The discussion explores whether Discourse supports online multiplayer mini-games like Go or chess, leveraging native user accounts for features such as leaderboards and lobbies. tom_eric initiates the thread asking for existing plugins or methods to embed interactive two-player games within topics. merefield suggests that no native support exists but proposes using AI to create one, referencing a post on AI artifacts.
satonotdead joins the conversation, expressing interest in games that foster human connection. They share a link to a turn-based board game discussion and later provide a curated list of external game platforms, including Lichess and Out of Context Party. However, merefield clarifies that simply embedding external games via iframes does not meet the requirement, as they do not integrate with Discourse user accounts or ecosystem features. merefield emphasizes that the goal is for games to be sufficiently native to Discourse to support user authentication, leaderboards, and lobbies.
satonotdead clarifies that their suggestions were intended as ideas for adaptation within Discourse, aiming to integrate games with cheer points, badges, and the broader forum ecosystem. Another user, NateDhaliwal, notes the existence of Discourse Frotz, an interactive fiction bot, though it is not multiplayer. The consensus highlights the desire for native integration rather than simple embedding, with members looking for solutions that deeply connect gameplay with Discourse’s social features.
I’m wondering whether Discourse currently supports any kind of online multiplayer mini-games that forum members can play together (for example: Go/Weiqi, Gomoku, simple board games, etc.).
I know Discourse already has real-time chat, so I’m curious whether there are:
existing plugins that provide interactive games, or
recommended ways to embed small HTML5/Web games (iframe, theme components), or
examples of communities that have implemented something similar.
I’m mainly interested in simple two-player games like Go or Gomoku, where two forum users can create a room and play inside a topic or page.
Any suggestions, experience, or plugin links would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!
Could you explain yourself a bit more? Did you visit any of the games I shared?
I’d like to know if any of them meet or don’t meet your requirements and why. I know you’re an experienced Discourse user, and I’m interested in hearing your point of view.
Yes, my point is these should be games that are sufficiently native to Discourse that they can leverage the same user accounts, maintain leaderboards and provide a Discourse based lobby.
Your adless Chess server is a good example of that - but I don’t think that’s a Discourse forum?
Oh, they are just ideas to bring to life in Discourse. I should have clarified it; I thought it would be understood.
I think several of them can be adapted and provide precisely the experience you mention, which I fully agree with. They are fun, classic games, and it would be great to see them linked with cheer points, badges, and the general Discourse ecosystem.
I think Skribbl will always remain my favorite game among friends, just like “charades”
