Facebook Gaming Introduces Multiplayer Games on Messenger Video Calls: A New Way to Connect with Friends and Family

Facebook Gaming, a division of Meta, has recently announced the introduction of multiplayer games playable during video calls on Messenger. This new feature aims to offer users an interactive and engaging way to connect with friends and family, adding an extra layer of fun to virtual gatherings. Available on iOS, Android, and the web, users can access 14 free-to-play games at launch. These include popular titles such as Words With Friends, Card Wars, Exploding Kittens, and Mini Golf FRVR.

Accessing Games on Messenger Video Calls

To access the games library and play with others during a video call, users must first initiate a Messenger video call. After tapping the group mode button located in the center of the screen, users can then tap on the "Play" icon to browse the available games. Facebook Gaming notes that a minimum of two people must be present in the video call to play games.

In a blog post, the company expressed its excitement about this new feature: "Facebook Gaming is excited to announce that you can now play your favorite games during video calls on Messenger. This new, shared experience in Messenger makes it easy to play games with friends and family while in a video call, allowing you to deepen connections with friends and family by engaging in conversations and gameplay at the same time."

Expanding the Games Library and Encouraging Developer Participation

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the platform, Facebook Gaming is working on adding more free games throughout the year. The company is also inviting developers who are interested in integrating this feature into their games to get in touch with them. This collaboration between Facebook Gaming and game developers will undoubtedly lead to a more extensive and diverse games library for users to enjoy.

The End of the Standalone Facebook Gaming App

In October 2022, Facebook shut down the standalone Facebook Gaming app. This app had been launched in April 2020, during the early days of the pandemic, as a platform for users to watch their favorite streamers, play instant games, and participate in gaming groups. However, despite its closure, Facebook assured users that they could still access their games, streamers, and gaming groups through the Gaming section within the main Facebook app.

A History of Experimentation with Messenger Games

Facebook has been dabbling with Messenger games for several years, continuously exploring ways to enhance the user experience on its platform. The integration of games into Messenger video calls represents a significant step forward in offering users a quick and easy method to enjoy gaming while connecting with others. The interactive nature of these games is likely to be a welcome addition for users, promoting social interaction and deepening connections with friends and family.

Testing Messenger Inbox Integration in the Facebook App

In addition to the introduction of multiplayer games on Messenger video calls, Facebook recently announced that it is testing the ability for users to access their Messenger inbox within the Facebook app. This move represents a potential reversal of the company's 2016 decision to remove messaging capabilities from its mobile web application, forcing users to download the standalone Messenger app. This decision had been met with widespread dissatisfaction among users, and the current testing could signal a change in Facebook's approach to messaging.

In conclusion, the introduction of multiplayer games on Messenger video calls by Facebook Gaming signifies an exciting new way for users to connect with friends...