stop—also known as Adedonha—is a fast-paced word game. Players agree on a list of categories, such as names, animals, foods, or cities. A letter is chosen, and everyone writes one word per category that starts with that letter.
As soon as someone finishes filling in all their answers, they shout “Stop!” Everyone else must immediately stop writing, and points are awarded based on valid and unique answers.
The rules are simple, but the game often leads to lively debates over spelling and whether answers really count—which is half the fun.
5. Cinco Marias
Cinco Marias is a traditional hand game played with five small stones. One stone is tossed into the air while the player quickly picks up other stones from the ground before catching the tossed one.
The game tests hand-eye coordination and timing, and it’s trickier than it looks. Most people in Brazil play Cinco Marias as children, but it can still be fun for adults.
Compared to the other games on this list, Cinco Marias is calm and quiet—perfect for moments when people want something less chaotic.
Final Thoughts
Brazilian games are all about being together. They’re easy to start, hard to play quietly, and often end with laughter or playful arguments. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just spending time with friends, these games give everyone a reason to put their phones away and join in.
Pick one, explain the rules, and let the fun begin.
