Same room
Put the game on a phone, tablet, or TV. Everyone writes privately, then the host runs scoring.
ACategories
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Free online categories game
Play CardYard Categories online
One shared screen gives your group a letter, an original list, a timer, and simple scoring. Free packs work without an account or download.
Looking for a Scattergories®-style game online? CardYard Categories is our independent take, built for quick same-room and remote play.
SCATTERGORIES® is a trademark of Hasbro, Inc. CardYard Categories is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro.
Five quick steps
How to play
- 1Choose teams, a pack, a timer, and your list size.
- 2Give everyone paper or a private notes screen.
- 3Start the round and reveal one letter and one list.
- 4Write one answer per category before time runs out.
- 5Compare answers. Unique valid answers earn one point.
Completed example
One round with B
- Something in a backpack
- Book
- A weekend activity
- Bowling
- A fruit
- Banana
Each answer earns one point if it is valid and no other team wrote the same thing.
Works with your group
Same room, class, or video call
Classroom
Split the class into small teams. Use Family & Kids and agree on spelling rules before the round.
Video call
Share the game window while each player keeps answers off-screen. Read every answer aloud at scoring.
Want more lists?
Browse ready-to-use ideas or jump straight into a holiday round.
Quick answers
CardYard Categories FAQ
Can I play this categories game for free?
Yes. Classic, party, family, and Christmas packs are free and unlimited. Premium adds specialty packs and AI custom topics.
Do players need separate devices?
No. One shared screen shows the letter, original category list, and timer. Players write answers on paper or in their own notes.
How does scoring work?
After the timer, compare answers one category at a time. A valid answer that no other team used earns one point. Duplicate answers earn zero.
Is this the official Scattergories® game?
No. CardYard Categories is an independent categories game and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro.
Can I create my own categories?
Premium members can enter a custom topic and generate a reusable four-round pack around it.
SCATTERGORIES® is a trademark of Hasbro, Inc. CardYard Categories is an independent game and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro.