How To Play Games on TikTok: Discover Delightful Challenges

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Carolyn Howell

Last Updated: Aug 06, 2024

TikTok 101
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You’ve probably seen videos showing creators playing fun interactive TikTok games. Ever wondered where to find these games and how to play games on TikTok? 

Get ready to discover delightful new TikTok challenges and to go head-to-head with your friends! Keep reading to learn more!

A person plays a video game on their smartphone.

Are There Games on TikTok?

Back in 2022, TikTok quietly introduced mini-games to the platform. They brought in HTML5 games to TikTok through integrations with third-party game developers and studios. There were nine games that were initially available to app users in the U.S. and the U.K.

The mini-games were accessible via the Add link feature on the Post page. You had to tap Add link, select a game, and a link to the game would appear with the post. Other users simply had to tap the link to play the game in their own TikTok video. This was part of the platform’s “major push” into gaming, according to a Reuters report

Take note that the TikTok games via the Add link feature are not available to everyone. However, you can do a search for TikTok games to find these playable links. 

Try the keyword “play TikTok games filter.” And then follow these simple steps:

  1. Select the video with your game of choice from the results. 
  2. Tap the link to the game at the bottom of the video. This will take you to the game’s dedicated page on TikTok. 
  3. Tap Use this effect at the bottom. This will take you to the video creation page with the playable effect already applied. 
  4. Start recording to play the game. You can re-record as many times as you like until you get the game results you want before posting. 

Alternatively, if you see a video featuring a game, simply tap the link to the game at the bottom of the video.

How To Play TikTok Games via Effects

You’ll also find fun games via the Effects feature in Create mode on TikTok! You may have to spend a bit of time scrolling through the myriad selections of TikTok Effects. But trying out various options is always a delightful experience. 

Here’s a quick guide:

  1. Tap the Create button and select your desired video duration.
  2. Tap Effects on the left side of the Record button.
  3. Select an Effects category and just tap on one that you want to try. 
  4. Tap the Record button to start the game. Tap the Record button again to stop the game. 
  5. If you don’t like the Effect, tap the X in the top left. If you want to retry the game, tap the X immediately to the right of the Record button, tap Discard, and start over. If you’re happy with the result, tap the Checkmark
  6. Continue editing your video, tap Next, finish your post, then tap Post

How To Play Games on TikTok LIVE

If you’re a gamer, you should definitely know how to play games on TikTok LIVE. TikTok’s gaming community is not as big as what you’ll find on YouTube, Twitch, and other video game streaming platforms. 

But you should still tap into the highly engaged niche communities relevant to your gaming interests. 

You can simply use TikTok’s LIVE feature to live stream a favorite video game you’re playing. If you’ve done video game live streaming before, you probably already have a good setup for it. Just use the same setup to stream your gaming skills and exploits via TikTok LIVE! Take note, however, that you’ll need 1,000 followers to access the LIVE feature and live-stream video games.

The best way to stream a game on TikTok is via a desktop PC. You’ll have more options to integrate another streaming software specifically designed for live streaming games. 

For example, you can do simultaneous streaming via Twitch and TikTok LIVE. Or you can stream on TikTok using Streamlabs on desktop. 

A professional gamer sits in front of a screen and live streams his video game as he plays.

Can I Play Games on TikTok? More Frequently Asked Questions

As with traditional interactive games, app games allow players to interact with the game environment and with other players. 

The interactive capabilities make mini games perfect for social media platforms. They keep users more engaged and encourage them to stay on the platforms longer. 

Let’s answer a few FAQ before you get your game face on, roll your sleeves, and start playing TikTok games. 

Can you play games on TikTok?

Yes! TikTok has added a unique twist to app gaming by integrating games into some of its Effects. 

And users have taken it one step further and turned some of these games into TikTok challenges!

How do I enable TikTok gaming?

Currently, TikTok does not have a dedicated gaming feature or section. When creating a post, you can use an effect that features a mini game. You’ll be creating a video of yourself playing the game. 

You can also create a challenge out of it by inviting your followers to play, as well! 

Where can I find games on TikTok?

You can find and play TikTok games through the platform’s search tool or among its effects. Take note that the availability of current games is not the same for everyone. 

If you see a game link in a video, then you can absolutely play it! 

A green sign on a black wall reads, “Let’s Play.”

Drive Engagement With Games on TikTok

Game streamers can also find a niche community on TikTok! Even if doing dance challenges, lip-syncs, or how-tos is not your thing, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to indulge your interests here. 

For creators and brands, TikTok’s mini games can be a new and fun way to engage your audiences. Explore how to play games on TikTok and just have fun with it! Invite your viewers to try a game to drive higher views and engagement. And if you need more help boosting your visibility and reach, sign up for a High Social plan!

Leverage High Social’s advanced, proprietary AI targeting technology to instantly magnify your audience-targeting power. 

Deliver your content to more feeds of genuinely interested viewers and watch your follower count climb faster. Start growing your TikTok today

TikTok 101